2021 ALFA ROMEO GIULIA Owners Manual

215

(Continued)

NOTE:

After the battery is disconnected, the steering
must be initialized. The warning light on the
instrument panel switches on to indicate this.
To carry out this procedure, simply turn the
steering wheel all the way from one end to the
other, and then turn it back to the central posi-
tion.
Battery
The battery does not require the electrolyte to
be topped up with distilled water. A periodic
check carried out at an authorized dealer,
however, is necessary to check efficiency.
Follow the battery manufacturer's instructions
for maintenance.
Replacing The Battery
If necessary, replace the battery with another
original battery with the same specifications.
Follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions
for maintenance.
NOTE:

It will not be possible to open the trunk with a
key or by pushing the button in the passenger
compartment when the battery is discon
-
nected. So, always position the manual trunk
opening strap on the trunk lock before discon -
necting the battery
Ú
page 250.
Pressure Washing
Cleaning the engine compartment with a high
pressure washer is not recommended.
BATTERY RECHARGING
Important Notes

NOTE:

Before using the charging device, always
make sure that it is appropriate for the
installed battery, with constant voltage
(below 14.8 Volts) and low amperage
(maximum 15 Amps).
Recharge the battery in a well ventilated
environment.
Before using any devices to charge or to
maintain the charge of the battery, carefully
follow the instructions provided with the
device in order to properly and safely
connect it to the car battery.
WARNING!
Battery acid is a corrosive solution and
can burn or even blind you. Do not allow
battery acid to contact your eyes, skin, or
clothing. Do not lean over a battery when
attaching clamps
Ú
page 199. If acid
splashes in eyes or on skin, flush the area
immediately with large amounts of water.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive.
Keep flame or sparks away from the
battery. Do not use a booster battery or
any other booster source with an output
greater than 12 Volts. Do not allow cable
clamps to touch each other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after handling.
CAUTION!
Precautions have been taken to safeguard
all parts and connections however, the
pressures generated by these machines is
such that complete protection against
water ingress cannot be guaranteed.
WARNING! (Continued)
WARNING!
Never charge or recharge a frozen battery:
it may explode because of the nitrogen
trapped inside the ice crystals.
At all times while charging or recharging
the battery, make sure that any sparks or
open flames are kept sufficiently far away
from the battery.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

216

You can recharge the battery without discon-
necting the wires of the vehicle's electrical
system.
To reach the battery, remove the access
panel inside the trunk.
Battery Access Panel
Remove the protective cover and connect
the positive cable terminal of the charger
(usually red) to the positive terminal (+) of
the battery.
Connect the negative terminal of the
charger (usually black) to nut next to the
negative terminal (-) of the battery. Battery
The vehicle is equipped with an IBS (Intelligent
Battery Sensor), which is able to measure the
charge and discharge voltage and calculate
the charge level and the general condition of
the battery. The sensor is placed next to the
negative terminal (-) of the battery. For a correct charge/discharge procedure, the
charge voltage must go through the IBS
sensor.
1. Turn the charger on and follow the instruc
-
tions on the user's manual to completely
recharge the battery.
2. When the battery is charged, turn the charger off before disconnecting it from
the battery.
3. Disconnect the black cable terminal of the battery charger and then the red cable
terminal.
4. Refit the protective cover of the positive terminal of the battery and the access
cover to the battery compartment.

NOTE:

If a “quick-type” battery charger is used with
the battery fitted on the vehicle, before
connecting it disconnect both cables of the
battery itself. Do not use a “quick-type” battery
charger to provide the starting voltage.
1 — Protective Cover
2 — Negative Post (Nut)
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217

