2014 Lotus Elise 1.6L Petrol · KX14 FBE

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT following the May 2026 test at 74,882 miles, but the maintenance trend shows a persistent issue with suspension components. While the car passed its most recent inspection, the tester flagged corrosion on all four coil springs. This represents a worsening trend in structural component degradation, as the April 2025 test specifically noted corrosion on both front and rear coil springs. The presence of a stone chip on the offside windscreen in the latest test suggests minor cosmetic wear, but the recurring corrosion issues indicate a systemic pattern of degradation in the suspension assembly. The recorded mileage of 74,882 miles over a twelve-year period averages approximately 6,240 miles per year. This usage pattern is consistent with a low-to-moderate mileage vehicle, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy daily commuting. However, the gap between the February 2023 test at 56,358 miles and the January 2024 failure at 64,659 miles shows an accumulation of over 8,000 miles in less than a year, which is a notable uptick compared to the long-term average. This period of higher usage coincides with several mechanical advisories and failures, including worn tyres and a coolant leak. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system. The repeated mentions of coil spring corrosion from January 2024 through to May 2026 suggest that the springs may be nearing the end of their reliable service life. Beyond the springs, the brake history requires scrutiny. The January 2024 failure for thin brake pads, followed by the April 2024 advisories for pitted and scored brake discs, indicates that the braking system has undergone significant wear. The inspection should also address the history of fluid leaks and lighting issues. The February 2023 record noted a coolant leak, which warrants a check for any residual signs of thermal management issues or weeping hoses. While the lighting failures noted in early 2024 appear to have been resolved, the recurring nature of the corrosion and the previous brake disc wear suggest that while the vehicle is roadworthy, it has required consistent attention to address consumable and structural degradation.