What it does
The yellow relay is a start inhibit module. It lets the dash starter button work, and once the engine is running it stops the button engaging the starter. It is listed as K14 (one owner said the wiring diagram calls it K24, so go by the part number). It is a Lotus part made by Meta, with a red sticker, and it isn't a standard relay. See Relays and fuses (NA) for the other relays.
Where it is
In the boot, with the other relays. One owner found a loose wire at the back of it, which is reached with the rear wheel arch liner out (see Flat battery and charging system).
When it stops working
- The starter button does nothing, or you only hear a click, and the car won't crank. Owners said the internals are moisture sensitive, and old ones are now failing.
- Check the basics first. Owners cleaned the relay and connectors with WD-40 and the starting came back (2011). One owner whose new relay didn't work found the real fault was pins pushed back inside the relay socket (2020).
- You can't buy a new one any more (Lotus B116M0032F, Vauxhall 9197914, Meta A116M0032).
- Some owners rewired the socket for an ordinary grey relay, which works but removes the protection, so pressing the starter button with the engine running can then engage the starter.
Where to get a replacement
A plug-and-play replacement, the "Big Yellow", is made by hand in the Netherlands. It comes with a white "Dutch" sticker rather than the original red one. In 2020 the makers said they had sold more than 40 across Europe with one complaint, and owners reported it worked first time in a supercharged car and a 2005 Turbo. The 2020 price was 130 euros plus 13 euros postage. They make batches of 10 to 20, so ask what is in stock.
To order one, email portegies.joop@gmail.com.
If you have an aftermarket illuminated starter button, its lamp can trigger the Dutch relay so the engine cranks when you turn the key. An owner fixed it by taking the lamp's ground off.