Lotus M111 Elise, Elise 111S, Exige & 340R Service Notes (1996-2002) - Comprehensive Maintenance & Repair Sports Car Manual

Lotus M111 Elise Professional Service & Repair Manual

This is the definitive technical resource for the Lotus M111 Elise and its high-performance derivatives. Spanning the production years from 1996 to 2002, this manual is the essential guide for owners, restorers, and technicians who require factory-level precision for maintenance and complex repairs.

The M111 series represents a revolution in sports car engineering, centered around its pioneering bonded-aluminum chassis. This manual provides exhaustive data to maintain the structural integrity and world-class handling that define the Lotus brand.

Comprehensive Model Coverage

This documentation provides specific technical data and service procedures for the following models and special editions:

• Elise (1996-2002)
• Sport 135 (1998-1999)
• 50th Anniversary Elise (1999)
• Elise 111S (1999-2002)
• Elise 'JPS' (1999)
• Elise 'Type 49' (1999)
• Elise 'Millennium' (1999)
• Elise 340R (2000)
• Sport 160 (2000)
• Exige (2000-2002)

Professional Technical Insights

Go beyond basic maintenance with in-depth sections derived directly from Lotus factory specifications:

• Chassis & Bodywork: Detailed instructions for the unique bonded and riveted aluminum alloy chassis. Includes specialized repair procedures using Betaseal and Betamate adhesives to maintain the safety-critical front glass fiber "crash structure."
• Engine Performance: Complete technical data for the Rover K-Series (18K4F) and the high-output VVC (18K4K) engines. Includes valve timing, cylinder head specifications, and cooling system management.
• Suspension Geometry: Exact settings for front and rear suspension alignment. Covers camber, castor, and crucial "bump steer" adjustments, including the transition from early alloy to later forged steel rear hub carriers.
• Braking Systems: Data for early aluminum metal matrix discs and the later conversion to cast iron braking systems (introduced circa June 1998).
• Transmission: Service notes for the 5-speed manual transaxle, including both standard and close-ratio versions found in the 111S and Exige.

Identification & Serial Numbers

For accurate part sourcing and vehicle verification, this manual provides the full breakdown of the 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.):

• V.I.N. Location: Stamped on the chassis in the right-hand rear wheelarch and printed on a label in the front services compartment.
• Year Coding (Character 10): T (1996), V (1997), W (1998), X (1999), Y (2000), 1 (2001), 2 (2002).
• Model Coding (Character 13): 0/3 (Elise), 6 (340R), 8 (Exige).
• Engine Number: Located on the forward face of the cylinder block (best viewed with a mirror).

Key Features

• Exploded Diagrams: High-quality visual aids for every major assembly.
• Step-by-Step Procedures: Professional guidance for removing clamshells, doors, and powertrain components.
• Torque Specifications: Precise Nm values for all critical fasteners to ensure safe reassembly of alloy components.
• Maintenance Schedules: Factory-recommended service intervals and lubrication charts.

Protect your investment and master the mechanics of your Lotus with this professional-grade service manual. Whether you are performing a simple oil change or a full suspension refresh, this guide ensures every task is completed to factory standards.