2013 FIAT FREEMONT maintenance

IMPORTANT NOTICE
ALL MATERIAL CONTAINED IN THIS PUBLICA-
TION IS BASED ON THE LATEST INFORMATION
AVAILABLE AT TIME OF PUBLICATION APPROVAL.
THE RIGHT IS RESERVED TO PUBLISH REVISIONS
AT ANY TIME.
This Owner's Manual has been prepared with the
assistance of service and engineering specialists to
acquaint you with the operation and maintenance of
your new vehicle. It is supplemented by a Warranty
Information Booklet and various customer-oriented
documents. You are urged to read these publications
carefully. Following the instructions and recommenda-
tions in this Owner's Manual will help assure safe and
enjoyable operation of your vehicle.
After you have read the Owner’s Manual, it should be
stored in the vehicle for convenient reference and
remain with the vehicle when sold.
The manufacturer reserves the right to make changes
in design and specifications, and/or to make additions
to or improvements in its products without imposing
any obligations upon itself to install them on products
previously manufactured.
The Owner's Manual illustrates and describes the fea-
tures that are standard or available as extra cost op-tions. Therefore, some of the equipment and accesso-
ries in this publication may not appear on your vehicle.
NOTE:
Be sure to read the Owner's Manual first
before driving your vehicle and before attaching or
installing parts/accessories or making other modifica-
tions to the vehicle.
In view of the many replacement parts and accessories
from various manufacturers available on the market,
the manufacturer cannot be certain that the driving
safety of your vehicle will not be impaired by the
attachment or installation of such parts. Even if such
parts are officially-approved (for example, by a general
operating permit for the part or by constructing the
part in an officially approved design), or if an individual
operating permit was issued for the vehicle after the
attachment or installation of such parts, it cannot be
implicitly assumed that the driving safety of your ve-
hicle is unimpaired. Therefore, neither experts nor
official agencies are liable. The manufacturer only as-
sumes responsibility when parts, which are expressly
authorized or recommended by the manufacturer, are
attached or installed at an authorized dealer. The same
applies when modifications to the original condition
are subsequently made on the manufacturer's vehicles.
Your warranties do not cover any part that the manu-
facturer did not supply. Nor do they cover the cost of
any repairs or adjustments that might be caused or
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KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
S

TARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

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 blowerspeed. 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.
Outside Air Intake
Make sure the air intake, located directly in front of the
windshield, is free of obstructions such as leaves.
Leaves collected in the air intake may reduce airflow,
and if they enter the plenum, they could plug the water
drains. In winter months, make sure the air intake is
clear of ice, slush, and snow.
A/C Air Filter
The climate control system filters outside air contain-
ing dust, pollen and some odors. Strong odors cannot
be totally filtered out. Refer to “Maintenance Proce-
dures” in “Servicing And Care” for filter replacement
instructions.
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KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

NOTE:If three consecutive sunroof close attempts
result in Pinch Protect reversals, the fourth close at-
tempt will be a Manual Close movement with Pinch
Protect disabled.
VENTING SUNROOF — EXPRESS
Press and release the “Vent” button, and the sunroof
will open to the vent position. This is called “Express
Vent”, and will occur regardless of sunroof position.
During Express Vent operation, any movement of the
switch will stop the sunroof.
SUNSHADE OPERATION
The sunshade can be opened manually. However, the
sunshade will open automatically as the sunroof opens.
NOTE: The sunshade cannot be closed if the sunroof
is open.
WIND BUFFETING
Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of
pressure on the ears or a helicopter-type sound in the
ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the
windows down, or the sunroof (for versions/markets,
where provided) in certain open or partially open
positions. This is a normal occurrence and can be
minimized. If the buffeting occurs with the rear win-
dows open, open the front and rear windows together
to minimize the buffeting. If the buffeting occurs with the sunroof open, adjust the sunroof opening to mini-
mize the buffeting or open any window.
SUNROOF MAINTENANCE
Use only a nonabrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean
the glass panel.
IGNITION OFF OPERATION
For versions/markets, where provided without
the Electronic Vehicle Information Center
(EVIC)
The power sunroof switch will remain active for 45
seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the
LOCK position. Opening either front door will cancel
this feature.
For versions/markets, where provided with the
EVIC
The power sunroof switch will remain active for up to
10 minutes after the ignition switch is turned to the
LOCK position. Opening either front door will cancel
this feature.
NOTE:
The delay time is programmable using the
Uconnect Touch™ system. Refer to “Uconnect
Touch™ Settings” for further information.
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KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
S

TARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

The TPMS has been optimized for the
original equipment tires and wheels.
TPMS pressures and warning have been
established for the tire size equipped on your
vehicle. Undesirable system operation or sensor
damage may result when using replacement
equipment that is not of the same size, type,
and/or style.Aftermarket wheels can cause sensor
damage. Do not use aftermarket tire sealants or
balance beads if your vehicle is equipped with a
TPMS, as damage to the sensors may result .
 After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure,
always reinstall the valve stem cap.This will pre-
vent moisture and dirt from entering the valve
stem, which could damage theTire Pressure Moni-
toring Sensor.
NOTE:
 The TPMS is not intended to replace normal tire care and maintenance, or to provide warning of a tire
failure or condition.
 The TPMS should not be used as a tire pressure gauge while adjusting your tire pressure.
 Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and
stopping ability.
 The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire mainte- nance, and it is the driver’s responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressure using an accurate tire pressure
gauge, even if under-inflation has not reached the
level to trigger illumination of the Tire Pressure
Monitoring Telltale Light.
 Seasonal temperature changes will affect tire pres- sure, and the TPMS will monitor the actual tire
pressure in the tire.
BASE SYSTEM
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses wire-
less technology with wheel rim mounted electronic
sensors to monitor tire pressure levels. Sensors,
mounted to each wheel as part of the valve stem,
transmit tire pressure readings to the receiver module.
NOTE: It is particularly important for you to check
the tire pressure in all of the tires on your vehicle
monthly and to maintain the proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following components:
 Receiver Module
 Four Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors
 Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light
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KNOWING YOUR
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TARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

iPod®/USB/MP3 CONTROL (for
version/markets where provided)
This feature allows an iPod
®or external USB device to
be plugged into the USB port.
iPod
®
control supports Mini, 4G, Photo, Nano, 5G
iPod
®
and iPhone
®
devices. Some iPod
®
software
versions may not fully support the iPod®
control
features. Please visit Apple’s website for software up-
dates.
For further information, refer to the Uconnect
Touch™ User’s Manual. CD/DVD DISC MAINTENANCE
To keep a CD/DVD in good condition, take the follow-
ing precautions:
1. Handle the disc by its edge; avoid touching the
surface.
2. If the disc is stained, clean the surface with a soft cloth, wiping from center to edge.
3. Do not apply paper or tape to the disc; avoid scratching the disc.
4. Do not use solvents such as benzene, thinner, clean- ers, or anti-static sprays.
5. Store the disc in its case after playing.
6. Do not expose the disc to direct sunlight.
7. Do not store the disc where temperatures may become too high.
NOTE: If you experience difficulty in playing a par-
ticular disc, it may be damaged (i.e., scratched, reflec-
tive coating removed, a hair, moisture or dew on the
disc) oversized, or have protection encoding. Try a
known good disc before considering disc player ser-
vice.
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KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
S

TARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

on your clothing, follow the garment manufacturer's
instructions for cleaning.
Do not drive your vehicle after the air bags have
deployed. If you are involved in another collision, the
air bags will not be in place to protect you.
WARNING!
Deployed air bags and seat belt preten-
si
oners cannot protect you in another
collision. Have the air bags, seat belt pretension-
ers, and the front seat belt retractor assemblies
replaced by an authorized dealer immediately.
Also, have the Occupant Restraint Controller
(ORC) system serviced as well.
Air Bag Warning Light
You will want to have the air bags ready to
inflate for your protection in a collision. The
Air Bag Warning Light monitors the internal
circuits and interconnecting wiring associated
with air bag system electrical components. While the
air bag system is designed to be maintenance free. If any
of the following occurs, have an authorized dealer
service the air bag system immediately.  The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on during
the four to eight seconds when the ignition is first
cycled to the ON/RUN.
 The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after the four to eight-second interval.
 The Air Bag Warning Light comes on intermittently or remains on while driving.
NOTE: If the speedometer, tachometer, or any en-
gine related gauges are not working, the Occupant
Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be disabled. The
air bags may not be ready to inflate for your protection.
Promptly check the fuse block for blown fuses. Refer to
the label located on the inside of the fuse block cover
for the proper air bag fuses. See your authorized dealer
if the fuse is good.
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KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
W
ARNING LIGHTS AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

STARTING AND DRIVING
ENGINE BREAK-IN
RECOMMENDATIONS
A long break-in period is not required for the engine
and drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.
Drive moderately during the first 500 km. After the
initial 100 km, speeds up to 80 or 90 km/h are desir-
able.
While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within
the limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good
break-in. Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear
can be detrimental and should be avoided.
The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high-quality energy-conserving type lubricant. Oil
changes should be consistent with anticipated climate
conditions under which vehicle operations will occur.
For the recommended viscosity and quality grades,
refer to “Maintenance Procedures” in “Maintaining
Your Vehicle”. NON-DETERGENT OR STRAIGHT
MINERAL OILS MUST NEVER BE USED.
A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand kilometers of operation. This should be con-
sidered a normal part of the break-in and not inter-
preted as an indication of difficulty. STARTING PROCEDURES
Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust
the inside and outside mirrors, fasten your seat belt,
and if present, instruct all other occupants to buckle
their seat belts.
WARNING!
 Bef
ore exiting a vehicle, always apply
the parking brake, shift the transmission
into PARK, and remove the key fob from the
ignition. When leaving the vehicle, always lock
your vehicle.
 Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle.
 Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended
is dangerous for a number of reasons.A child or
others could be seriously or fatally injured. Chil-
dren should be warned not to touch the parking
brake, brake pedal or the shift lever.
(Continued)
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KNOWING YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING AND
DRIVING
WARNING LIGHTSAND
MESSA
GES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS

TRAILER AND TONGUE WEIGHT
Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier in the rear
can cause the trailer to swayseverelyside to side
which will cause loss of control of the vehicle and
trailer. Failure to load trailers heavier in front is the
cause of many trailer accidents.
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight stamped
on your trailer hitch.
Consider the following items when computing the
weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:
 The tongue weight of the trailer.
 The weight of any other type of cargo or equipment
put in or on your vehicle.
 The weight of the driver and all passengers.
NOTE: Remember that everything put into or on the
trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also, additional
factory-installed options or dealer-installed options
must be considered as part of the total load on your
vehicle. Refer to the Tire and Loading Information
placard, located on the face of the driver's door or on
the driver's side “B” pillar, for the maximum combined
weight of occupants and cargo for your vehicle. TOWING REQUIREMENTS
To promote proper break-in of your new vehicle drive-
train components the following guidelines are recom-
mended:

Do not tow a trailer at all during the
first 805 km the new vehicle is driven.The
engine, axle or other parts could be dam-
aged.
 Then, during the first 805 km that a trailer is
towed, do not drive over 80 km/h and do not make
starts at full throttle. This helps the engine and
other parts of the vehicle wear in at the heavier
loads.
Perform the maintenance listed in the Maintenance
Schedule. When towing a trailer, never exceed the
GAWR ratings.
229
KNOWING
YOUR
VEHICLE
SAFETY
STARTING
AND
DRIVING
WARNING
LIGHTS
AND
MESSAGES
IN AN
EMERGENCY
SERVICING
AND
CARETECHNICAL
SPECIFICATIONSCONTENTS