Lotus Cars is a British automotive company headquartered in Norfolk, England. It manufactures sports cars and racing cars noted for their light weight and fine handling characteristics. Lotus was previously involved in Formula One racing, via Team Lotus, winning the Formula One World Championship seven times.

Automobile Troubleshooting

Ticking or squealing 
Hearing a rapid tick or prolonged squeal can indicate an issue with a belt under the hood. A loose timing belt can tick as it slips over the pulleys that connect it to the camshaft and crankshaft. Squealing, especially when turning the steering wheel, is often caused by a stretched-out power steering belt or a failing power steering pump. However, a high-pitched squeal when you push the brakes probably means that the pads are worn out. Brake pads have a wear indicator that comes into contact with the rotor as the pad material wears away, letting you know it's time for a new set.  

Vibrating or shaking  
Numerous issues can cause shakes and vibrations, so make sure to inspect them all before coming to a conclusion. First up, check your wheels and tires. It could be that they're misaligned or out of balance, reducing your handling and fuel economy while increasing tire wear. A lug nut could be loose, too. Worn mounts won't hold the engine or transmission tight against the frame, leading to vibrations. Failing suspension can also vibrate since it can't work as well to dampen the normal impacts your car experiences. Warped brake rotors will vibrate whenever you touch the pedal. Problems with engine timing can also cause serious shaking. If all that checks out, inspect the bolts that mount your seat to the floor.  

Overheating  
If you have been driving for a few years, it is pretty safe to say that you have seen someone pulled over on the side of the road with smoke coming from their engine – this is caused by overheating. Thankfully, nowadays, overheating doesn’t occur as often as you may think. In most modern cars, the cooling systems are very complex, containing multiple sensors that monitor coolant temperature, flow, and other components. However, two easy ways to further reduce the potential for overheating issues are staying on top of radiator flush services and maintenance, as well as making sure to change the water pump before it breaks. 

Battery  
If your Lotus will not start but click, the problem most likely involves a weak battery that isn't able to turn the starter motor. As a result, electrical consumers may work properly, such as lights, but the car will not start turning the key. Depending on the battery charge level, the starter motor will turn very slowly or crank at all but clicks. If your Lotus won't start but clicks, check the battery.  There are several possible causes of a situation like this. The battery itself may be failing and not able to hold a charge. Depending on the outside climate and running conditions, they last between two and five years.  

Poor Fuel Economy  
When the engine is running efficiently, it burns fuel at a rate that helps improve fuel economy. However, several fuel system parts like fuel filters, air filters, mass airflow sensors, and O2 sensors will eventually get dirty or wear out. If this happens before they are replaced, it will cause the engine to consume more fuel than usual. Again, being proactive about routine servicing provides the solution.  

Brakes Squeaking or Grinding  
Like any other moving part on your car, the brake system is intended to wear out over a designated period. Brakes are vital for safe stopping, so when they display any symptoms of issues, like squealing, squeaking, or a soft brake pedal – they should be inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. While minor problems can cause squeaking or squealing noises, once the brakes start grinding, it’s a definite sign they need to be replaced.  

SOURCE: https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/top-12-most-common-car-problems-and-issues