2018 FIAT FULLBACK maintenance

To add coolant
The cooling system is a closed system
and normally the loss of coolant should
be very slight. A noticeable drop in the
coolant level could indicate leakage. If
this occurs, we recommend you to
have the system checked as soon as
possible. If the level should drop below
the “L” (LOW) level on the reserve tank,
open the lid and add coolant.
Also, if the reserve tank is completely
empty, remove the radiator cap (B) and
add coolant until the level reaches the
filler neck.
377) 378)
Anti-freeze
The engine coolant contains an
ethylene glycol anti-corrosion agent.
Some parts of the engine are cast
aluminium alloy, and periodic changing
of the engine coolant is necessary to
prevent corrosion of these parts.
Use the recommended coolant by Fiat
or equivalent (similar high quality
ethylene glycol based non-silicate,
non-amine, nonnitrate and nonborate
coolant with long life hybrid organic
acid technology).
Fiat genuine coolant has excellent
protection against corrosion and rust
formation of all metals including
aluminium and can avoid blockages in
the radiator, heater, cylinder head,
engine block, etc.Because of the necessity of this
anti-corrosion agent, the coolant must
not be replaced with plain water even in
summer. The required concentration of
anti-freeze differs depending on the
expected ambient temperature.
Above -35 °C: 50 % concentration of
antifreeze
Below -35 °C: 60 % concentration of
antifreeze
183) 184) 185) 186) 187)
During cold weather
If the temperatures in your area drop
below freezing, there is the danger that
the coolant in the engine or radiator
could freeze and cause severe damage
to the engine and/or radiator. Add a
sufficient amount of antifreeze to the
coolant to prevent it from freezing.
The concentration should be checked
before the start of cold weather and
anti-freeze added to the system if
necessary.
WARNING
377)The used engine oil and the filter that
has been replaced contain substances that
are harmful to the environment. To change
the oil and filters, we advise you to contact
a Fiat Dealership.
378)Do not open the radiator cap (B) while
the engine is hot. The coolant system is
under pressure and any hot coolant
escaping could cause severe burns.
IMPORTANT
183)Do not use alcohol or methanol
anti-freeze or any engine coolants mixed
with alcohol or methanol anti-freeze. The
use of an improper anti-freeze can cause
corrosion of the aluminium components.
184)Concentrations exceeding 60 % will
result in a reduction of both the anti-freeze
and cooling performance thus adversely
affecting the engine.
185)Do not top up with water only.
186)PARAFLU UP anti-freeze is used in
the engine cooling system. Use fluid of the
same type as that contained in the cooling
system for any top-ups. PARAFLU UP
cannot be mixed with any other type of
fluid. If this happens, do not start the
engine under any circumstances and
contact a Fiat Dealership.
187)Do not use water to adjust the
concentration of coolant.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Fluid type
Use brake fluid conforming to DOT3 or
DOT4. The brake fluid is hygroscopic.
Too much moisture in the brake fluid will
adversely affect the brake system,
reducing the brake performance.
In addition, the brake fluid reservoir is
equipped with a special cap to prevent
the entrance of air, and this cap should
not be removed.
381) 382) 383) 384) 385) 386) 387)
188) 189) 190)
WARNING
381)Take care in handling brake fluid as it
is harmful to the eyes, may irritate your skin
and will damage to painted surfaces. Wipe
up spills immediately. If brake fluid gets on
your hands or in your eyes, flush
immediately with clean water. Follow up
with a doctor as necessary.
382)Some commercial windscreen washer
additives are flammable. The engine
compartment contains hot parts which
could start a fire on contact.
383)Do not travel with the windscreen
washer reservoir empty: the windscreen
washer is essential for improving visibility.
384)The cooling system is pressurised. If
necessary, only replace the plug with
another original one or the operation of the
system may be adversely affected. Do not
remove the reservoir plug when the engine
is hot: risk of burns.385)Use only the specified brake fluid. Do
not mix or add different brand of brake fluid
to prevent chemical reaction. Do not let
any petroleum-based fluid touch, mix with,
or get into the brake fluid. This will damage
the seals.
386)Clean the filler cap before removing
and close the cap securely after
maintenance.
387)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.
IMPORTANT
188)Keep the reservoir tank cap closed to
prevent the brake fluid from deteriorating
except maintenance.
189)Prevent brake fluid, which is highly
corrosive, from coming into contact with
painted parts. Should it happen,
immediately wash with water.
