2018 FIAT 500 Owner handbook (in English)

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PERSONAL SAFETY
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• The electronic Cruise Control can be dangerous if the system is
unable to maintain a constant speed. In specific conditions speed
may be excessive, resulting in the risk of losing control of the
vehicle and causing accidents. Do not use the device in heavy
traffic or on winding, icy, snowy or slippery roads.
39) SERVICING - CHECKING FLUID LEVELS
•Never smoke while working in the engine compartment: gas
and inflammable vapours may be present, with the risk of fire.
•Be very careful when working in the engine compartment when
the engine is hot: you may get burned. Remember that when the
engine is hot, the fan may operate: danger of injury. Scarves, ties
and other loose clothing might be pulled by moving parts.
•The cooling system is pressurised. If necessary, only replace
the plug with another original or the operation of the system may
be adversely affected. Do not remove the reservoir plug when the
engine is hot: you risk scalding yourself.
•Do not travel with the windscreen washer fluid reservoir empty:
the windscreen washer is essential for improving visibility.
•Some commercial windscreen washer additives are flammable.
The engine compartment contains hot components which may
set it on fire.
•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.
•Symbol
πon the contain indicates a synthetic brake fluid,
which is different from a mineral fluid.
Use of a mineral type fluid will damage the special rubber seals of
the braking system beyond repair.
•Battery fluid is poisonous and corrosive. Avoid contact with skin
and eyes. Keep naked flames and sources of sparks away from
the battery: risk of explosion and fire. •Before towing, turn the ignition key to MAR and then to STOP
without removing it. The steering column will automatically lock
when the key is removed and the wheels cannot be steered.
•When towing, remember that without the help of the brake
servo and electric power steering, a greater effort is required on
the pedal and steering wheel.
•Do not use flexible cables when towing and avoid jerky
movements.
•During towing, make sure that the trailer hitch does not
damage any components it is touching.
•When towing the vehicle, you must comply with all specific
traffic regulations, both in terms of the towing device and
behaviour on the road.
•Do not start the engine while towing the car.
•The (front/rear) tow hook must be used exclusively for
roadside assistance operations.
You are allowed to tow the vehicle for short distances using an
appropriate device in accordance with the highway code (a rigid
bar), to move the vehicle on the road in readiness for towing or
transport via a breakdown vehicle.
The tow hook MUST NOT be used to tow vehicles off the road
or where there are obstacles and/or for towing operations using
cables or other non-rigid devices. In compliance with the above
conditions, towing must take place with the two vehicles (one
towing, the other towed) aligned as much as possible along the
same centre line.
38) ELECTRONIC CRUISE CONTROL
•Never move the shift lever to neutral when driving with the
device active.
• In the event of device malfunction or failure, contact a Fiat
Dealership.

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PERSONAL SAFETY
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42) INTERIORS
•Never use flammable products, such as petrol ether or rectified
petrol to clean the inside of the car. The electrostatic charges which
are generated by rubbing during the cleaning operation may cause
a fire.
•Do not keep aerosol cans in the vehicle: they might explode.
Aerosol cans must not be exposed to a temperature exceeding
50°C. When the vehicle is exposed to sunlight, the internal
temperature can greatly exceed this value.
43) TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – FUEL SUPPLY
Modifications or repairs to the supply system that are not carried
out correctly or do not take the system technical specifications
into account can cause malfunctions leading to the risk of fire.
44) TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS – RIM PROTECTOR
TYRES
DO NOT fit wheel hub caps when using integral hub caps fixed
(with springs) to the steel rim and after sale tyres provided with
Rim Protector. Use of unsuitable tyres and wheel caps may cause
sudden decrease of tyre pressure.
45) LPG
•Note that in some countries (including Italy) there are legal
restrictions in force for parking/garaging motor vehicles fuelled by
gas that is denser than air; LPG comes under this category.
•Do not switch between the two operating modes (petrol/LPG)
whilst starting the engine.
•The LPG supply system is equipped with a “consumption”
function linked to the LED display of LPG level on the switch; this
function activates only after a consistent variation in fuel level has
been detected. •Running the battery with an excessively low liquid level will
damage the battery beyond repair and could even cause its
explosion.
•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.
•When performing any operation on the battery or near it,
always protect your eyes with special goggles.
40) TYRES AND WHEELS
•Remember that the road holding qualities of your car also
depend on correct tyre pressures.
•If tyre pressure is too low, the tyre may overheat and be
severely damaged as a result.
•Do not switch tyres from the right hand side of the vehicle to the
left hand side, and vice versa.
•Never submit alloy rims to repainting treatments requiring the
use of temperatures exceeding 150°C.
The mechanical properties of the wheels could be impaired.
41) WINDSCREEN AND –REAR WINDOW WIPER
•Driving with worn windscreen/rear window wiper blades is a
serious hazard, because visibility is reduced in bad weather.
•If the window needs to be cleaned, make sure the device is
deactivated or the key is on STOP.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
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PERSONAL SAFETY
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It is therefore advisable to fill up with fuel at the first LPG
refuelling to obtain a more “precise” indication of the level.
•If gas is smelt, switch from LPG operation to petrol operation
and immediately go to a Fiat Dealership to have the vehicle
checked and possible system faults excluded.
46) ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION SYSTEMS
•The catalytic converter and particulate filter (DPF) reach very
high temperatures during operation.
Therefore, do not park the car on flammable materials (e.g.
grass, dry leaves, pine needles etc.) to avoid the risk of fire.
47) MULTIMEDIA
•Follow the safety rules provided: otherwise serious injuries
may occur to the occupants or the system may be damaged.
•If the volume is too loud this can be dangerous.
Adjust the volume so that you can still hear background noises
(e.g. horns, ambulances, police vehicles, etc.)
•Where provided, my:Car app is not intended to replace the
vehicle Owner Handbook.
•Do not carry out other operations during installation and wait
for its completion, in order not to affect correct operation of the
radio.48) iTPMS SYSTEM
•If the system signals a pressure decrease on one or more tyres,
it is recommended to always check the pressure on all four tyres.
•The iTPMS does not relieve the driver from the obligation to
check the tyre pressure every month; it is not to be considered a
system to replace maintenance or a safety system.
•Tyre pressure must be checked with tyres cold. Should it
become necessary for whatever reason to check pressure with
warm tyres, do not reduce pressure even though it is higher than
the prescribed value, but repeat the check when tyres are cold.
•The iTPMS cannot indicate sudden tyre pressure drops (for
example when a tyre bursts). In this case, stop the vehicle,
braking with
caution and avoiding abrupt steering.
•The system only warns that the tyre pressure is low: it is not
able to inflate them.
•Insufficient tyre inflation increases fuel consumption, reduces
the tread duration and may affect the capacity to drive safely.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
202
1) KEYS AND CODE CARD
•The electronic components inside the key may be damaged if
the key is subjected to strong shocks. In order to ensure
complete efficiency of the electronic devices inside the keys,
they should never be exposed to direct sunlight.
•All the keys and the CODE card must be handed over to the
new owner when selling the car.
2) SEATS
•The fabric upholstery of the seats has been designed to
withstand long-term wear deriving from normal use of the car.
Some precautions are however required. Avoid prolonged and/or
excessive rubbing against clothing accessories such as metal
buckles and Velcro strips which, by applying a high pressure on
the fabric in a small area, could cause it to break, thereby
damaging the upholstery.
•Before tilting the backrest, remove any objects on the seat
cushion.
3) CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM
Never use R12 coolant, which is not compatible with climate
control system components.
4) WINDSCREEN AND REAR WINDOW WIPER
•Do not use the windscreen or rear window wiper to remove
layers of snow or ice from the windscreen. In such conditions,
the windscreen and rear window wiper may be subjected to
excessive stress and the motor cut-out switch, which prevents
operation for a few seconds, may intervene. If operation is not restored, contact a Fiat Dealership.
•Do not operate the windscreen wiper with the blades lifted from
the windscreen:
• Do not activate the rain sensor or the rearscreen wiper when
washing the car in an automatic car wash.
• Make sure that the device is turned off if there is ice on the
windscreen.
5) SUNROOF
•Use the sunroof only at “spoiler” position if a transverse roof
rack is fitted.
•Do not open the sunroof if there is snow or ice on it: you may
damage it.
•Be careful not to hit objects on the storage shelf when you
open the tailgate.
6) SOFT TOP
•Never open the top in presence of snow or ice to prevent
damage.
•Do not place objects on the rear window shelf to prevent
damage while the top is closing.
•Loads may not be secured on the roof.
•Bird droppings must be washed off immediately and thoroughly
as the acid they contain is particularly aggressive.
•Never use high-pressure washing systems.
•When using steam washers or high-pressure water washers,
maintain a suitable distance and do not exceed a maximum
temperature of 60°C.
Damage, alterations and water infiltrations may occur if the
distance is too small.
•If a water jet is used, direct away from the edges of the fabric
and the rear window frame to prevent water infiltrations.
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203
•Never use alcohol, petrol, chemical products, detergents,
stain removers, wax, solvents and “wash and polish” products.
•Rinse immediate to remove soap to prevent stains. Repeat
the operation if needed.
•Rinse immediately, and repeat this operation if necessary.
If you choose to waterproof the soft top, strictly follow the
instructions on the package of the waterproofing product you
have selected in order to obtain optimal results.