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
The following pages contain instructions on
the required maintenance from the technical
personnel who designed the vehicle.
In addition to these specific maintenance
instructions specified for routine scheduled
servicing, there are other components which
may require periodic maintenance or replace-
ment over the vehicle’s life cycle.
Engine Oil
Engine Oil Level Check
To ensure correct engine lubrication, the oil
must always be kept at the appropriate level.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, for
example every 1,864 miles (3,000 km).
It must be checked once full operating
temperature is reached.
The vehicle must also be parked on as level a
surface as possible.
The engine oil level can be checked using the
Information and Entertainment system. To
access the function, activate the main menu
(MENU button) and select the following
options in sequence: “Applications”; “My Car”;
“Oil level”. Changing The Engine Oil
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú

page 204.
Choice Of Engine Oil Type
To ensure optimal performance and maximum
protection in all operating conditions, it is
advisable to only use certified engine oils

Ú
page 267.
Additives For Engine Oil
It is strongly recommended not to use addi -
tives (other than leak detection dyes) with the
engine oil.
The engine oil is a product designed specially
for the vehicle and its performance may be
deteriorated through the use of further addi -
tives.
Disposal Of Used Engine Oil And Filters
For disposal of used engine oil and filters,
consult the appropriate local regulations.

NOTE:

Inappropriate disposal of used engine oil may
seriously harm the environment.
Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be replaced with a
new filter at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
A full-flow type disposable oil filter should be
used for replacement. The quality of replace -
ment filters varies considerably. Only high
quality Mopar certified filters should be used.
Engine Air Cleaner
Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement filters varies
considerably. Only high quality Mopar certified
filters should be used.
Air Conditioning System Maintenance
To ensure the best possible performance, the
air conditioning system must be checked and
undergo maintenance at an authorized dealer
at the beginning of the summer.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemicals to clean the air
conditioning system, since the internal
components may be damaged. This kind of
damage is not covered by warranty.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

218

Replace The Cabin Air Cleaner
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 204. For cabin air cleaner replace -
ment, contact an authorized dealer.
Lubricating Moving Parts Of The Bodywork

Ensure that the locks and bodywork junction
points, including components such as the seat
guides, door hinges (and rollers), trunk and hood
are periodically lubricated with lithium-based
grease to ensure correct, silent operation and to
protect them from rust and wear.

Thoroughly clean the components, eliminating
every trace of dirt and dust. After lubricating,
eliminate excess oil and grease. Also pay
particular attention to the hood closing
devices, to ensure correct operation. During
operations on the hood, to be carried out with
the engine cold, also remember to check,
clean and lubricate the locking, release and
safety devices. Lubricate the external lock barrels twice a
year. Apply a small amount of high-quality
lubricant directly into the lock barrel.
If necessary, contact an authorized dealer as
soon as possible.
Windshield Wiper
Periodically clean the windshield and rear
window and rubber profile of the windshield
wiper blades, using a sponge or a soft cloth
and a non-abrasive detergent. This eliminates
the salt or impurities accumulated when
driving.
Prolonged operation of the windshield window
wipers with dry glass may cause the deteriora
-
tion of the blades, in addition to abrasion of
the surface of the glass. To eliminate the impu -
rities on the dry glass, always operate the
windshield washers.
In the event of very low outdoor temperatures,
below 0°F (-17.8°C) , ensure that the move -
ment of the rubber part in contact with the
glass is not obstructed. Use a suitable deicing
product to release it if required.
Avoid using the windshield wipers to remove
frost or ice.
Also avoid contact of the rubber profile of the
blades with petroleum derivatives such as
engine oil, gas, etc.
NOTE:

The life of the windshield wiper blades varies
according to the usage frequency. In any case,
it is advised to replace the blades approxi
-
mately once a year. When the blades are worn,
noise, marks on the glass or streaks of water
may be noticed. In the presence of these
conditions, clean the windshield wiper blades
or, if necessary, replace them.
Raising The Windshield Wiper Blades
(“Service Position” Function)
The “service position” function allows the
driver to replace the windshield wiper blades
more easily. It is also recommended to acti -
vate this function when it is snowing and to
make it easier to remove any dirt deposits in
the area where the blades are normally posi -
tioned, when washing.
Activation Of The Function
To activate this function, disable the wind -
shield wiper before setting the ignition device
to OFF.
This function can only be activated within two
minutes of placing the ignition in OFF.
WARNING!

Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants
approved by FCA US LLC for your air conditioning
system. Some unapproved refrigerants are
flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other
unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause
the system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer
to Warranty Information Book, located in your
owner’s information kit, for further warranty
information.

WARNING!
Driving with worn windshield wiper blades
is a serious hazard, because visibility is
reduced in bad weather conditions.
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219

To activate this function, move the lever
upward for at least three seconds.Windshield Wiper Stalk
Function Deactivation
The function is deactivated if:
More than two minutes passes before
placing the ignition in the STOP position
after having raised the lever and putting the
wipers into service position.
The ignition is placed in the ACC position
and the windshield wiper control is used.
If, after using the function, the ignition is set
back to ACC with the blades in a position other
than rest position (at the base of the wind -
shield), they will only return to rest position
following a command given using the stalk
(stalk upwards, into unstable position) or
when a speed of 3 mph (5 km/h) is exceeded. Replacing The Windshield Wiper Blades

Proceed as follows:
1. Raise the wiper arm, press tab of the attachment spring and remove the blade
from the arm.
Wiper Release Tab
2. Fit the new blade, inserting the tab in the dedicated housing in the arm and
checking that it is locked.
3. Lower the wiper arm onto the windshield.

NOTE:

Do not operate the windshield wiper with the
blades lifted from the windshield. Windshield Washer
The window washer nozzles are fixed. If there
is no jet of fluid, first check that there is fluid in
the reservoir.
Windshield Washers
Then, check that the nozzle holes are not
clogged; use a needle to unblock them if
necessary.
1 — Washer Nozzles
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

220

Exhaust System
Adequate maintenance of the engine exhaust
system represents the best protection against
leaks of carbon monoxide into the passenger
compartment.
If an unusual noise from the exhaust or the
presence of smoke in the passenger compart-
ment is identified, or if the underbody or rear
section of the vehicle have been damaged,
have the entire exhaust system and adjoining
bodywork areas checked at an authorized
dealer to identify any components which are
broken, damaged, worn or have moved from
their correct fitting position.
Open welding or loose connections may permit
exhaust gas to enter the passenger compart -
ment.
Have the exhaust system checked every time
the vehicle is raised. Replace the components
where necessary (for these operations,
contact an authorized dealer).
In normal operating conditions, the catalytic
converter does not require maintenance. To
ensure that it operates correctly, however, and
prevent it from getting damaged, it is
extremely important that the engine operates
perfectly. To minimize the risk of damaging the catalytic
converter, proceed as follows:Do not stop the engine or deactivate the
ignition with gear engaged and vehicle in
motion.
Do not attempt to start the engine by bump
starting.
Do not persist in using the vehicle if idling is
very irregular or the operating conditions
are very notably irregular.
Engine Cooling System
Coolant Check
Your vehicle has two cooling systems and they
both need to be checked to ensure they are at
proper fill levels.
Check the engine coolant and intercooler
coolant level every oil change or before long
trips.
If there are impurities in the engine coolant,
the system must be drained, flushed and
refilled: contact an authorized dealer.
WARNING!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you
park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system. Do
not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.
WARNING!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam
coming from under the hood, do not open
the hood until the radiator has had time to
cool. Never open a cooling system pres
-
sure cap when the radiator or coolant
bottle is hot.
Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry
away from the radiator cooling fan when
the hood is raised. The fan starts automat -
ically and may start at any time, whether
the engine is running or not.
When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn
the ignition to the OFF mode. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at
any time the ignition is in the ON mode.
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221

Check the front part of the condenser to check
for any build-up of insects, leaves or other
debris. Should it be dirty, clean it by spraying
delicately with water.
Check the hoses of the engine/intercooler
cooling system to ensure that the rubber has
not deteriorated and that there are no cracks,
tears, cuts or obstructions in the expansion
tank side and radiator side connectors. Should
there be any doubt regarding leaks from the
system (e.g. if frequent top ups are required),
have the seal checked at an authorized
dealer.
With the engine off and at normal operating
temperature, check that the cooling system
radiator cap is closed properly.

