2020 FIAT 500 handbrake

READ THIS CAREFULLY
REFUELLING
Petrol engines: only refuel with unleaded petrol with octane rating (RON) not less than 95 in compliance with the European specification
EN228. Using these mixtures may cause misfiring and driving issues, as well as damage fundamental components of the supply system.
LPG engines: refuel only with LPG for motor vehicles conforming to the European specification EN589. The use of other products or
mixtures may damage the engine beyond repair and consequently invalidate the warranty, due to the damage caused.
For further details on the use of the correct fuel see the "Refuelling the vehicle" paragraph in the "Starting and driving" chapter.
STARTING THE ENGINE
Make sure that the handbrake is engaged and place the gear lever in neutral. Fully press the clutch pedal, without pressing the accelerator,
then turn the ignition key to MAR and wait for thewarning light to turn off; turn the ignition key to AVV and release it as soon as the
engine starts.
Versions with Dualogic gearbox: make sure that the handbrake is engaged and that the gear lever is in P (Parking) or N (Neutral), fully
depress the brake pedal, then turn the ignition key to AVV and release it as soon as the engine is started.
PARKING ON FLAMMABLE MATERIAL
The catalytic converter develops high temperatures during operation. Do not park the car on grass, dry leaves, pine needles or other
flammable material: fire hazard.
RESPECTING THE ENVIRONMENT
The vehicle is fitted with a system that carries out a continuous diagnosis of the emission-related components in order to help protect the
environment.
ELECTRICAL ACCESSORIES
If, after buying the vehicle, you decide to add electrical accessories (with the risk of gradually draining the battery), contact a Fiat Dealership.
They can calculate the overall electrical requirement and check that the vehicle's electric system can support the required load.
SCHEDULED SERVICING
Correct maintenance of the car is essential for ensuring that it maintains its performance and its safety features, its environmental friendliness
and low running costs for a long time to come.

STEERING LOCK
5)
Engagement:when the key is in
position STOP, remove the key and turn
the steering wheel until it is locked.
Disengagement:move the steering
wheel slightly as you turn the ignition
key to MAR.
WARNING
2)If the ignition device has been tampered
with (e.g. an attempted theft), have it
checked by a Fiat Dealership before driving
again.
3)Always remove the key when you leave
your car to prevent someone from
accidentally operating the controls.
Remember to engage the handbrake.
Engage first gear if the vehicle is parked
uphill or reverse if the vehicle is parked
downhill. Never leave children unattended
in the vehicle.
4)Never remove the key while the car is
moving. The steering wheel would
automatically lock as soon as you try to
turn it. This holds true for cars being towed
as well.
5)It is absolutely forbidden to carry out any
after-market operation involving steering
system or steering column modifications
(e.g. installation of anti-theft device) that
could adversely affect performance and
safety, invalidate the warranty and also
result in the car not meeting type-approval
requirements.
THE FIAT CODE
SYSTEM
This is an electronic engine locking
system which increases protection
against attempted thefts of the car. It is
automatically activated when the
ignition key is removed.
Each time the vehicle is started by
turning the ignition key to MAR, the Fiat
CODE system control unit sends a
recognition code to the Powertrain
Control Module to deactivate the
immobiliser.
If, during starting, the code has not
been correctly recognised, the
warning light switches on in the
instrument panel; on some versions a
symbol is shown on the display instead.
In this case, turn the key to STOP and
then to MAR; if it is still locked, try again
with the other keys that come with the
car. Contact a Fiat Dealership if you
still cannot start the engine.
IMPORTANT Each key has its own
code which must be stored by the
system's control unit. Contact a Fiat
Dealership to have new keys (up to 8)
stored with a code.
DOORS
6)
2)
OPENING/CLOSING WITH
KEY
To open from outside (driver's side
door):rotate the key to 1 fig. 7 and
pull the handle.
On versions with central locking, when
the key is turned, the doors and the
tailgate are simultaneously unlocked.
To lock from outside:with driver's
side door completely closed, turn
the key to position 2 fig. 7.
It is possible to lock the passenger side
door only from inside bringing the
handle to position 2 fig. 8.
7F0S0099
12
KNOWING YOUR CAR

