2016 FIAT 500L brakes

In critical situations (braking with different grip condi-
tions), through the DST function the ESC system controls
the steering to implement an additional torque contribu-
tion on the steering wheel, to suggest the most correct
manoeuvre to the driver.
The coordinated action of brakes and steering increases
the safety and vehicle control feeling.
NOTE:The DST is a driving aid system and does not
replace the driver’s actions while driving the vehicle.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
This system enhances directional control and stability of
the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESC cor-
rects for oversteering or understeering of the vehicle by
applying the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist in
counteracting the oversteering or understeering condi-
tion. Engine power may also be reduced to help the
vehicle maintain the desired path. ESC uses sensors in
the vehicle to determine the vehicle path intended by the driver and compares it to the actual path of the vehicle.
When the actual path does not match the intended path,
ESC applies the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist
in counteracting the oversteer or understeer condition.
•
Oversteer - when the vehicle is turning more than
appropriate for the steering wheel position.
• Understeer - when the vehicle is turning less than
appropriate for the steering wheel position.
WARNING!
• The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot pre-
vent the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded by
prevailing road conditions. ESC cannot prevent all
accidents, including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or
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5
STARTING AND OPERATING 301

ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may
result in unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze)
performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emis-
sions.
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 failure and
possibly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or
riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally
high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and
possible brake damage. Riding the brakes may also
reduce braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under hood services, or immediately if
the “Brake Warning Light” is on.
Be sure to 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. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the
brake pads wear. The brake fluid level should be checked
when the pads are replaced. However, low fluid level
may be caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed.
NOTE:If your vehicle is equipped with a manual
transmission, the brake fluid reservoir supplies fluid to
both the brake system and the clutch release system. The
two systems are separated in the reservoir, and a leak in
one system will not affect the other system. The manual
transmission clutch release system should not require
fluid replacement during the life of the vehicle. If the
7
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 405

Automatic Transmission...........270, 283, 409, 411
Adding Fluid ...................... .410, 411
Autostick ............................ .289
Fluid And Filter Changes ..................411
Fluid Change ..........................411
Fluid Level Check ...................... .410
Fluid Type ........................... .437
Gear Ranges .......................... .284
Special Additives ...................... .410
Autostick .............................. .289
Auto Up Power Windows ....................27
Battery ................................ .388
Jump Starting ......................... .365
Belts, Seat ...............................83
Body Mechanism Lubrication .................392
B-Pillar Location ......................... .313
Brake Assist System ...................... .298
Brake Fluid ............................ .437Brake, Parking
.......................... .294
Brakes ................................ .405
Brake System ........................ .296, 405
Anti-Lock (ABS) ....................... .297
Master Cylinder ....................... .405
Parking ............................. .294
Warning Light ........................ .166
Brake/Transmission Interlock .................272
Bulb Replacement ..................... .428, 430
Bulbs, Light .......................... .85, 428
Camera, Rear ........................... .131
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ..........434
Capacities, Fluid ......................... .434
Caps, Filler Fuel ................................ .378
Oil (Engine) .......................... .386
Carbon Monoxide Warning ................82, 342
Car Washes ............................ .412
10
INDEX 459

LocksChild Protection .........................25
Door .................................22
Lubrication, Body ........................ .392
Lug Nuts .............................. .350
Maintenance Free Battery ....................388
Maintenance, General ..................... .384
Maintenance Procedures ....................384
Maintenance Schedule ..................... .440
Malfunction Indicator Light (Check Engine) .......178
Manual, Service ......................... .453
Manual Transmission ...................268, 407
Fluid Level Check ...................... .407
Frequency Of Fluid Change ................407
Lubricant Selection ...................407, 437
Master Cylinder (Brakes) ....................405
Methanol .............................. .339
Mirrors .................................90 Automatic Dimming
......................91
Electric Powered .........................92
Electric Remote .........................92
Heated ...............................93
Rearview ..............................90
Modifications/Alterations, Vehicle ...............8
Monitor, Tire Pressure System ................333
MTBE/ETBE ........................... .339
Multi-Function Control Lever .................111
New Vehicle Break-In Period ..................80
Occupant Restraints ........................31
Octane Rating, Gasoline (Fuel) ................338
Oil Change Indicator ...................... .190
Oil Change Indicator, Reset ..................190
Oil, Engine ...................... .385, 434, 435
Capacity ............................ .434
Change Interval ....................... .386
466 INDEX