I have tried a number of different cold air intakes for my 2005 Lotus Elise, and while I loved the sound and performance, I have been plagued by the infamous P0171 code that accompanies the inevitable check engine light.
Finally I decided to take matters into my own hand a develop my own solution. The conventional wisdom was that the aftermarket cold air intakes modified the intake pipe size, and MAF sensor location just enough to confuse the Elise’s fragile ECU. This seemed to make sense, as I did have varying success with the aftermarket units, my last one was a simple pipe with a K&N filter clamped on the end. However, the pipe had a slightly larger bore size than the stock air-box.
So, what was my solution? It was simple, I purchased a used Exige air-box and carefully cut-out the enclosed air-pipe using a sharp sawzall and some pliers to clean up the ends. Go slow and take your time. Once you have it removed, find a K&N filter that will fit the end of the pipe, and clamp it down solid. I think you will find that it will solve any CEL issues you may have had, you can say goodbye to P071 for good!
This includes complete listing of all parts for your Lotus Elise and/or Exige.
This parts list covers the Elise range, 2001 model year onwards. The manual is arranged in function groups, as defined by the Contents page, and may sometimes use several versions of the same function group to accommodate model variations – take care to establish the full vehicle specification in order to properly identify the applicable parts list section.
Lotus officially announced the new Evora, previously known by the code name Eagle. This is the first all new Lotus since the Elise made its debut in 1995. Currently, this is the world’s only 2+2 mid-engine sports car. Although, Lotus is careful to warn that the back seats are only suitable for children or those with very small legs.
This Lotus still retains its sporting heritage, however much attention has been made to make it a more practical and comfortable car. Those familiar with the Elise/Exige are familiar with the contortions required to enter and exit the vehicle. The new Evora has wider and taller door openings, and the sills are narrower, making it easier to slide over.
Similar to other Lotus, it is mid-engine, and lightweight, although at 2976 pounds, it tips the scales at almost 1000 pounds more than the svelte Elise/Exige. To help propel that increased weight, a Toyota 3.5-liter V-6 is stuffed behind the passenger cabin. This engine churns out 276 horsepower and 252-lb-ft of torque. That is enough to push the car from 0-60MPH in five seconds with a top speed of around 160MPH.
While clearly not as sporting as the Elise/Exige, which are essentially street-legal race cars, the Evora will help lure those who are used to comfortable sports cars such as the Porsche Cayman. The classy styling, lower price (~60K), and exclusivity may help steer younger would-be Porsche customer into a Lotus.
A fellow named QBall had a very unfortunate experience with his Lotus Elise.
More details here
If you have a Lotus Elise/Exige, make sure you follow the directions below carefully.