33)For safety reasons, the bonnet must
always be properly closed while the car is
travelling. Make sure that the bonnet is
properly closed and that the lock is
engaged. If you notice when driving that
the bonnet has not been properly locked,
stop immediately and close the bonnet
correctly.
34)Use both hands to lift the bonnet.
Before lifting, check that the windscreen
wiper arms are not raised from the
windscreen, that the vehicle is stationary
and that the handbrake is engaged.VERSION WITH LPG
SYSTEM
25)
INTRODUCTION
The "LPG" version of the car features
two fuel systems, one for petrol and
one for LPG. Like the petrol system, the
LPG system is timed, sequential
multipoint type with special injectors.
PASSIVE SAFETY / ACTIVE SAFETY
35) 36)
26) 27)
Passive safety
The car has the same passive safety
specifications as other versions. In
particular, the tank mountings (located
in the spare wheel housing) have been
designed to exceed the Fiat safety
standards for impact tests.
Active safety
The car has the same active safety
specifications as other versions.Although the LPG system has
numerous safety features, it is advisable
to proceed as follows every time the
car is not in use for a long period or
moved in an emergency as a result of a
fault or accident:
unscrew the fixing devices A fig. 41,
then remove the cover B;
close the LPG cock by rotating the
knurled ring nut C fig. 42 clockwise;
41F0S0541
42F0S0531
35

Warning light What it means
redAIR BAG FAILURE
The warning light switches on when the ignition key is turned to MAR, but it should switch off after a few
seconds.
The warning light stays on constantly if there is a fault in the airbag system. On some versions the display
shows the dedicated message.39) 40)
WARNING
39)If, when turning the key to MAR, thewarning light does not switch on or if it stays on when travelling, there could be a fault in the
restraint systems; in this event airbags or pretensioners may not be deployed in the event of impact or, in a lower number of cases, they may
deploy accidentally. Contact a Fiat Dealership immediately to have the system checked.
40)The
warning light failure is indicated, depending on the version, by thesymbol on the display which switches on or by thewarning light flashing. In this case thewarning light may not indicate possible failures to the restraint systems. Before continuing,
contact a Fiat Dealership immediately to have the system checked.
Warning light What it means
redLOW BRAKE FLUID/HANDBRAKE ENGAGED
The warning light switches on when the ignition key is turned to MAR, but it should switch off after a few
seconds.
Low brake fluid level
The warning light turns on when the level of the brake fluid in the reservoir falls below the minimum level,
possibly due to a leak in the circuit. On some versions the display shows the dedicated message.
41)
Handbrake engaged
The warning light switches on when the handbrake is engaged.
On certain versions, if the car is moving the acoustic warning will also sound.
IMPORTANT If the warning light turns on when travelling, check that the handbrake is not engaged.
48
KNOWING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL

58) 59) 60) 61) 62) 63)
HH (Hill Holder) SYSTEM
This is an integral part of the ESC
system and facilitates starting on
slopes, activating automatically in the
following cases:
uphill: car stationary on a road with
a gradient higher than 5%, engine
running, brake pressed and gearbox in
neutral or gear (other than reverse)
engaged;
downhill: car stationary on a road
with a gradient higher than 5%, engine
running, brake pressed and reverse
gear engaged.
When setting off, the ESC system
control unit maintains the braking
pressure on the wheels until the engine
torque necessary for starting is
reached, or in any case for a maximum
of 2 seconds, allowing your right foot
to be moved easily from the brake
pedal to the accelerator.
When the 2 seconds have elapsed,
without starting, the system is
automatically deactivated, gradually
releasing the braking pressure.
During this release stage, the typical
mechanical brake release noise can be
heard, indicating that the car is about
to move.Moving the car on sloping roads
For optimal starting on very steep
gradients, as follows:
Press the brake pedal to activate the
Hill Holder;
completely press the clutch pedal;
engage the gear;
remove your foot from the brake
pedal;
completely press the accelerator
pedal.
In this manner, the engine goes to the
optimal rpm for taking off uphill. The Hill
Holder remains engaged (car braked)
until the clutch is gradually released
(holding the accelerator pedal pressed):
at this point, the system switches off
and the car starts moving. The Hill
Holder function switches off
automatically if the cars does not
take-off within 2 seconds.
The manoeuvre makes it possible to
avoid pressing the accelerator (because
it must remain fully pressed during the
manoeuvre) and to operate only the
clutch, by gradually releasing it.
Operating the handbrake is not
necessary.
On less steep gradients, the system is
active also with the accelerator pedal
not completely pressed.
64) 65)
ASR (AntiSlip
Regulation) SYSTEM
This is an integral part of the ESC
system and automatically operates in
the event of one or both drive wheels
slipping, loss of grip on wet roads
(aquaplaning) and acceleration
on slippery, snowy or icy roads, etc.
Depending on the slipping conditions,
two different control systems are
activated:
if the slipping involves both drive
wheels, the ASR system intervenes,
reducing the power transmitted by the
engine;
if the slipping only involves one of
the drive wheels, it also intervenes
automatically, braking the wheel that is
slipping.
System intervention
This is indicated by the flashing of the
warning light on the instrument panel,
to inform the driver that the car is in
critical stability and grip conditions.
69

56)If the space-saver wheel (where
provided) is used, the ABS system keeps
operating. Always remember that the
space-saver wheel, being smaller than the
original wheel, provides less grip.
57)The ABS gets the most from the
available grip, but it cannot improve it; you
should therefore take every care when
driving on slippery surfaces and not take
unnecessary risks.
58)For the correct operation of the ESC
system, the tyres must necessarily be
of the same make and type on all wheels,
in perfect condition and, above all, of
the prescribed type and size.
59)The ESC functions even when the
space-saver wheel is being used. Always
remember that the space-saver wheel,
being smaller than the original wheel,
provides less grip.
60)ESC performance features must not
induce the driver to take unnecessary
or unfounded risks. Your driving style must
always be suited to the road conditions,
visibility and traffic. The driver is always
responsible for road safety.
61)The ESC system cannot alter the
natural laws of physics, and cannot
increase grip, which depends on the
condition of the road.
62)The ESC system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
63)The capability of the ESC system must
never be tested irresponsibly and
dangerously, in such a way as to
compromise personal safety and the safety
of others.64)The HH system is not a parking brake,
therefore do not leave the vehicle without
activating the handbrake, switching off
the engine, and engaging first gear, with
the vehicle parked in safe conditions.
65)There may be situations on small
gradients (less than 8%), with car laden or
a trailer attached to it (where provided),
in which the HH system may not activate,
causing a slight reversing motion and
increasing the risk of collision with another
vehicle or object. The driver is, in any
case, responsible for safe driving.
66)For the correct operation of the ASR
system, it is essential that the tyres are
of the same make and type on all wheels,
in perfect condition and, above all, of
the specified type and dimensions.
67)If the space-saver wheel (where
provided) is used, the ASR system keeps
operating. Always remember that the
space-saver wheel, being smaller than the
original wheel, provides less grip.
68)The ASR cannot overrule the natural
laws of physics, and cannot increase
the grip available according to the
condition of the road.
69)The ASR system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
70)The capability of the ASR must never
be tested irresponsibly and dangerously, in
such a way as to compromise personal
safety and the safety of others.71)Do not take unnecessary risks, even if
your vehicle is fitted with an ASR system.
Your driving style must always be suited to
the road conditions, visibility and traffic.
The driver is always responsible for road
safety.
72)The HBA system cannot increase tyre
grip on the road over the limits imposed by
laws of physics: always drive carefully
according to the conditions of the road
surface.
73)The HBA system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on bends, travelling on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
74)The HBA system is an aid for the driver,
who must always pay full attention while
driving. The responsibility always rests with
the driver.
75)The capability of the HBA system must
never be tested irresponsibly and
dangerously in such a way as to
compromise the safety of the driver,
occupants or other road users.
76)When the HBA system intervenes,
noises may be heard from the system. This
is normal. In any case, while braking keep
the brake pedal firmly depressed.
71

