without the engine naturally reaching
idling speed, the learning procedure is
invalidated and the
warning light
on the instrument panel will turn on. If
the engine is not brought to over
6000 rpm, or it is not warmed up, the
control unit will keep open the
possibility to repeat the described
procedure.
Inspecting electrolyte level
A low level of electrolyte fluid will cause
the battery to discharge quickly.
Inspect the electrolyte level at least
once a week. If it is low, remove the
caps and add enough distilled water to
bring the level between the upper and
lower levelfig. 150 (1 = upper level/2=
lower level).Do not overfill.
Examine the specific gravity of the
electrolyte with a hydrometer, especiallyduring cold weather. If it is low,
recharge the battery.
Battery replacement
Contact a Fiat Dealership for a battery
replacement purchase.
After replacing the battery, perform the
phonic wheel learning procedure
described in the “Battery maintenance”
chapter.
WARNING
189)Never smoke when performing
operations in the engine compartment.
Flammable gases and fumes may be
present and risk igniting.
190)Be very careful when working in the
engine compartment when the engine is
hot: you may get burned. Do not get too
close to the radiator cooling fan: the
electric fan may start; danger of injury.
Scarves, ties and other loose clothing
might be pulled by moving parts.
191)If the engine oil is being topped up,
wait for the engine to cool down before
loosening the filler cap, particularly for
vehicles with aluminium cap (where
provided). IMPORTANT: risk of burns!
192)Do not use a match or live flame in
the engine compartment. DO NOT ADD
COOLANT WHEN THE ENGINE IS HOT: a
hot engine is dangerous. If the engine has
been running, parts of the engine
compartment can become very hot. You
could be burned. Carefully inspect the
engine coolant in the coolant reservoir, but
do not open it.193)Do not remove either cooling system
cap when the engine and radiator are hot.
When the engine and radiator are hot,
scalding coolant and steam may shoot out
under pressure and cause serious injury.
194)The cooling system is pressurized. If
necessary, only replace the cap with
another original one or the operation of the
system may be adversely affected. Do not
remove the reservoir cap when the engine
is hot: risk of burns.
195)Do not travel with the windscreen
washer fluid reservoir empty: the washer
operation is essential for improving visibility.
Repeated operation of the system without
fluid could damage or cause rapid
deterioration of some system components.
196)Certain commercial additives for
windscreen washer fluids are inflammable.
The engine compartment contains hot
components which may set it on fire.
197)Brake fluid is poisonous and highly
corrosive. In the event of accidental
contact, immediately wash the affected
parts with water and mild soap. Then rinse
thoroughly. Call a doctor immediately if
swallowed.
198)Battery fluid is poisonous and
corrosive. Avoid contact with the skin and
eyes. Keep open flames away from the
battery and do not use objects that might
create sparks: risk of explosion and fire.
199)Using the battery with insufficient fluid
irreparably damages the battery and may
cause an explosion.
200)If the vehicle must remain unused for
a long time at a very low temperature,
remove the battery and take it to a warm
place, to avoid freezing.
15007031202-ALL-001
166
MAINTENANCE AND CARE
