GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
6
THE ALFA ROMEO
CODE SYSTEM
To increase protection against attempted
theft, the car is fitted with an electronic
engine lock system (Alfa Romeo CODE)
which is activated automatically when the
key is removed from the ignition. In fact
the grip of each key contains an electron-
ic device which modulates the radio fre-
quency signal transmitted when the
engine is started by a special aerial incor-
porated in the ignition switch. This modu-
lated signal is the “password” by which
the control unit recognises the key and
only in this condition can the engine be
started.
KEYS
Two keys are delivered together with the
car (A-fig. 2) with metal insert and
remote control function.
The key remote control operates:
– centralised door unlocking/locking
– tailgate opening
– electronic alarm on/off (if existing)
– window unlocking/locking (on ver-
sions/markets where provided).
G G
E E
T T
T T
I I
N N
G G
T T
O O
K K
N N
O O
W W
Y Y
O O
U U
R R
C C
A A
R R
fig. 2
A0A0002b
fig. 1
A0A00621b
SYMBOLS
On some of the components making up
your
Alfa GT, or near to them, special
coloured labels have been attached. These
labels bear symbols that remind you of the
precautions to be taken as regards that
particular component.
A summary list of the symbols (fig.1) is
to be found under the bonnet.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
11
ELECTRONIC ALARM
DESCRIPTION
The system comprises: a transmitter,
receiver, control unit with siren and volu-
metric sensors. The electronic alarm is
controlled by the receiver incorporated in
the instrument cluster and it is turned on
and off by the remote control in the key
which sends the crypted and variable
code. The electronic alarm controls: the
unlawful opening of doors, bonnet and
boot (perimetral protection), operation of
the ignition key, battery cable cutting, the
presence of moving bodies in the passen-
ger compartment (volumetric protection),
any abnormal raising/sloping of the car
(for versions/markets where applicable)
and central door locking. It also makes it
possible to cut off the volumetric protec-
tion.
IMPORTANTThe engine inhibitor
function is guaranteed by the Alfa Romeo
CODE system which is activated automati-
cally when the ignition key is removed.The remote control is incorporated in the
key with buttons (B, C, D-fig. 6) which
activate the corresponding control and
send the code to the receiver. This code
(rolling code) changes at each transmis-
sion.
REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL
KEYS WITH REMOTE CONTROL
The receiver can recognise up to 5 keys
with incorporated remote control. Should
a new key with remote control be neces-
sary for any reason during the life of the
car, contact directly Alfa Romeo Authorised
Services, taking with you the CODE card,
a personal identity document and the car’s
ownership documents.
HOW TO ACTIVATE THE
ALARM
With the doors, bonnet and boot shut
and the ignition key in the STOPor
PARKposition (key removed), point the
key with the remote control in the direction
of the car, then press and release the but-
ton (C-fig. 6).
With the exception of certain markets,
the system sounds a “beep” and the
doors are locked.
Engagement of the alarm is preceded by
a self-diagnostic test indicated by a differ-
ent flashing frequency of the deterrent led
(A-fig. 7) on the dashboard. If a fault is
detected the system sounds a further
warning “beep”.
fig. 6
A0A0601b
fig. 7
A0A0005b
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
13
WHEN THE ALARM
IS TRIGGERED
When the system is on, the alarm comes
into action in the following cases:
– opening of one of the doors, bonnet or
tailgate;
– disconnection of the battery or sec-
tioning of electric cables;
– intrusion in the passenger compart-
ment, for example breakage of windows
(volumetric protection);
– attempt to start the engine (key in
MARposition);
– abnormal car lifting/sloping (for ver-
sions/markets where applicable).
Depending on the markets, the cutting in
of the alarm causes operation of the siren
and hazard warning ligths (for about 26
seconds). The ways of operating and the
number of cycles may vary depending on
the markets.
A maximum number of cycles is howev-
er envisaged.
Once the alarm cycle has ended, the sys-
tem resumes its normal control function.
VOLUMETRIC PROTECTION
To make sure that the protection system
works correctly the side windows and sun-
roof (if fitted) must be properly shut.
The function can be cut off (if, for exam-
ple, leaving animals in the car) carrying
out the following operations in rapid suc-
cession: starting from the condition with
the ignition key at MAR, move the key
toSTOP, then immediately back to
MARand then to STOPagain, then
remove the ignition key.
The deterrent led (A-fig. 7) on the
dashboard lights up for about 2 seconds to
confirm that the function has been cut off.
To restore volumetric protection, move
the and keep the ignition key at MARfor
over 30 seconds.
