Engine Description
The 1.8 litre 16 valve four cylinder engine used in the Lotus Elise is supplied by Rover Group, and is designated ‘K16’.
Maintenance Operations
The engine oil level should be checked regularly, such as every two or three fuel stops, and the oil level maintained near the top mark on the dipstick.
Engine oil change is crucial for engine longevity and sustained performance. Adhere strictly to the engine oil and filter change intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule.
Engine Oil Level Check
Check the oil level when the oil is warm, such as during a fuel stop. Ensure that the car is parked on a level surface and that a few minutes have elapsed since stopping the engine to allow oil to drain back into the sump.
Oil Filler Cap & Dipstick
If topping up is necessary, remove the oil filler cap from the cam cover; and in order to allow the crankcase to ventilate, remove the dipstick.
Engine Oil Change
Refill with a recommended lubricant via the oil filler on the camshaft cover; to the top mark on the dipstick.
Oil Filter & Drain Plug
The oil filter is horizontally mounted at the front of the engine, and is accessible from beneath after removal of the engine bay undershield.
Air Cleaner Element
The air filter should be inspected at intervals dependent on the operating conditions.
Alternator Belt
A single multi-rib type belt is used to transmit drive from the crankshaft to the alternator: The belt requires no periodic maintenance other than a visual check of its condition.
Spark Plugs
The ignition system uses a distributorless ignition system (DIS) which employs a pair of double ended ignition coils and a ‘waste spark’ system.
Manual:
Download: Lotus Service Notes Section EG for Elise 2001MY and Onwards
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