Lotus Elise recalls and problems
6 recalls and 72 owner complaints for 7 model years. Pick your year for full details.
Recalls
6
Complaints
72
Crashes reported
2
Fires reported
2
Choose a model year
Lotus Elise by year
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 Elise | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2010 Elise | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2009 Elise | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2008 Elise | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2007 Elise | 2 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2006 Elise | 1 | 17 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2005 Elise | 2 | 46 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Most reported Lotus Elise problems
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 45 | |
| Engine | 8 | |
| Power Train | 7 | |
| Unknown or Other | 4 | |
| Suspension | 4 | |
| Visibility | 4 | |
| Electrical System | 4 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 2 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 |
All Lotus Elise recalls
| Recall | Date | Years | Component | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14V-280 | May 27, 2014 | 2008–2011 | Engine and Engine Cooling | Lotus Cars USA, Inc. |
| 13V-041 | Feb 5, 2013 | 2007–2008 | Engine and Engine Cooling | Lotus is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Elise and Exige vehicles manufactured from December 1, 2006, through October 31, 2007. |
| 11V-541 | Nov 3, 2011 | 2011 | Exterior Lighting | Lotus is recalling certain model year 2011 elise vehicles manufactured from june 2010, through february 2011, for failing to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard number 108, "lamps… |
| 11V-510 | Oct 14, 2011 | 2005–2007 | Engine and Engine Cooling | Lotus is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 elise and exige vehicles manufactured from june 1, 2004, through november 30, 2006. |
| 09V-179 | May 26, 2009 | 2009 | Wheels | Lotus is recalling 87 model year 2009 elise and exige vehicles manufactured from june 20, 2008 through may 5, 2009. |
| 05V-571 | Dec 29, 2005 | 2005 | Power Train | On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 6-speed manual transmissions, the gear lever may break. |
Frequently asked questions
What is the worst year for the Lotus Elise?
By owner complaints to NHTSA, the 2005 Lotus Elise has the most reports (46). Check the 2005 page for the problems owners describe.
How many recalls does the Lotus Elise have?
NHTSA lists 6 safety recalls covering Lotus Elise model years 2005–2011.
What are the most common Lotus Elise problems?
Owners report engine and engine cooling, engine, power train problems most often.