If, with the volumetric protection func-
tion deactivated, an electric control con-
trolled by the ignition key at MAR(e.g.
power windows) turn the ignition key to
MAR, operate the control and move the
key to STOPin a maximum time of 30
seconds. This way volumetric protection is
not restored.
HOW TO CUT OFF
THE ALARM SYSTEM
To deactivate the alarm system com-
pletely (for instance during prolonged
inactivity of the vehicle) simply lock the
car turning the key in the lock.
MINISTERIAL CERTIFICATION
In accordance with the law in force in
each country, on the subject of radio fre-
quency, we wish to point out that for the
markets in which the transmitter needs to
be marked, the certification number is
given on the component.
Depending on the versions/markets, the
code may also be given on the transmitter
and/or on the receiver.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
52
DASHBOARD
(As concerns right-hand drive versions, see dashboard and instrument panel controls described in the dedicated paragraph at the end of this
manual)
1. Side swivel air vents - 2. Fixed side window air vents - 3. Outer light control lever - 4. Speedometer with mileage recorder and trip recorder and headlamp
aiming display - 5. Fuel level gauge with reserve warning light - 6. Multifunction display - 7. Engine coolant fluid temperature gauge - 8. Rev counter - 9. Tail-
gate release button - 10. Car holder (for versions/markets where applicable) - 11. Radio (for versions/markets where applicable) - 12. Centre swivel air
vents - 13. Fixed upper vent - 14. Glass holder (for versions/markets where applicable) - 15. Fog lamp button - 16. Hazard warning light switch - 17. Rear
fog guard button - 18. Passenger’s front Air bag - 19. Glove-box - 20. Door locking button - 21. Controls for heating, ventilation and climate control - 22. Cig-
ar lighter/ashtray cover - 23. Temperature sensor - 24. Windscreen wiper control lever - 25. Ignition key and switch - 26. Horn - 27. Steering wheel lock-
ing/release lever - 28. Driver’s front Air bag - 29. Set of controls: trip meter reset, headlamp aiming device, trip computer - 30. Bonnet opening lever.
fig. 67
A0A0618b
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
147fig. 149
A0A0707b
Do this only with the car
stationary.
DANGER-SERIOUS IN-
JURY. When carrying out
checks or maintenance op-
erations in the engine compart-
ment, take special care not to bump
the head on the raised bonnet.
If checks are needed in
the engine compartment,
when it is still hot, do not
approach the fan: it might start
working also with the ignition key
removed. Wait for the engine to
cool down.
BONNET
The bonnet opening lever is under the left
end of the dashboard.
To open:
– pull the lever (A-fig. 148) until the
bonnet clicks open.
– press the safety lever (A-fig. 149)
upwards.
– raise the bonnet.
IMPORTANTBonnet raising is aided by
two gas springs. Do not tamper with these
springs and accompany the bonnet while
raising it.
fig. 148
A0A0135b
Do not load the boot
above the permitted max-
imum (see “Technical spec-
ifications”). Also make sure that
the objects contained in the boot
are well secured to prevent them
from being thrown forward, caus-
ing harm to the passengers.
A heavy load that has not
been secured may cause
serious harm to passen-
gers.
If you want to carry re-
serve fuel in a can, follow
legal regulations, only us-
ing a certified can, suitably fastened
to the load securing eyelets. Even
in this way the risk of fire is in-
creased in the case of an accident.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR
148
Scarves, ties and other
loose clothing might be
pulled by moving parts.
For safety reasons the
bonnet shall always be
perfectly closed when trav-
elling. Always check for proper
bonnet locking. If the bonnet is left
inadvertently open, stop the car
immediately and close the bonnet.
To close:
– lower the bonnet until approx. 20 cm
from the engine compartment and then let
it drop, ensuring it is fully closed and not just
held in position by the safety catch.
If the bonnet does not close properly do
not push it down but open it again and re-
peat the above procedure.
HEADLIGHTS
The adjustment of the headlights is vital to
your safety and comfort and to that of oth-
er road users.
The adjustment of the headlights is also
governed by precise regulations.
Contact Alfa Romeo Authorised Services to
have the headlights correctly adjusted.
IMPORTANTThe headlight inner sur-
face may get slightly misted: this does not
mean it is faulty; it is a natural phenome-
non due to low temperature and the air hu-
midity level. Misting will disappear as soon
as the headlights are turned on. The pres-
ence of water drops inside the headlight in-
dicates water infiltration: contact Alfa Romeo
Authorised Services.
COMPENSATION FOR TILT
(fig. 150)
When the vehicle is loaded, the beam from
the headlights is raised due to the back-
wards tilt of the vehicle.
In this case the headlights must be ad-
justed correctly.
