Lotus Elise S1
Yet more trouble and strife for Mr Fraser, as the Elise fails its MOT emission test
Damnation! The Elise failed its MOT on emissions. Way too high. The guys at the Lotus factory service centre later discovered that the catalytic converter had crumbled, but luckily I found a replacement for £60 via the wonder of internet classified ads.
Back to the MOT centre for a retest and despite heating the cat up as high as I could get it – they work better hot – the emissions machine still gave the thumbs down. As the Lotus guys found no problem with the Lambda probe and CO2 sensor, it’s time for some serious head- scratching to resolve the problem.
Maybe the Elise will be roadworthy in time for the winter weather…
Running Costs
| Date acquired | September 2002 |
| Total mileage | 63,596 |
| Costs this month | £60 (second-hand catalytic converter) |
| Mileage this month | 421 |
| MPG this month | 29.7mpg |
