Lotus 20/20 diagnostic Software

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Lotus 20/20 – Setup and Usage Guide

Overview

Lotus 20/20 is the official diagnostics software for post-MY2008 Lotus vehicles (Elise, Exige V6, Evora, Emira, etc.).
Independent users can access it using a paid subscription.
This page covers installation, hardware requirements, subscriptions, Un/Tested and Confirmed working functions and known issues.

How an Independent User Gets a Lotus 20/20 Login

  1. Go to the Lotus Dealer Portal: https://dealerportal.uslotservice.lotuscars.com/login
  2. Select: Register → Register Independent
  3. Note the email and password used – Lotus 20/20 will ask for these when opening.
  4. Submit the registration.

How to Get a Lotus 20/20 Subscription

  1. Log in to the Dealer Portal using the same email/password.
  2. The subscription must be purchased on the same Windows PC that will run Lotus 20/20.
  3. Click your name (top-right) → Subscriptions → Purchase a Subscription.
  4. Select one of the “Lotus2020 Diagnostics” subscription options.
  5. Payment is via PayPal.
  6. Ensure the OBD2/J2534 interface is already installed and detected.
  7. Once paid, Lotus 20/20 Diagnostics will activate.

Lotus User Guide

Vehicle Service Information (VSI) User Guide:
Log in → Diagnostics → READ ME
Go to the Lotus Dealer Portal: https://dealerportal.uslotservice.lotuscars.com/login Last updated: 29/05/2025

System Requirements

Supported

  • Windows only
  • Confirmed working: Windows 10 Enterprise
  • Other versions may work (untested)

Not Supported

  • MacOS using virtual machines
  • Parallels (not working)
  • UTM (not working)
  • General VM USB pass-through (unreliable)

Reason: Lotus 20/20 uses J2534 USB binding that virtual machines cannot pass through correctly.

Required Hardware (OBD2 / J2534)

J2534 Pass-Thru Interface

A J2534 interface is required for communication with the car.

Cheapest confirmed working option:

Notes:

  • SAE J2534-1 compatible
  • Must be activated with TOPDON software
  • USB connection required

Lotus recommended device:

Lotus 20/20 Installation

1. Install J2534 Application

Download TOPDON RLink software:
https://www.topdon.com/pages/pro-down?fuzzy=RLink%20J2534

  1. Install RLink Assistant
  2. Plug RLink into vehicle OBD2 port
  3. Turn ignition ON
  4. Connect USB cable (device will beep)
  5. Run RLink Assistant to activate and bind
  6. Battery voltage displayed when connected

2. Install Lotus 20/20 Software

  1. Log in to Dealer Portal
  2. Diagnostics → Software Download
  3. Download ZIP under “01. Software”
  4. Extract the ZIP
  5. Run: Getac → LotusInstaller → setup.exe

3. First Use

  • Ensure the J2534 tool is activated
  • Lotus 20/20 will auto-detect the interface
  • Subscription must already be active on this PC

Subscription Details

  • Available as hourly, daily, or annual subscription
  • Subscription is locked to the specific PC hardware
  • Locked to the specific Windows installation
  • Hardware changes or reinstall may require re-authorisation

Support Contacts

Main technical support email:
LTIL.EmiraSupport@eu.lotuscars.com

Non-responsive email: (this is the email suggested in the supporting documentation and on the Lotus Dealer Portal)
diagnostics@lotuscars.com

Customer Care:
+44 (0) 330 094 8047
ukcustomercare@eu.lotuscars.com

Tested and Confirmed Working Functions

Tested

  • Read engine/ABS/SRS fault codes
  • Clear DTCs
  • Steering Angle Sensor (SAS) calibration

Documented functions (untested mix)

1. Live Data Monitoring

Examples: misfires, trims, O2 sensors, coolant temp, MAP/MAF, throttle position, idle behaviour.

2. Throttle Body / DBW Adaptation

Used after throttle body replacement, ECU reset, intake changes, or battery disconnect.

3. ABS / Traction Control Diagnostics

  • Wheel speed sensors
  • Brake pressure sensor
  • Yaw / lateral-G sensor
  • ABS pump/valve tests (model dependent)

4. Steering Angle Sensor Calibration

Required after wheel alignment, steering wheel removal, or clockspring replacement.

5. Airbag / SRS Diagnostics

Read and clear airbag and pretensioner faults.

6. Fuel Pump and Cooling Fan Tests

Used for diagnosing overheating and no-start conditions.

7. Full Vehicle Scan

  • ECU
  • ABS/DPM
  • SRS
  • Body Control Module
  • Immobiliser
  • CANbus network

8. Immobiliser and Key Status

Shows whether the key is recognised and ECU/immobiliser sync status.

9. CANbus Network Diagnostics

Detects module communication issues and wiring problems.

Notes and Known Issues

  • USB hubs and adapters can cause dropouts
  • Some coding functions remain dealer-only
  • After switching vehicles: key-cycle and re-scan
  • Disable laptop sleep mode during diagnostics

Troubleshooting

Lotus 20/20 does not detect the J2534 interface

  • Ensure RLink Assistant is running
  • Use a direct USB 2.0 port
  • Avoid USB hubs or adapters
  • Verify RLink activation
  • Ignition must be ON
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