To do this, use the rocker button (A), on
the plate at the side of the steering column:
– press the arrow on the button (
A), to
increase by one position (e.g.:0
➟1➟2➟
3);
– press the arrow on the button (
S), this will low-
er by one position (e.g.:3
➟2➟1➟0);
The display (B) in the tachometer shows
the positions while adjustment is being ma
fig. 150
A0A0093b
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
263
2.close the driver's window completely
keepingthe button pressedfor at
least 3 seconds after window closing (win-
dow upper stop);
3.repeat the same procedure (point 1
and 2) also for the front passenger's win-
dow;
4.check for proper initialisation by oper-
ating the windows automatically.
USEFUL HINTS TO EXTEND
THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERY
To avoid rapidly draining the battery and
ensure that it continues to work correctly,
the following should be noted:
– The terminals must always be firmly
tightened.
– Within reason, avoid using electrical de-
vices for a long time when the engine is
switched off (radio, hazard warning lights,
parking lights, etc.). IMPORTANTIf the battery is kept
with a charge of below 50% it is damaged
by sulphation, its starting capability is
reduced and it is also more subject to the
possibility of freezing (this may occur
already at -10 °C). In the event of a pro-
longed inactivity, refer to the paragraph
“Vehicle inactivity”, in the chapter
“Correct use of the car”.
CHANGING THE BATTERY
When changing the battery it should be
replaced with another original one with
the same characteristics. If it is replaced
by a battery with different characteristics,
the maintenance intervals given in the
Scheduled Maintenance Programme in
this chapter are no longer valid and for
maintenance it will be necessary to follow
the battery Manufacturer’s instructions.
IMPORTANTAfter control unit power
disconnection (battery replacement or dis-
connection and replacement of power win-
dow control unit protection fuses), the
power window automatism shall be
restored.
Proceed as follows with doors closed:
1.open the driver's window completely
keepingthe button pressedfor at
least 3 seconds after window opening
(window lower stop);– When the vehicle is parked in a garage,
ensure that the doors, bonnet, boot and in-
ner lids are closed properly so that the lights
do not stay on permanently.
– Before carrying out any work on the
electric system, disconnect the negative ca-
ble from the battery.
– If after buying the car, you wish to in-
stall electric accessories which require a per-
manent electric supply (alarm, voice feature,
radionavigator with satellite antitheft func-
tion etc.) or accessories that burden the elec-
tric system, contact Alfa Romeo Authorised
Services whose qualified personnel, in ad-
dition to suggesting the most suitable de-
vices belonging to Lineaccessori Alfa Romeo,
will evaluate the overall electric absorption,
checking whether the vehicle’s electric sys-
tem is capable of withstanding the load re-
quired, or whether it should be integrated
with a more powerful battery. In fact, as
some of these devices continue absorbing
energy even when the ignition key is off (car
stationary, engine off), they gradually drain
the battery.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
268
Detergents cause water
pollution. Therefore the
vehicle should be washed
in areas equipped for collecting
and purifying the liquid used in
the washing process.Where possible, do not park under trees;
the resinous substances many species
release give the paint a dull appearance
and increase the possibility of triggering
the rust processes.
IMPORTANTBird droppings must be
washed off immediately and thoroughly
as the acid they contain is particularly
aggressive.
To correctly wash the car:
1) Remove the aerial from the roof to pre-
vent damage to it if the car is washed in
an automatic system.
2) Spray the vehicle with a low pressure
jet of water.
3) Pass a sponge moistened with a light
detergent solution, rinsing the sponge fre-
quently.
4) Rinse well with water and dry with a
jet of air or chamois leather.
When drying, take particular care with
the less visible parts like door surrounds,
bonnet and around the headlights where
water may stagnate. The vehicle should
not be taken to a closed area immediate-
ly, but left in the open so that residual
water can evaporate.
Do not wash the vehicle after it has been
left in the sun or with the bonnet hot: this
may alter the shine of the paintwork.
Exterior plastic parts must be cleaned in
the same way as the rest of the vehicle. ADVICE FOR PRESERVING
THE BODYWORK
Paint
The paintwork does not only serve an
aestethic purpose but also protects the
underlying sheet metal.
In the case of deep scrapes or scores,
you are advised to have the necessary
touching up carried out immediately to
avoid the formation fo rust.
Only original products should be used for
touching up paint (see “Body paint identi-
fication plate” in the “Technical
Specifications” chapter).
Normal paint maintenance consists in
washing at intervals depending on the
conditions and environment of use. For
example, in highly polluted areas, or if the
roads are sprayed with salt, it is wise to
wash the car more frequently.