To access the battery, turn the steering wheel fully to
the right and remove the access panel from the inner
fender shield.
WARNING!
Batter
y fluid is a corrosive acid solu-
tion and can burn or even blind you. Do
not allow battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin,
or clothing. Do not lean over a battery when
attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes or on
skin, flush the area immediately with large
amounts of water.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep
flame or sparks away from the battery. Do not
use a booster battery or any other booster source
with an output greater than 12 Volts. Do not
allow cable clamps to touch each other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related accesso-
ries contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash
hands after handling.
It is essential when replacing the
cables on the battery that the positive
cable is attached to the positive post and
the negative cable is attached to the negative
post . Battery posts are marked positive (+) and
negative (-) and identified on the battery case.
Cable clamps should be tight on the terminal
posts and free of corrosion.
If a “fast charger ” is used while the battery is in
the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables
before connecting the charger to the battery. Do
not use a “fast charger ” to provide starting volt-
age as battery damage can result .
AIR CONDITIONER MAINTENANCE
For best possible performance, your air conditioner
should be checked and serviced by an authorized
dealer at the start of each warm season. This service
should include cleaning of the condenser fins and a
performance test. Drive belt tension should also be
checked at this time.Do not use chemical flushes in your air
conditioning system as the chemicals can
damage your air conditioning compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
297
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
WARNING!
Us
e only refrigerants and compressor
lubricants approved by the manufac-
turer for your air conditioning system. Some un-
approved refrigerants are flammable and can
explode, injuring you. Other unapproved refrig-
erants or lubricants can cause the system to fail,
requiring costly repairs.
The air conditioning system contains refriger-
ant under high pressure.To avoid risk of personal
injury or damage to the system, adding refriger-
ant or any repair requiring lines to be discon-
nected should be done by an experienced techni-
cian.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
R-134a Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluoro-
carbon (HFC) that is endorsed by the Environmental
Protection Agency and is an ozone-saving product.
However, the manufacturer recommends that air con-
ditioning service be performed by authorized dealer
or other service facilities using recovery and recycling
equipment.
NOTE: Use only manufacturer approved A/C system
sealers, stop leak products, seal conditioners, com-
pressor oil, and refrigerants. A/C AIR FILTER
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
Car maintenance should be done at a
FIAT Dealership. For routine and minor
maintenance operations you wish to
carry out yourself, we do recommend you have
the proper equipment , genuine FIAT spare parts
and the necessary fluids; do not however carry out
these operations if you have no experience.
WARNING!
Do not remove the A/C air filter while
t
he blower is operating or personal in-
jury may result .
The A/C air filter is located in the fresh air inlet behind
the glove box. Perform the following steps to replace
the filter:
1. Open the glove box and remove all contents.
2. Push the retaining tab on each side of the glove box inward while gently pulling the glove box door
outward until both tabs clear the door opening in
the instrument panel. (fig. 177)
3. Pivot the glove box downward.
4. Disengage the two retaining tabs that secure the
298
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
C
ARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
Do not overfill the coolant recovery bottle.
Check coolant freeze point in the radiator and in thecoolant recovery bottle. If antifreeze needs to be
added, contents of coolant recovery bottle must also
be protected against freezing.
If frequent coolant additions are required, or if the level in the coolant recovery bottle does not drop
when the engine cools, the cooling system should be
pressure tested for leaks.
Make sure that the radiator and coolant recovery bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Win- ter operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install
ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs
may result in unsatisfactory coolant performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
BRAKE SYSTEM
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically.
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake fail-
ure
and possibly an accident . Driving
with your foot resting or riding on the brake
pedal can result in abnormally high brake tem-
peratures, excessive lining wear, and possible
brake damage.You would not have your full brak-
ing capacity in an emergency.Car maintenance should be done at a
FIAT Dealership. For routine and minor
maintenance operations you wish to
carry out yourself, we do recommend you have
the proper equipment , genuine FIAT spare parts
and the necessary fluids; do not however carry out
these operations if you have no experience.
Master Cylinder – Brake Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder immediately
if the “Brake Warning Light” indicates system failure.
Check the fluid level in the master cylinder when
performing underhood services.
Clean the top of the master cylinder area before
removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the
fluid level up to the requirements described on the
brake fluid reservoir.
307
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
Parts” in “Technical Specifications” for further informa-
tion. It is important to maintain the transmission fluid
at the correct level using the recommended fluid. No
chemical flushes should be used in any transmission;
only the approved lubricant should be used.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using
any special additives in the transmission. Automatic
Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered product and
its performance may be impaired by supplemental ad-
ditives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the
transmission. The only exception to this policy is the
use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid
using transmission sealers as they may adversely affect
seals.
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can dam-
age your transmission components. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
Fluid Level Check – Six-Speed Automatic
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not
require adjustment under normal operating conditions.
Routine fluid level checks are not required, therefore
the transmission has no dipstick. Your authorized
dealer can check your transmission fluid level using a special service dipstick. If you notice fluid leakage or
transmission malfunction, visit your authorized dealer
immediately to have the transmission fluid level
checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper fluid
level can cause severe transmission damage.
Car maintenance should be done at a
FIAT Dealership. For routine and minor
maintenance operations you wish to
carry out yourself, we do recommend you have
the proper equipment , genuine FIAT spare parts
and the necessary fluids; do not however carry out
these operations if you have no experience.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the “Maintenance Schedule” for the proper
maintenance intervals.
In addition, change the fluid and filter if the transmis-
sion is disassembled for any reason.
