Buying a lotus, should I be worried, would you be?

Buying a lotus, should I be worried, would you be?

Author
Discussion

wessexrfc

4,326 posts

185 months

Friday 12th October 2012
quotequote all
justin220 said:
Utter garbage. Why would a 30k mile car need a clutch replaced?

Lotus has a huge support network behind it and loads of specialists. Warranty may be an issue though if they do go under. Buy one thats had all the initial niggles ironed out.

Or a 997GT3?
Do you know the hours required to change the clutch????it might surprise you! I'm not saying it's a problem area, but if you buy a car that's had a harder than average life, this could bite if needed. As with any second hand car, get it all checked over

P155flaps

556 posts

142 months

Friday 12th October 2012
quotequote all
I have an Evora, purchased in March and had same concerns then but decided to take the risk. Awesome car, I have had a few niggles ironed out under warranty and my localish dealer close! IMHO lotus are the best manufacturer for warranty claims I have ever had (includes Honda, Porsche, Ford etc). Never a single gripe or try to wriggle out like the others.

The clutch change is a big job and labour is circa 30 hours as its a complete rear clam off and then engine out.

Just man up and go for it you will love the car and if they do go bust I would imagine prices will go up (residuals already seem strong on 2nd hand cars).

wessexrfc

4,326 posts

185 months

Friday 12th October 2012
quotequote all
Ok, it looks to me, as I do a quick search that the clutch debate is a bit sensitive.
http://www.thelotusforums.com/forums/topic/39444-c...
I was told it was around the thirty hrs to change, maybe you guys can confirm/deny??? Either way it's a arse of a job IF required. OP asked what to look out for if buying I'd say this would be a good place to start.
Please note I'm not anti Lotus as my garage might confirm.

wessexrfc

4,326 posts

185 months

Friday 12th October 2012
quotequote all
P155flaps said:
I have an Evora, purchased in March and had same concerns then but decided to take the risk. Awesome car, I have had a few niggles ironed out under warranty and my localish dealer close! IMHO lotus are the best manufacturer for warranty claims I have ever had (includes Honda, Porsche, Ford etc). Never a single gripe or try to wriggle out like the others.

The clutch change is a big job and labour is circa 30 hours as its a complete rear clam off and then engine out.

Just man up and go for it you will love the car and if they do go bust I would imagine prices will go up (residuals already seem strong on 2nd hand cars).
You beat me to it!!!
Meet this Sunday if you are about??

justin220

5,331 posts

203 months

Saturday 13th October 2012
quotequote all
wessexrfc said:
Ok, it looks to me, as I do a quick search that the clutch debate is a bit sensitive.
http://www.thelotusforums.com/forums/topic/39444-c...
I was told it was around the thirty hrs to change, maybe you guys can confirm/deny??? Either way it's a arse of a job IF required. OP asked what to look out for if buying I'd say this would be a good place to start.
Please note I'm not anti Lotus as my garage might confirm.
30 hours is about right. If its failed for a design or installation fault then it will be covered by warranty. People seem to think an Evora will go through a clutch like a Lambo/Ferrari. It won't!

EB89

799 posts

190 months

Sunday 14th October 2012
quotequote all
David87 said:
EB89 said:
You're not going on the 31st are you?
Well yes, I'm supposed to be. hehe
Me too, thats all. Currently just booked in for the factory tour. But thinking about upgrading to the driving experience.

crossy67

1,570 posts

178 months

Sunday 14th October 2012
quotequote all
kambites said:
Have you ever actually heard of parts availability being a problem when a manufacturer goes under? I don't think I have.
You try telling that to all the Rover owners that had their 75's written off because the back windows went obsolete. The supply issues have improved a bit but some glass is still not available. Windscreens have never been a problem.

I can't see there being the problem with a Lotus though, there fill always be fanatics wanting to keep special cars on the road.