190)The symbol
, on the brake fluid
container indicates if a brake fluid is
synthetic or mineral-based. Use of mineral
type fluids will damage the special rubber
seals of the braking system beyond repair.
CLUTCH FLUID
(where provided)
To check the fluid level
The clutch fluid in the master cylinder
should be checked when performing
other underhood service. In addition,
the system should be checked for
leakage at the same time.
Check to make certain that the clutch
fluid level is always between the “MAX”
and “MIN” level markings on the fluid
reservoir.
A rapid fluid loss indicates a leak in the
clutch system which should be
immediately inspected by a Fiat
Dealership.
Fluid type
Brake fluid conforming to DOT 3 or
DOT 4 should be used. The reservoir
cap must be fully tightened to avoid
contamination from foreign matter or
moisture. DO NOT ALLOW
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

BATTERY
4)
The condition of the battery is very
important for quick starting of the
engine and proper functioning of the
vehicle’s electrical system. Regular
inspection and care are especially
important in cold weather.
390) 391) 392) 393) 394) 395) 396) 397)
Checking battery electrolyte level
The electrolyte level must be between
the specified limit on the outside of the
battery. Replenish with distilled water as
necessary. The inside of the battery is
divided into several compartments;
remove the cap from each
compartment and fill to the upper mark.
Do not top up beyond the upper mark
because spillage during driving could
cause damage.Check the electrolyte level at least once
every four weeks, depending on the
operating conditions. If the battery is
not used, it will discharge by itself with
time.
Check it once every four weeks and
charge with low current as necessary.
During cold weather
The capacity of the battery is reduced
at low temperatures. This is an
inevitable result of its chemical and
physical properties. This is why a very
cold battery, particularly one that is not
fully charged will only deliver a fraction
of the starter current which is normally
available.
We recommend you to have the battery
checked before the start of cold
weather and, if necessary, have it
charged or replaced. This does not only
ensure reliable starting, but a battery
which is kept fully charged also has a
longer life.
Disconnection and connection
191) 192) 193) 194) 195) 196) 197) 198)
To disconnect the battery cable, stop
the engine, first disconnect the negative
(-) terminal and then the positive (+)
terminal. When connecting the battery,
first connect the positive (+) terminal
and then the negative (-) terminal.
NOTE Open the terminal cover (A)
before disconnecting or connecting the
positive (+) terminal of the battery.NOTE Loosen the nut (B), and then
disconnect the battery cable from the
positive (+) terminal.
Type 1
Type 2
NOTE Keep the terminals clean. After
the battery is connected, apply terminal
protection grease. To clean the
terminals, use lukewarm water.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

WIPER BLADE
REPLACEMENT
398)
199)
1. Lift the wiper arm off the windscreen.
2. Pull the wiper blade until its stopper
(A) disengages from the hook (B). Then,
pull the wiper blade further to remove it.
NOTE Do not allow the wiper arm to
fall onto the windscreen; it could
damage the glass.
3. Attach the retainers (C) to a new
wiper blade. Refer to the illustration to
ensure that the retainers are correctly
aligned as you attach them.4. Insert the wiper blade into the arm,
starting with the opposite end of the
blade from the stopper. Make sure the
hook (B) is fitted correctly in the
grooves in the blade.
NOTE If retainers are not supplied with
the new wiper blade, use the retainers
from the old blade.
5. Push the wiper blade until the hook
(B) engages securely with the stopper
(A).
IMPORTANT
199)Do not operate the windscreen wiper
with the blades lifted from the windscreen.
WARNING
398)Driving with worn windscreen/rear
window wiper blades is a serious hazard,
because visibility is reduced in bad
weather.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

GENERAL
MAINTENANCE
Fuel, engine coolant, oil and
exhaust gas leakage
Look under the body of your vehicle to
check for fuel, engine coolant, oil and
exhaust gas leaks.
Exterior and interior lamp operation
Operate the combination lamp switch
to check that all lamps are functioning
properly. If the lamps do not illuminate,
the probable cause is a blown fuse or
defective lamp bulb. Check the fuses
first. If there is no blown fuses, check
the lamp bulbs. For information
regarding the inspection and
replacement of the fuses and the bulbs,
refer to “Fuses” and “Replacement of
lamp bulbs”.
Meter, gauge and indicator/
warning lamps operation
Start the engine to check the operation
of all instruments, gauges, and indicator
and warning lamps. If there is anything
wrong, we recommend you to have
your vehicle inspected.