MANUAL TRANSMISSION (for versions/
markets, where provided)
Fluid Level Check
Visually inspect manual transmission for leakage at each
oil change. Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the
proper fluid level.
309
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the belts with chemical
solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the
fabric. Sun damage can also weaken the fabric.
If the belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or
lukewarm water. Do not remove the belts from the car
to wash them. Dry with a soft cloth.
Replace the belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the
buckles do not work properly.
CLEANING THE CUP HOLDERS
Clean with a damp cloth or towel using a mild deter-
gent.VEHICLE STORAGE
If you will not be using your vehicle for more than 21
days, you may want to take steps to preserve your
battery.
Disengage the mini-fuse in the Power Distribution
Center labeled IOD (Ignition Off-Draw).
Or disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
Anytime 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 sys-
tem is started again.
314
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
C
ARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
inflation pressure must not exceed the maximum infla-
tion pressure molded into the tire sidewall.
Check tire pressures more often if subject to a wide
range of outdoor temperatures, as tire pressures vary
with temperature changes.
Tire pressures change by approximately 0.07 BAR per
7°C of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when
checking tire pressure inside a garage, especially in the
winter.
Example: If garage temperature = 20°C and the outside
temperature = 0°C then the cold tire inflation pressure
should be increased by 0.21 BAR, which equals 0.07
BARfor every 7°C for this outside temperature condi-
tion.
Tire pressure may increase from 0.13 to 0.4 BAR during
operation. DO NOT reduce this normal pressure build
up or your tire pressure will be too low.
Tire Pressures For High Speed Operation
The manufacturer advocates driving at safe speeds
within posted speed limits. Where speed limits or
conditions are such that the vehicle can be driven at
high speeds, maintaining correct tire inflation pressure
is very important. Increased tire pressure and reduced
vehicle loading may be required for high-speed vehicle
operation. Refer to original equipment or an autho-rized tire dealer for recommended safe operating
speeds, loading and cold tire inflation pressures.
WARNING!
High speed driving with your vehicle un-
der
maximum load is dangerous. The
added strain on your tires could cause them to
fail. You could have a serious collision. Do not
drive a vehicle loaded to the maximum capacity
at continuous speeds above 120 km/h.
RADIAL-PLY TIRES
WARNING!
Combining radial ply tires with other
t
ypes of tires on your vehicle will cause
your vehicle to handle poorly. The instability
could cause a collision. Always use radial ply tires
in sets of four. Never combine them with other
types of tires.
Cuts and punctures in radial tires are repairable only in
the tread area because of sidewall flexing. Consult your
authorized tire dealer for radial tire repairs.
318
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
ask your gasoline retailer whether or not his/her gaso-
line contains MMT.
Materials Added To Fuel
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the proper octane
rating, gasolines that contain detergents, corrosion and
stability additives are recommended. Using gasolines
that have these additives will help improve fuel
economy, reduce emissions, and maintain vehicle per-
formance.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning agents should
be avoided. Many of these materials intended for gum
and varnish removal may contain active solvents or
similar ingredients. These can harm fuel system gasket
and diaphragm materials.
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases
is
deadly. Follow the precautions below
to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas
which can kill. Never run the engine in a closed
area, such as a garage, and never sit in a parked
vehicle with the engine running for an extended
period. If the vehicle is stopped in an open area
with the engine running for more than a short
period, adjust the ventilation system to force
fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
Guard against carbon monoxide with proper
maintenance. Have the exhaust system inspected
every time the vehicle is raised. Have any abnor-
mal conditions repaired promptly. Until re-
paired, drive with all side windows fully open.
Keep the liftgate closed when driving your
vehicle to prevent carbon monoxide and other
poisonous exhaust gases from entering the ve-
hicle.
326
KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS
CONTENTS
About Your Brakes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118, 207
ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System) . . . . . . . . . .119, 120, 243
Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .305
Adding Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .163
Adding Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .301
Additives, Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .326
Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187, 194
Airbag Deployment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195
Airbag Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193, 196, 199, 239
Airbag, Side . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .189, 192, 194
Airbag, Window (Side Curtain) . . . . . . . . . .190, 192, 194
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) . . . . . .296
Air Conditioner Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .297
Air Conditioning Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73, 298
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Air Conditioning, Rear Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70
Air Conditioning Refrigerant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .297, 298
Air Conditioning System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68, 297
Air Pressure, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .241, 317
Alarm (Security Alarm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15, 244
Alarm System (Security Alarm) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15, 17
All Wheel Drive (AWD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) . . . . . . . . . . . .304, 305, 327 Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .306
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119, 120
Anti-Lock Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120, 121, 243
Anti-Theft Security Alarm (Theft Alarm) . . . . . . . . . . .15
Anti-Theft System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .244
Arming Theft System (Security Alarm) . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Auto Down Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109 Automatic Dimming Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Automatic Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Automatic Oil Change Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211, 308
Adding Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .309
Fluid and Filter Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .309
Fluid Level Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .309
Gear Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .213, 217
Auto Unlock, Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102
Auxiliary Electrical Outlet (Power Outlet) . . . . . . . . . .94
Auxiliary Power Outlet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .94
Back-Up Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .268
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .296 Gas Caution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .297
Keyless Transmitter Replacement (RKE) . . . . . . . . .13
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .296
Belts, Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .167, 199
Body Mechanism Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .299
Booster Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .181
Brake Assist System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122
Brake Control System, Electronic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
Brake, Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118, 307
Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118, 307
Anti-Lock (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119, 120
Fluid Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307
Master Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .307
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207
333
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS