IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2004–2010 Lotus Elise S2 (Toyota-engined)

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2004–2010 Lotus Elise S2 (Toyota-engined). 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Rear Toe Link Wear/Failure

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The standard toe links can fail under high stress, leading to a sudden loss of control.

Most affected: 111R, Exige S2, SC

Estimated cost: £400–£800Affects: 2004–2010

Typical symptoms

  • •Nervous rear-end handling
  • •Uneven tyre wear
  • •Knocking from rear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for uprated toe link kits (e.g., Spitfire or Eliseparts).

2ZZ-GE Oil Starvation on Track

SeriousEngine

The 2ZZ-GE engine is prone to oil starvation during high lateral G cornering, which can wipe cam lobes and damage bearings. Sump baffles are essential for track use.

Most affected: 111R, SC, Exige S2

Estimated cost: £500–£2,000Affects: 2004–2010Often appears around: 20,000–40,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Metallic debris in oil
  • •Loss of top-end power
  • •Tapping noise from camshaft

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for sump baffle kit (e.g., Hangar 111).
  • ✓Perform oil analysis for metal content.

Radiator End-Tank Failure

ModerateCooling System

The original plastic-ended radiators leak at the seams. Replacement requires "clam-off" labor.

Most affected: All S2 Toyota models

Estimated cost: £600–£950Affects: 2004–2010

Typical symptoms

  • •Sweet smell of coolant
  • •Steam from the front grilles
  • •Slow coolant loss

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Look for staining on the radiator core.
  • ✓Verify if an all-aluminum radiator is fitted.

Gearbox Synchro Wear (C64)

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The Toyota C64 6-speed gearbox is a known weak point, particularly 2nd and 3rd gear synchros. Hard driven cars, especially supercharged variants, suffer premature wear.

Most affected: SC, Exige S2

Estimated cost: £800–£1,500Affects: 2004–2010

Typical symptoms

  • •Crunching on 2-3 change
  • •Difficult gear engagement when cold
  • •Gearbox whine

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test all gear changes when cold and hot.
  • ✓Check for Toyota recall on shift mechanism.

Buying Tips for the 2004 Lotus Elise S2 (Toyota-engined)

  • ✓Ensure the radiator has been upgraded to an alloy unit.
  • ✓Check rear toe links for play; they are a known failure point on hard-driven cars.
  • ✓Inspect the chassis for galvanic corrosion at the suspension pickups.

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Other Lotus Elise S2 (Toyota-engined) Year Periods

2004–2010

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