NOTE:

Before removing the coolant reservoir cap,
wait for the system to cool down.Topping Up / Draining / Flushing The Engine/
Intercooler Coolant
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty, have
cleaning and flushing carried out at an autho
-
rized dealer.
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 204.

NOTE:

For topping up, use a fluid with the same
characteristics as those indicated on

Ú
page 267.
Do not use pure water, alcohol-based cool -
ants, corrosions inhibitors or additional
anti-rust products because they may be
incompatible with the engine coolant and
cause the clogging of the radiator. The use
of propylene glycol-based coolant is also not
recommended.
Engine Cooling/Intercooler System Cap
To prevent loss of engine coolant, make sure
that the expansion tank cap is closed. If it is
open, screw it completely until you reach/hear
the click.
Periodically check the cap and clean it from
any foreign bodies that may have deposited on
the external surface. Disposal Of Used Coolant
Disposal of engine/intercooler coolant is
subject to legal requirements: consult the
appropriate local regulations.

NOTE:

To prevent the fluid from being ingested by
children or animals, do not keep it in open
containers or pour it on the ground. If
ingested, contact a doctor immediately.
Eliminate any traces of fluid from the
ground immediately.

When the vehicle stops after a short trip,
steam may be seen coming out from front of
the hood. This is a normal phenomenon which
is due to the presence of rain, snow or a lot of
moisture on the surface of the radiator.

With engine and system cold, do not top up
with coolant beyond the maximum level
indicated on the reservoir in the engine
compartment.
WARNING!

Do not open hot engine cooling system.
Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when
the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or
remove the cap to cool an overheated
engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in
the cooling system. To prevent scalding or
injury, do not remove the pressure cap while
the system is hot or under pressure.

Do not use a pressure cap other than the
one specified for your vehicle. Personal
injury or engine damage may result.
WARNING!
Never add coolant with the engine hot or
overheated.
Do not attempt to cool an overheated
engine by loosening or removing the cap.
The heat causes a considerable increase
in pressure in the cooling system.
To prevent damage to the engine, only use
the engine cooling circuit caps provided.
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222

Braking System
In order to guarantee the efficiency of the
braking system, periodically check its compo-
nents; for this operation, contact an autho -
rized dealer.
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 204.

NOTE:

Driving with your foot resting on the brake
pedal may compromise its efficiency,
increasing the risk of accidents. When driving,
never keep your foot on the brake pedal and
don’t put unnecessary strain on it to prevent
the brakes from overheating: excess pad wear
may cause damage to the braking system.
When an insufficient oil level is detected,
contact an authorized dealer to have the
system checked.
Always keep the cap of the brake fluid reser-
voir (in the engine compartment)
completely closed.
Automatic Transmission
Use only a transmission oil with the same char -
acteristics as those indicated on
Ú
page 268.
Special Additives
Do not use any type of additive with the auto -
matic transmission oil. The automatic trans -
mission oil is a product designed specially for
this vehicle and its performance may be
compromised through the use of further addi -
tives.
Frequency Of Oil Changes
In normal vehicle operating conditions, it is not
necessary to change the transmission oil.
WARNING!
Use only FCA US LLC recommended brake
fluid
Ú
page 268. Using the wrong type of
brake fluid can severely damage your
brake system and/or impair its perfor -
mance. The proper type of brake fluid for
your vehicle is also identified on the orig -
inal factory installed hydraulic master
cylinder reservoir.
To avoid contamination from foreign
matter or moisture, use only new brake
fluid or fluid that has been in a tightly
closed container. Keep the master
cylinder reservoir cap secured at all times.
Brake fluid in a open container absorbs
moisture from the air resulting in a lower
boiling point. This may cause it to boil
unexpectedly during hard or prolonged
braking, resulting in sudden brake failure.
This could result in a collision.
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to
avoid its contact with these surfaces.
Do not allow petroleum-based fluid to
contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This
could result in a collision.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage
your transmission components. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 222