Vehicle recall 78V238000 · October 24, 1978

1978-1979 Lotus Esprit

The involved vehicles are equipped with a tube which is used to connect a filter component in the fuel system.

Source: NHTSA data as of September 22, 2026. Last refreshed Sep 23, 2026, 2:43 AM UTC.

Summary: The involved vehicles are equipped with a tube which is used to connect a filter component in the fuel system. This tube could become damaged as a result of exposure to abnormally high ambient temperatures and the action of certain fuels. The damaged tube could allow fuel leakage to occur.
Remedy: Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the fuel system tubing without charge to owner.
Notes: Vehicle description: passenger vehicles.system: fuel; lines, tubes.consequences of defect: if fuel leakage occurs and an ignition source ispresent, a vehicle fire and serious injuries to vehicle occupants may result.note: should fuel leakage occur prior to repairs, the engine should be switchedoff immediately.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign: 78V238000
Reported to NHTSA: October 24, 1978
Filed by: LOTUS CARS OF AMERICA INC
Vehicles potentially affected: 146
Initiated by: the manufacturer
Components: Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings

Recall 78V238000 on nhtsa.gov, with the manufacturer’s documents

Vehicles covered

As listed by NHTSA. A recall usually covers only some vehicles of each model and year, often a production date range.

Lotus Esprit (1978-1979): 1979, 1978

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