•The rubber seals on the soft top must be cleaned exclusively
with water. If you notice that this trim is dry or is sticking, apply
talcum powder or products specifically for rubber trim (silicone
spray).
7) ROOF RACK/SKI RACK
The use of transversal bars on longitudinal ones prevents the
use of the sunroof, because the latter, while opening, interferes
with the bars. Therefore do not move the sunroof if transversal
bars have been fitted.
8) EOBD SYSTEM
If, when the ignition key is turned to the MAR position, the
Uwarning light either does not come on or, when driving, it
comes on constantly or flashing (along with a message in the
display, for versions/markets, where provided) contact a Fiat
Dealership as soon as possible. The operation of the
Uwarning light may be checked by traffic police using appropriate
equipment. Comply with the laws and regulations of the country
where you are driving.
9) DOORS
Make sure to take the key with you once a door or the tailgate
is locked, to prevent locking the same key inside the vehicle.
If the key has been locked in, it can only be recovered using
the second provided key.10) MULTIMEDIA
• Only clean the front panel and the display lens with a soft,
clean, dry, anti-static cloth.
Cleaning and polishing products may damage the surface. Never
use alcohol, petrols and derivatives.
• Do not use the display as a base for supports with suction pads
or adhesives for external navigators or smartphones or similar
devices
11) REFUELLING YOUR DIESEL ENGINE VEHICLE
Vehicles with a diesel engine must only be filled with diesel fuel for
motor vehicles, in compliance with European Standard EN 590.
The use of other products or mixtures may damage the engine
beyond repair and consequently invalidate the warranty, due to
the damage caused. If you accidentally introduce other types of
fuel into the tank, do not start the engine. Empty the tank. If the
engine has been run for even an extremely limited amount of time,
you must not only drain the fuel tank, but the rest of the supply
circuit as well.
12) SEAT BELTS - PRETENSIONERS
Operations which lead to impacts, vibrations or localised heating
(over 100°C for a maximum of six hours) in the area around the
pretensioner may damage or deploy it. Contact a Fiat Dealership
should intervention be necessary on these components.
13) STARTING AND STOPPING THE ENGINE
• It is advisable not to demand maximum performance from your
car (e.g. excessive accelerations, long distances at top rpm,
excessive intense braking, etc.) as soon as the engine is started.
• When the engine is switched off never leave the key turned to
MAR to prevent useless current absorption from draining the
battery.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
204(CONTINUES)
• Warning light mwill blink for 60 seconds after starting or
during prolonged cranking to indicate a fault to the glow plug
heating system.
Use the car normally if the engine starts and go to a Fiat
Dealership as soon as possible.
• Never bump start the engine by pushing, towing or coasting
downhill. This could cause fuel to flow into the catalytic
converter and damage it beyond repair.
• Never use a fast battery-charger to start the engine as this could
damage the electronic systems of your vehicle, particularly the
ignition and engine fuel supply control units.
• Do not connect the cable to the negative terminal (–) of the flat
battery. The following spark could lead to battery explosion and
cause serious harm.
Only use the specific earth point; do not use
any other exposed metallic part.
• A quick burst on the accelerator before turning off the engine
serves absolutely no practical purpose; it wastes fuel and is
especially damaging to turbocharged engines.
14) USING THE GEARBOX: MANUAL AND DUALOGIC
• Do not drive with your hand resting on the gear lever as the
force exerted, even if slight, could lead over time to premature
wear of the gearbox internal components.
• If the gearbox is faulty, contact a Fiat Dealership as soon as
possible to have the system checked.
• Avoid keeping your hand placed on this lever in between
gear changes or Auto/Manual mode.
• Using the paddles incorrectly (paddles pushed towards the
dashboard) could break them.• In order to safeguard the efficiency of the clutch, do not use the
accelerator to keep the car still (for example:
stopped on a hill); the clutch could overheat and be damaged;
use the brake pedal and only operate the accelerator pedal when
you decide to set off.
• If the messages continue to be shown in the display, contact a
Fiat Dealership.
15) SNOW CHAINS
• Keep the vehicle’s speed down when snow chains are fitted;
never exceed 50 km/h.
• With snow chains, use the accelerator with extreme care to
prevent, or to limit as much as possible, slipping of the drive
wheels that could cause chain breakage, resulting in damage to
the car body or mechanical components.
• Avoid potholes, steps and pavements and avoid driving long
distances on roads not covered with snow to avoid damaging the
car and the roadbed.
16) POWER SOCKET
Only accessories with a maximum power of 180 W (maximum
absorption 15 A)
can be connected to the socket.
17) DIESEL FILTER
The presence of water in the supply circuit may cause severe
damage to the injection system and irregular engine operation.
If the warning light or the symbol
Eon the colour display turns
on, contact a Fiat Dealership as soon as possible to have the
system bled.