Hinges and latches lubrication
Check all latches and hinges, and, if
necessary, have them lubricated.
VEHICLE CARE
PRECAUTIONS
399)
200)
5)
In order to maintain the value of your
vehicle, it is necessary to perform
regular maintenance using the proper
procedures.
Always maintain your vehicle in
compliance with any environmental
pollution control regulations.
Carefully select the materials used for
washing, etc., to be sure that they do
not contain corrosives. If in doubt, we
recommend you to consult a specialist
for the selection of these materials.
WARNING
399)Cleaning products can be dangerous.
Always follow the instructions of the
cleaning product supplier.
IMPORTANT
200)To avoid damage, never use the
following to clean your vehicle: Petrol; Paint
Thinner; Benzine; Kerosene; Turpentine;
Naphtha; Lacquer Thinner; Carbon
Tetrachloride; Nail Polish Remover;
Acetone.
IMPORTANT
5)Detergents pollute the environment. Only
wash your vehicle in areas equipped to
collect and treat wastewater from this type
of activity.
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CLEANING THE
INTERIOR OF YOUR
VEHICLE
After cleaning the interior of your vehicle
with water, cleaner or similar, wipe and
dry in a shady, well-ventilated area.
NOTE If your vehicle has the demister
heater element of the rear window, to
clean the inside of the rear window,
always use a soft cloth and wipe the
window glass along the demister heater
element so as not to cause damage.
400) 401)
201)
Plastic, fabric and flocked parts
1. Lightly wipe these off with a soft
cloth soaked in a mild soap and water
solution.
2. Dip cloth in fresh water and wring it
out well. Using this cloth, wipe off the
detergent thoroughly.
NOTE Do not use cleaners,
conditioners, and protectants
containing silicones or wax. Such
products, when applied to the
instrument panels or other parts, may
cause reflections on the windscreen
and obscure vision. Also, if such
products get on the switches of the
electrical accessories, it may lead to
failure of these accessories.Upholstery
1. To maintain the value of your new
vehicle, handle the upholstery carefully
and keep the interior clean. Use a
vacuum cleaner and brush to clean the
seats. If stained, synthetic leather
should be cleaned with an appropriate
cleaner. Cloth fabrics can be cleaned
with either upholstery cleaner or a mild
soap and water solution.
2. Clean the carpeting with a vacuum
cleaner and remove any stains with
carpet cleaner. Oil and grease can be
removed by lightly dabbing with a clean
colourfast cloth and stain remover.
Genuine leather (where provided)
1. To clean, lightly wipe the leather with
a soft cloth soaked in a mild soap and
water solution.
2. Dip cloth in fresh water and wring it
out well. Using this cloth, wipe off the
detergent thoroughly.
3. Apply leather protecting agent to the
genuine leather surface.
NOTE If genuine leather is wet with
water or is washed in water, wipe off
water as quickly as possible with a dry,
soft cloth. If left damp, mildew may
grow.
NOTE Organic solvents such as
benzine, kerosene, alcohol and petrol,
acid or alkaline solvents may discolour
the genuine leather surface. Be sure to
use neutral detergents.NOTE Remove oil substances quickly
as they can stain genuine leather.
NOTE The genuine leather surface may
harden and shrink if it is exposed to
direct rays of the sun for long hours.
When your vehicle is parked, place it in
the shade as much as possible.
NOTE When the temperature of the
vehicle interior rises in summer, vinyl
products left on the genuine leather
seat may deteriorate and stick to the
seat.
WARNING
400)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.
401)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.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Doing so could cause stains or damage
the finish.
Cleaning plastic parts
Use a sponge or chamois leather. If a
car wax adheres on a grey or black
rough surface of the bumper, moulding
or lamps, the surface becomes white.
In such a case, wipe it off using
lukewarm water and soft cloth or
chamois leather.
212) 213)
Chrome parts
In order to prevent spots and corrosion
of chrome parts, wash with water, dry
thoroughly, and apply a special
protective coating. This should be done
more frequently in winter.
Aluminium wheels (if so equipped)
Remove dirt using a sponge while
sprinkling water on the wheel.Use
neutral detergent on any dirt that
cannot be removed easily with
water. Rinse off the neutral
detergent after washing the
wheel.Dry the wheel thoroughly
using a chamois leather or a soft
cloth.
214) 215) 216) 217)
Window glass
The window glass can normally be
cleaned using only a sponge and water.
