2011 FIAT FREEMONT engine overheat

The gauge pointer will likely indicate a high tempera-
ture when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades,
in heavy traffic, or when towing a trailer. If the pointer
rises to the “H” mark, safely pull over and stop the
vehicle. If the Air Conditioning A/C system is on, turn
it off. Also, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL and
idle the vehicle. If the needle remains on the “H” mark,
turn the engine OFF immediately and call for service.
(Refer to “If Your Engine Overheats” in “In An Emer-
gency” for further information).
Do not leave your vehicle unattended
with the engine running, as you would not
be able to react to the temperature indi-
cator light if the engine overheats. A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS
Your vehicle uses a keyless ignition system. This system
consists of a Key Fob with Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter and a Keyless Ignition Node (KIN).
Keyless Enter-N-Go Feature
This vehicle is equipped with the Keyless Enter-N-Go
feature, refer to “Starting Procedure” in “Starting And
Driving” for further information.
KEYLESS IGNITION NODE (KIN)
This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition
switch with the push of a button, as long as the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter is in the passenger
compartment.
The Keyless Ignition Node (KIN) has four operating
positions, three of which are labeled and will illuminate
when in position. The three positions are OFF, ACC,
and ON/RUN. The fourth position is START, during
start RUN will illuminate.
NOTE:
In case the ignition switch does not change
with the push of a button, the RKE transmitter (Key
Fob) may have a low or dead battery. In this situation a
back up method can be used to operate the ignition
switch. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emer-
gency key) of the Key Fob against the ENGINE START/
STOP button and push to operate the ignition switch.
(fig. 4)
8
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

the charging system light remains on, it means that the
vehicle is experiencing a problem with the charging
system. Obtain SERVICE IMMEDIATELY. See an autho-
rized dealer.
If jump starting is required, refer to “Jump Starting
Procedures” in “In An Emergency”.
 Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) LightThis light informs you of a problem with the
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.
The light will come on when the ignition is
first turned ON and remain on briefly as a
bulb check. If the light does not come on during
starting, have the system checked by an authorized
dealer.
If a problem is detected, the light will come on while
the engine is running. Cycle the ignition key when the
vehicle has completely stopped and the shift lever is
placed in the PARK position. The light should turn off.
If the light remains lit with the engine running, your
vehicle will usually be drivable. However, see an autho-
rized dealer for service as soon as possible. If the light
is flashing when the engine is running, immediate ser-
vice is required. You may experience reduced perfor-
mance, an elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your
vehicle may require towing.
 Engine Temperature Warning Light This light warns of an overheated engine condi-
tion. As temperatures rise and the gauge ap-
proaches H,this indicator will illuminate and a single chime will sound after reaching a set threshold.
Further overheating will cause the temperature gauge
to pass
H,the indicator will continuously flash and a
continuous chime will occur until the engine is allowed
to cool.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and
stop the vehicle. If the A/C system is on, turn it off.
Also, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL and idle the
vehicle. If the temperature reading does not return to
normal, turn the engine off immediately and call for
service.
 Transmission Temperature Warning Light This light indicates that the transmission fluid
temperature is running hot. This may occur
with severe usage, such as trailer towing. If
this light turns on, safely pull over and stop
the vehicle. Then, shift the transmission into NEU-
TRAL and run the engine at idle or faster until the light
turns off.
Continuous driving with the Transmission
Temperature Warning Light illuminated
will eventually cause severe transmission
damage or transmission failure.
21KNOWING
YOURVEHICLESAFETY
STARTING ANDDRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
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IN AN
EMERGENCY
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CARETECHNICAL
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on the temperature knob is illuminated and any rear
overhead adjustments are ignored.
REAR MODE CONTROL
Auto Mode
The rear system automatically maintains the correct
mode and comfort level desired by the rear seat occu-pants.
Headliner ModeAir comes from the outlets in the headliner. Each
of these outlets can be individually adjusted to
direct the flow of air. Moving the air vanes of the
outlets to one side will shut off the airflow.
Bi-Level Mode Air comes from both the headliner outlets and
the floor outlets.
NOTE: In many temperature positions, the BI-LEVEL
mode is designed to provide cooler air out of the
headliner outlets and warmer air from the floor out-lets.
Floor Mode
Air comes from the floor outlets.
OPERATING TIPS
NOTE: Refer to the chart at the end of this section
for suggested control settings for various weather conditions. Summer Operation
The engine cooling system in air-conditioned vehicles
must be protected with a high-quality antifreeze cool-
ant to provide proper corrosion protection and to
protect against engine overheating. A solution of 50%
ethylene glycol antifreeze coolant and 50% water is
recommended. Refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in
“Servicing And Care” for proper coolant selection.
Winter Operation
Use of the air Recirculation mode during Winter
months is not recommended because it may cause
window fogging.
Vacation Storage
Any time you store your vehicle or keep it out of
service (i.e., vacation) for two weeks or more, run the
air conditioning system at idle for about five minutes in
the fresh air and high blower setting. This will ensure
adequate system lubrication to minimize the possibility
of compressor damage when the system is started
again.
Window Fogging
Interior fogging on the windshield can be quickly re-
moved by turning the mode selector to Defrost. The
Defrost/Floor mode can be used to maintain a clear
windshield and provide sufficient heating. If side win-
dow fogging becomes a problem, increase the blower
speed. Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in
mild but rainy or humid weather.
NOTE:
Recirculation mode without A/C should not
be used for long periods, as fogging may occur.
64
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE
If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, sand, or snow, it
can often be moved by a rocking motion. Turn your
steering wheel right and left to clear the area around
the front wheels. Then shift back and forth between
DRIVE/1st and REVERSE. Using the least accelerator
pedal pressure to maintain the rocking motion without
spinning the wheels is most effective.
Racing the engine or spinning the wheels
may lead to transmission overheating
and failure. Allow the engine to idle with
the shift lever in NEUTRAL for at least one min-
ute after every five rocking-motion cycles. This
will minimize overheating and reduce the risk of
transmission failure during prolonged efforts to
free a stuck vehicle.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with
Traction Control, turn the system OFF be-
fore attempting to “rock” the vehicle. Refer
to “Electronic Stability Program (ESP)” in
“Knowing Your Vehicle” for further information.
 When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by mov-
ing between DRIVE/1st and REVERSE, do
not spin the wheels faster than 24 km/h,
or drivetrain damage may result .
 Revving the engine or spinning the wheels too
fast may lead to transmission overheating and
failure. It can also damage the tires. Do not spin
the wheels above 48 km/h while in gear (no trans-
mission shifting occurring).
WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous.
Forces generated by excessive wheel
speeds may cause damage, or even failure, of the
axle and tires. A tire could explode and injure
someone. Do not spin your vehicle's wheels faster
than 48 km/h or for longer than 30 seconds
continuously without stopping when you are
stuck and do not let anyone near a spinning
wheel, no matter what the speed.
210
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