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If the above indication occurs immediately after refuelling,
water may have entered the tank: turn the engine off
immediately and contact a Fiat Dealership.
19) BULBS AND FUSES
• Halogen bulbs must be handled holding the metallic part
only. Touching the transparent part of the bulb with your
fingers may reduce the intensity of the emitted light and even
compromise duration of the lamp. In the event of accidental
contact, wipe the bulb with a cloth moistened with alcohol and
let the bulb dry.
• Where possible, it is advisable to have bulbs changed at a
Fiat Dealership.
The correct operation and direction of the external lights are
absolutely essential for the safety of the car and of compliance
with the law.
• The intervention must be carried out taking all precautions
necessary to avoid damaging the bodywork (use a sufficiently
rigid and appropriately thick plastic card).
• If you need to wash the engine compartment, take care not
to directly hit the engine compartment fuse box
with the water jet.
20) LIFTING THE CAR
For versions equipped with side-skirts, pay particular attention
when positioning the lift arms at the workshop.
21) SCHEDULED SERVICING PLAN
• Petrol versions: If the vehicle is used mainly around town or
is driven less than 10,000 km annually, the engine oil and
engine oil filter must be changed every 12 months. • Diesel versions: If the car is used mainly for town driving, the
engine oil and filter should be changed every 12 months.
22) SERVICING: CHECKING LEVELS
• When topping up, take care not to mix up the various types of
fluids: they are not compatible with each other and could
seriously damage the car.
• Do not add oil with specifications other than those
of the oil already existing in the engine.
• The use of products with specifications other than those
indicated above could cause damage to the engine not covered
by the warranty.
• Prevent brake fluid, which is highly corrosive, from coming into
contact with painted parts while checking.
Should it happen, immediately wash with water.
23) PARAFLU
UP
PARAFLUUPanti-freeze is used in the engine cooling system.
Use the same fluid as in the cooling system when topping up.
PARAFLU
UPcannot be mixed with any other type of fluid.
If this occurs, do not start the engine and contact your Fiat
Dealership immediately.
24) BATTERY REPLACEMENT
Incorrect installation of electric and electronic devices may cause
severe damage to your car. After purchasing your vehicle, if you
wish to install any accessories (anti-theft, etc.), go to a Fiat
Dealership, which will suggest the most suitable devices and
advise you whether a higher capacity battery needs to be
installed.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
206(CONTINUES)
25) PARKING SENSORS
• The sensor must be free of mud, dirt, snow or ice in order for
the system to work. Be careful not to scratch or damage the
sensors while cleaning them. Avoid using dry, rough or hard
cloths. The sensors must be washed using clean water, with
the addition of vehicle shampoo if necessary.
When using special washing equipment such as high pressure
jets or steam cleaning, clean the sensors very quickly keeping
the jet more than 10 cm away.
• Have interventions on the bumper in the area of the sensors
carried out only by a Fiat Dealership. Interventions on the
bumper that are not carried out properly may compromise the
operation of the parking sensors.
26) DECAYED ENGINE OIL
To prevent damage to the engine, it is advisable to replace the
engine oil when the red
vwarning light switches on, or
when the yellow vwarning light comes on solid (for versions/markets, where
provided). Contact a Fiat Dealership.
27) BODYWORK
• Avoid washing with rollers and/or brushes in washing stations.
Then, wash the vehicle, only by hand, using pH-neutral
detergents; dry it with a wet chamois leather. Abrasive products
and/or polishes should not be used for cleaning the vehicle.
• Bird droppings must be washed off immediately and
thoroughly as the acid they contain is particularly aggressive. • Avoid (if at all possible) parking the vehicle under trees; remove
vegetable resins immediately as, when dried, it may only be
possible to remove them with abrasive products and/or polishes,
which is highly inadvisable as they could alter the typical
opaqueness of the paint.
• It is not advisable to wash with pressure washer or, in case of
use, it is necessary to maintain at least a minimum distance of 40
cm with water at room temperature.
28) WINDOWS
Do not use pure windscreen washer fluid for cleaning the front
windscreen and rear window - dilute it at least 50% with water.
29 LPG
• The car is equipped with a gaseous LPG injection system
designed specifically for it: it is therefore absolutely forbidden to
alter the configuration of the system or its components. The use of
other components or materials could cause malfunctions and lead
to a reduction in safety; therefore, contact a Fiat Dealership in the
case of fault.
• The system operates at temperatures ranging between −20°C
and 100°C.
• To prevent damage to the LPG system parts when towing or
raising the vehicle, follow the instructions in the “Towing the
vehicle” paragraph of the Owner Handbook.
• When painting in an oven, the LPG tank must be removed from
the car and later refitted by a Fiat Dealership.
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VEHICLE SAFETY