IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2011 Lotus Evora (S & 400)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2011 Lotus Evora (S & 400). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Clutch Master Cylinder Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Heat from the engine/exhaust boils the fluid and degrades the seals. The pedal will stick to the floor, often requiring a "clam-off" repair.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,000–£1,800
Warning Signs:

Clutch pedal sticks to the floor, Low bite point, Difficulty selecting 1st or Reverse

What to Inspect:
  • Check for fluid leaks in the driver's footwell.
  • Test the pedal feel after the car is hot.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Door Latch & Window Niggles

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The door release mechanisms and window drop functions are prone to failure, often requiring the replacement of the door latch assembly.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900 per door
Warning Signs:

Door won't open from outside, Window doesn't drop when pulling handle, Central locking failure

What to Inspect:
  • Operate both doors and windows multiple times.
  • Check if the window seals correctly against the roof.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Air Conditioning Evaporator Failure

ModerateCooling System

Similar to the Elise, the A/C system is a weak point, with the evaporator being a labor-heavy "dash-out" job to replace.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£2,500
Warning Signs:

A/C blows warm, Musty smell in cabin, Rapid loss of refrigerant

What to Inspect:
  • Confirm the A/C gets properly cold.
  • Check for "re-gas" history (often masking a leak).
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2011 Lotus Evora (S & 400)

  • Check the operation of the clutch on manual models; replacement is an engine-out job and therefore extremely expensive.
  • Test the IPS (automatic) gearbox on a test drive; it is an older torque-converter design and can feel sluggish compared to modern dual-clutch systems.
  • Inspect the interior trim; the leather on the dashboard can shrink and peel away from the backing in hot sun.
  • Verify that the air conditioning works perfectly, as condenser and compressor failures are known issues and costly to fix.
  • Look for any bubbling or cracking in the paintwork on the fibreglass panels, particularly around the edges and joints.
  • Check the Alpine infotainment system, which is often dated and prone to freezing or dropping Bluetooth connections.
Check a 2011 Lotus Evora (S & 400) by Registration