REAR TOW EYE USAGE
The rear tow eye receptacle is located behind a door,
located on the left rear bumper fascia.
To install the tow eye, open the door using the vehicle
key or a small screwdriver, and thread the tow eye into
the receptacle.
Insert the flat end of the jack handle through the eye
and tighten, refer to “Jacking and Tire Changing” for
further information. The tow hook must be fully seated
to the attaching bracket through the lower front fascia
as shown. If the tow hook is not fully seated to the
attaching bracket, the vehicle should not be towed.
(fig. 164)IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS
In any of the following situations, you can reduce the
potential for overheating by taking the appropriate
action.
• On the highways — Slow down.
• In city traffic — While stopped, put the transmission
in NEUTRAL, but do not increase engine idle speed.
Driving with a hot cooling system could
damage your vehicle. If the temperature
gauge reads “H,” safely pull over and stop
the vehicle. Idle the vehicle with the A/C turned
off until the pointer drops back into the normal
range. If the pointer remains on the “H,” and you
hear continuous chimes, turn the engine OFF im-
mediately, and call for service.
NOTE: There are steps that you can take to slow
down an impending overheat condition:
• If your air conditioner (A/C) is on, turn it off. The
A/C system adds heat to the engine cooling system and
turning the A/C off can help remove this heat.
• You can also turn the temperature control to maxi-
mum heat, the mode control to floor and the blower
control to high. This allows the heater core to act as a
supplement to the radiator and aids in removing heat
from the engine cooling system.
(fig. 164) Rear Tow Eye Installed
212
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