Glass cleaner can be used to removeoil, grease, insect carcasses, etc. After
washing the glass, wipe it dry with a
clean, dry, soft cloth. Never use a cloth
that is used for cleaning a painted
surface to clean a window. Wax from
the painted surface could get on the
glass and lower glass transparency and
visibility.
NOTE To clean the inside of the rear
window, always use a soft cloth and
wipe the window glass along the
demister heater element so as not to
cause damage.
Wiper blades
Use a soft cloth and glass cleaner to
remove grease, insect carcasses, etc.,
from the wiper blades. Replace the
wiper blades when they no longer wipe
properly.
Engine compartment
Clean the engine compartment at the
beginning and end of winter. Pay
particular attention to flanges, crevices
and peripheral parts where dust
containing road chemicals and other
corrosive materials might collect.
If salt and other chemicals are used on
the roads in your area, clean the engine
compartment at least every three
months.
Never spray or splash water on the
electrical components in the engine
compartment, as this may cause
damage.Do not bring the nearby parts, the
plastic parts and so on into contact
with sulphuric acid (battery electrolyte)
which may crack, stain or discolour
them.
If they are in contact, wipe off with soft
cloth, chamois or the like and an
aqueous solution of neutral detergent
then immediately rinse the affected
parts with plenty of water.
Versions with tonneau cover
Hand washing is recommended for the
tonneau cover; modern automatic
washing systems equipped with soft
brushes which do not apply excessive
pressure with specific products may be
used.
Never use high-pressure washing
systems. If a water jet is used, direct
away from the edges of the fabric and
the rear window to prevent water
infiltration.
Versions with stickers or wrapping
To correctly clean and wash the stickers
and/or wrapping parts, proceed as
follows:
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.
If high pressure jets or cleaners are
used to wash the vehicle, hold at least
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

206)Refrain from excessively using a car
wash as its brushes may scratch the paint
surface, causing it to lose its gloss.
Scratches will be especially visible on
darker coloured vehicles.
207)Never spray or splash water on the
electrical components in the engine
compartment. Doing so could have an
adverse effect on the engine startability.
Exercise caution also when washing the
underbody; be careful not to spray water
into the engine compartment.
208)Some types of hot water washing
equipment apply high pressure and heat to
the vehicle. They may cause heat distortion
and damage to the vehicle resin parts and
may result in flooding of the vehicle interior.
Therefore maintain a good distance of
approx. 70 cm or more between the vehicle
body and the washing nozzle. Also, when
washing around the door glass, hold the
nozzle at a distance of more than 70 cm
and at right angles to the glass surface.
209)After washing the vehicle, drive the
vehicle slowly while lightly depressing the
brake pedal several times in order to dry
out the brakes. Leaving the brakes wet
could result in reduced braking
performance. Also, there is a possibility that
they could freeze up or become inoperative
due to rust, rendering the vehicle unable to
move.210)Using an automatic car wash, pay
attention to the following items, referring to
the operation manual or consulting a car
wash operator. If the following procedure is
not followed, it could result in damage to
your vehicle: 1 – the outside rear view
mirrors are retracted.2–Ifyour vehicle is
equipped with the pillar antenna, it can be
retracted. If your vehicle is equipped with
the roof antenna, it can be removed. 3 –
The wiper arms are secured in place with
tape.4–Ifyour vehicle has rain sensor
wipers, place the wiper switch lever in the
“OFF” position to deactivate the rain
sensor.
211)Waxes containing high abrasive
compounds should not be used.
212)Do not use a scrubbing brush or other
hard tools as they may damage the plastic
part surface.
213)Do not bring the plastic parts into
contact with petrol, light oil, brake fluids,
engine oils, greases, paint thinners and
sulphuric acid (battery electrolyte) which
may crack, stain or discolour the plastic
parts. If they touch the plastic parts, wipe
them off with soft cloth, chamois or the like
and an aqueous solution of neutral
detergent then immediately rinse the
affected parts with water.
214)Do not use a brush or other hard
implement on the wheels. Doing so could
scratch the wheels.
215)Do not use any cleaner that contains
an abrasive substance or is acidic or
alkaline. Doing so could cause the coating
on the wheels to peel or become
discoloured or stained.
216)Do not directly apply hot water using a
steam cleaner or by any other means.217)Contact with seawater and road
deicer can cause corrosion. Rinse off such
substances as soon as possible.
IMPORTANT
6)Detergents pollute the environment. Only
wash your vehicle in areas equipped to
collect and treat waste water from this type
of activity.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE