IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Lotus Exige V6

Exige transitions to V6 power with supercharged 345bhp 3.5-litre Toyota 2GR-FE engine, widened track, lengthened wheelbase, dynamic Lotus DPM drive modes, and aggressive rear aerodynamic wing.

What changed for 2012

  • •Mid-mounted 3.5-litre supercharged Toyota 2GR-FE V6 engine producing 345bhp
  • •Chassis wheelbase stretched by 70mm and track widened significantly over four-cylinder Exige
  • •Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) system with switchable Sport and Race modes
  • •AP Racing four-piston brake callipers clamping 350mm ventilated and grooved discs

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Hairline cracking around rear hub carrier upright castings on hard-tracked early cars
  • !Excessive play in heavy-duty rear toe links and spherical suspension joints
  • !Severely worn brake pads and heat-grooved discs from aggressive circuit use
3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Clutch Master Cylinder Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Like the Evora, the Exige V6 can suffer from a sticking clutch pedal due to heat-soak failing the internal seals.

Est. Repair Cost: £800–£1,500
Warning Signs:

Pedal sticking to floor, Difficulty shifting when hot

What to Inspect:
  • Test clutch operation thoroughly during a spirited test drive.
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Suspension Joint & Toe Link Wear

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Track use accelerates wear on ball joints and rear toe links. A nervous chassis ruins the Exige experience.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Knocking over bumps, Instability at high speed, Uneven tyre wear

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect suspension joints for play.
  • Check alignment records.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Rear Upright Cracking

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The rear hub carriers/uprights on V6 Exiges have been known to crack, particularly on track-used cars. Lotus later redesigned the part with reinforced material. Failure can be catastrophic and life-threatening at speed.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,000 (pair, upgraded parts)
Warning Signs:

Visible cracks around hub carrier, Unsettled rear-end handling, Clicking or clunking from rear

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect rear uprights for hairline cracks, especially around the bearing housing.
  • Ask if upgraded (reinforced) uprights have been fitted.
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2012 Lotus Exige V6

  • Check rear hub uprights thoroughly to ensure updated reinforced factory castings are fitted
  • Test clutch pedal feel when fully hot; sticking pedal indicates heat-soaked master cylinder
  • Examine exhaust manifolds and rear clamshell heat shielding for thermal damage or fatigue cracks
2013–2014
Check a 2012 Lotus Exige V6 by Registration