rating information can be found on most washer fluid
containers.
The fluid reservoir will hold nearly 4 Liters of washer
fluid when the message “LoWASH” appears in the
instrument cluster.
WARNING!
Commercially available windshield
washer solvents are flammable. They
could ignite and burn you. Care must be exer-
cised when filling or working around the washer
solution.
EXHAUST SYSTEM
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry
into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine
exhaust system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system, when exhaust fumes can be detected
inside the vehicle, or when the underside or rear of the
vehicle is damaged, have a competent technician in-
spect the complete exhaust system and adjacent body
areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or misposi-
tioned parts. Open seams or loose connections could
permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger com-
partment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system each
time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change.
Replace as required.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you
unconscious and can eventually poison you. To
avoid breathing CO, refer to “Safety Tips/Exhaust
Gas” in “Safety” for further information.
NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control
systems can result in civil penalties being assessed
against you.
WARNING!
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if
you park over materials that can burn.
Such materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do not
park or operate your vehicle in areas where your
exhaust system can contact anything that canburn.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning
engine operation, a scorching odor may indicate severe
and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, safely
bring the vehicle to a complete stop, shut the engine
OFF, and allow the vehicle to cool. Thereafter, obtain
service, including a tune-up to manufacturer's specifi-
cations immediately.
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KNOWING
YOURVEHICLE SAFETY
STARTING ANDDRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
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IN AN
EMERGENCYSERVICING AND
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SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

(Continued)
 Do not use plain water alone or alcohol base
engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use
additional rust inhibitors or antirust products, as
they may not be compatible with the radiator
engine coolant and may plug the radiator.
 This vehicle has not been designed for use with
Propylene Glycol based coolants. Use of Propyl-
ene Glycol based coolants is not recommended.
Adding Coolant – 2.0L Diesel Engine
Your vehicle has been built with an improved engine
coolant (antifreeze) that allows extended maintenance
intervals. This coolant can be used up to five years or
168 000 km before replacement. To prevent reducing
this extended maintenance period, it is important that
you use the same coolant throughout the life of your
vehicle.
Please note that it is the owner's responsibility to
maintain the proper level of protection against freezing
according to the temperatures occurring in the area
where the vehicle is operated.
NOTE: Mixing coolant types will decrease the life of
the engine coolant (antifreeze) and will require more
frequent coolant changes.
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of
coolant, and to ensure that coolant will return to the
radiator from the coolant recovery bottle. The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any
accumulation of foreign material on the sealing sur-
faces.
WARNING!
 The warning words “DO NOT OPEN
HOT” on the cooling system pressure
cap are a safety precaution. Never add coolant
when the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or
remove the cap to cool an overheated engine.
Heat causes pressure to build up in the cooling
system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not re-
move the pressure cap while the system is hot or
under pressure.
 Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or en-
gine damage may result .
Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based engine coolant is a regu-
lated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with
your local authorities to determine the disposal rules
for your community. To prevent ingestion by animals or
children, do not store ethylene glycol-based engine
coolant in open containers or allow it to remain in
puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child, contact a
physician immediately. Clean up any ground spills
immediately.
227
KNOWING
YOURVEHICLE SAFETY
STARTING ANDDRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCYSERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

Dimmer Switch, Headlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 DipsticksOil (Engine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Power Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Disabled Vehicle Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213Disposal Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Door Locks, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Downshifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170Driving
On Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Through Flowing, Rising, or Shallow Standing
Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Driving to Achieve Maximum Fuel Economy . . . . . . . 22
DVD Player (Video Entertainment System™) . . . . . . 128
Electric Remote Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Electrical Outlet, Auxiliary (Power Outlet) . . . . . . . . 82
Electrical Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Electronic Brake Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Anti-Lock Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Brake Assist System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Electronic Roll Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Electronic Stability Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Traction Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Electronic Roll Mitigation (ERM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Electronic Speed Control (Cruise Control) . . . . . . . . 75
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) . . . 18,124
Emergency, In Case of Freeing Vehicle When Stuck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Hazard Warning Flasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Jacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193 Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166,218 Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Break-In Recommendations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Checking Oil Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Coolant (Antifreeze) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226,242
Cooling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Exhaust Gas Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99,163
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219,241,242
Oil Change Interval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22,219
Oil Filler Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218,219
Oil Filter Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Oil Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Temperature Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Engine Oil Viscosity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Enhanced Accident Response Feature . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Entry System, Illuminated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Event Data Recorder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Exhaust Gas Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99,163,225
Exhaust System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163,225
Express Down Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Exterior Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Exterior Light Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Exterior Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165,201
Fabric Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Filters
Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220 249
KNOWING
YOURVEHICLE SAFETY
STARTING ANDDRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS