Paint Care; Ventilation - Lotus ELISE 2007 Owner's Handbook Manual

NOTICE: The Elise/Exige is not equipped with conventional
separate shock absorbing bumpers, so extra care should be
taken when parking to guard against body damage. The Lotus
Elise/Exige does not offer the same kind and degree of impact
resistance or energy absorption afforded by conventional U.S.
bumper systems. Care is also required, due to the low ground
clearance, to guard against car underside damage caused by
ramps, kerbs and road humps.

Paint Care

The acrylic enamel finish of the Lotus Elise/Exige is extremely
resistant to all normal forms of atmospheric attack. Following
the simple maintenance procedure summarised below will help
retain the gloss, colour and protective properties of the paint
throughout the life of the car. However, car finishes are not
immune to damage and amongst the more common causes of
deterioration are:
- Atmospheric contaminants; Dust, soot, ash, and acidic or
alkaline aerosol mist can chemically attack paint.
- Fluid spillage; Contamination with brake fluid, anti-freeze,
solvents or other fluids can cause paint reaction.
- Abrasion; Blowing sand and dust, or a dirty washing cloth.
- Tree sap and insect fluids; These can form a water-insoluble
polymer that adheres to the paint.
- Bird excrement; Highly acidic or alkaline, this can chemically
etch the paint. Wash off immediately.
- Leaves; contain tannic acid which can stain light finishes.
- Impact damage; Granite chippings thrown up from poor
or recently dressed road surfaces can subject the body to
severe localised impact, and result in paint chips, especially
around the vulnerable frontal panels. Do not follow other cars
too closely in such circumstances. For optimum paintwork
protection, Lotus recommends the use of a self adhesive film
kit which your dealer will be pleased to supply and/or fit.
- Moisture entrapment; Long term use of a non-breathable
car cover can trap moisture and/or induce condensation and
promote water penetration of the paint film.

Ventilation

Water lying on the paint surface for a lengthy period will
eventually penetrate the paint film. Although the effects will not
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