Paint Care; Ventilation - Lotus 2005 Elise Owner's Handbook Manual

NOTICE: The Elise 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 does
not offer the same kind and degree of impact resistance or
energy absorption afforded by conventional U.S. bumper sys-
tems. 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 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 im-
mune 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.
- Abrasion; blowing sand and dust, or a dirty washing cloth.
- Tree sap and insect fluids; can form a water-insoluble polymer
that adheres to the paint.
- Bird excrement; highly acidic or alkaline, they 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 pro-
tection, 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 even-
tually penetrate the paint film. Although the effects will not be
visible immediately, a deterioration in the protective properties
of the paint film will ultimately result.
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