STARTING THE
ENGINE
121) 122)
36) 37) 39) 40)
Before starting the engine, adjust the
seat, the interior rear view mirrors,
the door mirrors and fasten the seat
belt correctly.
Never press the accelerator pedal for
starting the engine.
The Start&Stop, ECO and AUTO
functions are activated automatically
whenever the engine is started.
PETROL VERSIONS
Starting the engine
Proceed as follows:
engage the handbrake and put the
gear lever in neutral;
fully depress the clutch pedal
without touching the accelerator;
turn the ignition key to AVV and
release it as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine does not start at the
first attempt, return the ignition key to
STOP before repeating the starting
procedure.If, when the ignition key is at MAR, the
instrument panel warning light or the
symbol
remains lit together with
warning light
turn the key to STOP
and then back to MAR. If the warning
light remains on, try with the other keys
provided with the car.
Contact a Fiat Dealership if you still
cannot start the engine.
VERSIONS WITH
DUALOGIC
TRANSMISSION
123)
The system allows the engine to be
started both with a gear engaged and
with the transmission in neutral (N).
However, the brake pedal must always
be pressed first if neutral is not
engaged. It is therefore advisable to
position the gear lever at N before
starting the engine.
LPG VERSIONS
The engine always starts up on petrol
independently of the previously
selected mode.
38)
WARNING
121)It is dangerous to run the engine in
enclosed areas. The engine consumes
oxygen and engine exhaust contains
carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and
other toxic gasses.
122)Remember that the brake servo and
electrical power steering system are not
operational until the engine is started,
therefore a greater effort will be required to
press the brake pedal or turn the steering
wheel.
123)If the engine fails to start with a gear
engaged, the potentially dangerous
situation due to the fact that the gearbox is
automatically placed in neutral will be
signalled by an acoustic signal.
WARNING
36)It is advisable not to demand maximum
performance from your car (e.g. excessive
acceleration, long distances at maximum
rpm, excessively intense braking, etc.)
when it is first used.
37)When the engine is switched off never
leave the key turned to MAR to prevent
useless current absorption from draining
the battery.
38)There must therefore always be
enough petrol in the tank to protect the
petrol pump and to guarantee temporary
switching from LPG to petrol operation.
97

39)Never, under any circumstances, jump
start the engine by pushing, towing or
coasting downhill. This could cause fuel to
flow into the catalytic converter and
damage it beyond repair.
40)A quick burst on the accelerator before
stopping the engine serves no practical
purpose; it wastes fuel and is especially
damaging to turbocharged engines.PARKING THE
VEHICLE
When parking and leaving the car,
proceed as follows:
engage a gear (1stgear if facing
uphill or reverse if facing downhill) and
leave the wheels turned;
stop the engine and engage the
handbrake;
always remove the ignition key.
Block the wheels with a wedge or a
stone if the car is parked on a steep
slope.
Do not leave the ignition key on MAR to
avoid draining the battery. Always
remove the key when you leave the car.
Versions with Dualogic
transmission
To park safely it is essential to engage
1
stgear or reverse (R), with your foot on
the brake pedal and, if there is a
gradient, to operate the handbrake.
Before releasing the brake pedal, wait
until P appears on the display.
IMPORTANT NEVER leave the car with
the gearbox in neutral (or, on versions
equipped with automatic transmission,
before placing the gear lever at P).HANDBRAKE
124) 125) 126)
The handbrake lever fig. 74 is located
between the two front seats.
Handbrake engagement
To use the handbrake pull the lever
upwards until the car cannot be moved.
When the handbrake is on and the
ignition key is at MAR position, the
warning light
will appear on the
instrument panel.
Handbrake disengagement
Proceed as follows to release the
handbrake:
slightly lift the handbrake and press
release button A fig. 74;
press and hold button A and lower
the lever. The
warning light in the
instrument panel will go out.
74F0S0048
98
STARTING AND DRIVING