2021 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO Owners Manual

135

(Continued)
Models Without Compact Spare Tire
1. Open the liftgate and lift up the load floor.Load Floor
2. Lift up the cover to reach the emergency opening cable on the side of the fuel door.
Cargo Box 3. Pull the cable to release the fuel door lock.
Cargo Box Opened
4. Open the fuel door by pushing it.
NOTE:

If the filler compartment is washed with a pres
-
sure washer, keep it at a distance of at least
8 inches (20 cm).
VEHICLE LOADING
Certification Label
As required by National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration regulations, your vehicle has a
certification label affixed to the driver's side
door or pillar.
This label contains the month and year of
manufacture, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR), Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
front and rear, and Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN). A Month-Day-Hour (MDH)
number is included on this label and indicates
the Month, Day and Hour of manufacture. The
bar code that appears on the bottom of the
label is your VIN.
1 — Cover
2 — Release Cable
WARNING!
Never have any smoking materials lit in or
near the vehicle when the fuel door is
open or the tank is being filled.
Never add fuel when the engine is
running. This is in violation of most state
and federal fire regulations and may
cause the Malfunction Indicator Lamp
(MIL) to turn on.
A fire may result if gasoline is pumped into
a portable container that is inside of a
vehicle. You could be burned. Always
place gas containers on the ground while
filling.
WARNING!
(Continued)
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136

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total permissible weight of
your vehicle including driver, passengers,
vehicle, options and cargo. The label also
specifies maximum capacities of front and
rear axle systems (GAWR). Total load must be
limited so GVWR and front and rear GAWR are
not exceeded.
Payload
The payload of a vehicle is defined as the
allowable load weight a truck can carry,
including the weight of the driver, all passen-
gers, options and cargo.
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum permissible load
on the front and rear axles. The load must be
distributed in the cargo area so that the GAWR
of each axle is not exceeded.
Each axle GAWR is determined by the compo -
nents in the system with the lowest load
carrying capacity (axle, springs, tires or
wheels). Heavier axles or suspension compo -
nents sometimes specified by purchasers for
increased durability do not necessarily
increase the vehicle's GVWR.
Tire Size
The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label
represents the actual tire size on your vehicle.
Replacement tires must be equal to the load
capacity of this tire size.
Rim Size
This is the rim size that is appropriate for the
tire size listed.
Inflation Pressure
This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your
vehicle for all loading conditions up to full
GAWR.
Curb Weight
The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the
total weight of the vehicle with all fluids,
including vehicle fuel, at full capacity condi -
tions, and with no occupants or cargo loaded
into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight
values are determined by weighing your
vehicle on a commercial scale before any
occupants or cargo are added.
Loading
The actual total weight and the weight of the
front and rear of your vehicle at the ground can
best be determined by weighing it when it is
loaded and ready for operation.
The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a
commercial scale to ensure that the GVWR
has not been exceeded. The weight on the
front and rear of the vehicle should then be
determined separately to be sure that the load
is properly distributed over the front and rear
axle. Weighing the vehicle may show that the
GAWR of either the front or rear axles has
been exceeded but the total load is within the specified GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted
from front to rear or rear to front as appro
-
priate until the specified weight limitations are
met. Store the heavier items down low and be
sure that the weight is distributed equally.
Stow all loose items securely before driving.
Improper weight distributions can have an
adverse effect on the way your vehicle steers
and handles and the way the brakes operate.
TRAILER TOWING
In this section you will find safety tips and
information on limits to the type of towing you
can reasonably do with your vehicle. Before
towing a trailer, carefully review this informa -
tion to tow your load as efficiently and safely
as possible.
To maintain the New Vehicle Limited Warranty
coverage, follow the requirements and recom -
mendations in this manual concerning vehi -
cles used for trailer towing.
CAUTION!
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than
the GVWR or the maximum front and rear
GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can
break, or it can change the way your vehicle
handles. This could cause you to lose
control. Also overloading can shorten the
life of your vehicle.
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137

Common Towing Definitions
The following trailer towing related definitions
will assist you in understanding the following
information:
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
The GVWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle. This includes driver, passengers,
cargo and tongue weight. The total load must
be limited so that you do not exceed the GVWR

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page 135.
Gross Trailer Weight (GTW)
The GTW is the weight of the trailer plus the
weight of all cargo, consumables, and equip -
ment (permanent or temporary) loaded in or
on the trailer in its "loaded and ready for oper -
ation" condition.
The recommended way to measure GTW is to
put your fully loaded trailer on a vehicle scale.
The entire weight of the trailer must be
supported by the scale.
Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR)

The GCWR is the total allowable weight of your
vehicle and trailer when weighed in combination.

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
The GAWR is the maximum capacity of the
front and rear axles. Distribute the load over
the front and rear axles evenly. Make sure that
you do not exceed either front or rear GAWR

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page 135.
Tongue Weight (TW)
The tongue weight is the downward force
exerted on the hitch ball by the trailer. You
must consider this as part of the load on your
vehicle.
Trailer Frontal Area
The frontal area is the maximum height multi -
plied by the maximum width of the front of a
trailer.
Weight-Carrying Hitch
A weight-carrying hitch supports the trailer
tongue weight, just as if it were luggage
located at a hitch ball or some other
connecting point of the vehicle. These kinds of
hitches are the most popular on the market
today and they are commonly used to tow
small and medium sized trailers.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing system works by applying
leverage through spring (load) bars. They are
typically used for heavier loads to distribute
trailer tongue weight to the tow vehicle's front axle and the trailer axle(s). When used in
accordance with the manufacturer's direc
-
tions, it provides for a more level ride, offering
more consistent steering and brake control
thereby enhancing towing safety. The addition
of a friction/hydraulic sway control also
dampens sway caused by traffic and cross -
winds and contributes positively to tow vehicle
and trailer stability. Trailer Sway Control and a
weight distributing (load equalizing) hitch are
recommended for heavier Tongue Weights
(TW) and may be required depending on
vehicle and trailer configuration/loading to
comply with Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)
requirements.
Trailer Hitch Classification
The following chart provides the industry stan -
dard for the maximum trailer weight a given
trailer hitch class can tow and should be used
to assist you in selecting the correct trailer
hitch for your intended towing condition.
WARNING!
It is important that you do not exceed the
maximum front or rear GAWR. A dangerous
driving condition can result if either rating is
exceeded. You could lose control of the
vehicle and have a collision.
WARNING!
An improperly adjusted Weight Distrib -
uting Hitch system may reduce handling,
stability, braking performance, and could
result in a collision.
Weight Distributing Systems may not be
compatible with Surge Brake Couplers.
Consult with the hitch and trailer manu -
facturer or a reputable Recreational
Vehicle dealer for additional information.
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Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)
Trailer And Tongue Weight
Never exceed the maximum tongue weight
stamped on your fascia/bumper or trailer
hitch.Weight Distribution
Trailer Hitch Classification Definitions
ClassMax. Trailer Hitch Industry Standards
Class I - Light Duty 2,000 lbs (907 kg)
Class II - Medium Duty 3,500 lbs (1,587 kg)
Class III - Heavy Duty 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg)
Class IV - Extra Heavy Duty 10,000 lbs (4,535 kg)
Refer to the “Trailer Towing Weights (Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings)” chart for the Maximum Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) towable for your given
drivetrain.
All trailer hitches should be professionally installed on your vehicle.
Engine/TransmissionMaximum GTW (Gross Trailer Wt.)Maximum Tongue Wt. (See Note)
2.0L Engine 3,000 lbs (1360 kg) 300 lbs (136 kg)
Refer to local laws for maximum trailer towing speeds.

NOTE:

The trailer tongue weight must be considered as part of the combined weight of occupants and cargo, and should never exceed the weight refer -
enced on the Tire and Loading Information placard.
CAUTION!
Always load a trailer with 60% of the weight
in the front of the trailer. This places 10% of
the GTW on the tow hitch of your vehicle.
Loads balanced over the wheels or heavier
in the rear can cause the trailer to sway
severely side to side which will cause loss
of control of the vehicle and trailer. Failure
to load trailers heavier in front is the cause
of many trailer collisions.
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139
(Continued)
Consider the following items when computing
the weight on the rear axle of the vehicle:
The tongue weight of the trailer.
The weight of any other type of cargo or
equipment put in or on your vehicle.
The weight of the driver and all passengers.

NOTE:

Remember that everything put into or on the
trailer adds to the load on your vehicle. Also,
additional factory-installed options or
dealer-installed options must be considered
as part of the total load on your vehicle. Refer
to the “Tire And Loading Information” placard
for the maximum combined weight of occu -
pants and cargo for your vehicle.
Towing Requirements
To promote proper break-in of your new
vehicle drivetrain components, the following
guidelines are recommended:
Towing Requirements — Tires
Do not attempt to tow a trailer while using a
compact spare tire.
Do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h)
when towing while using a full size spare
tire.
Proper tire inflation pressures are essential
to the safe and satisfactory operation of
your vehicle.
Check the trailer tires for proper tire infla -
tion pressures before trailer usage.
Check for signs of tire wear or visible tire
damage before towing a trailer.
Replacing tires with a higher load carrying
capacity will not increase the vehicle's
GVWR and GAWR limits.
For proper tire inflation procedures

Ú
page 233.
WARNING!
Improper towing can lead to a collision.
Follow these guidelines to make your trailer
towing as safe as possible:
Make certain that the load is secured in
the trailer and that it will not shift during
travel. When trailering cargo that is not
fully secured, dynamic load shifts can
occur that may be difficult for the driver to
control. You could lose control of your
vehicle and have a collision.
When hauling cargo, or towing a trailer, do
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Over -
loading can cause a loss of control, poor
performance, or damage to brakes, axle,
engine, transmission, steering, suspen -
sion, chassis structure, or tires.
Safety chains must always be used
between your vehicle and trailer. Always
connect the chains to the frame or hook
retainers of the vehicle hitch. Cross the
chains under the trailer tongue and allow
enough slack for turning corners.
Vehicles with trailers should not be parked
on a grade. When parking, apply the
parking brake on the tow vehicle. Put the
tow vehicle transmission in PARK. Always
block or "chock" the trailer wheels.
GCWR must not be exceeded.
Total weight must be distributed between
the tow vehicle and the trailer such that
the following four ratings are not
exceeded:
• GVWR
• GTW
• GAWR
• Tongue weight rating for the trailer
hitch utilized.
WARNING! (Continued) CAUTION!
Do not tow a trailer at all during the first
500 miles (805 km) the new vehicle is
driven. The engine, axle or other parts
could be damaged.
Then, during the first 500 miles (805 km)
that a trailer is towed, do not drive over
50 mph (80 km/h) and do not make
starts at full throttle. This helps the engine
and other parts of the vehicle wear in at
the heavier loads.
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Towing Requirements — Trailer Brakes
Do not interconnect the hydraulic brake
system or vacuum system of your vehicle
with that of the trailer. This could cause
inadequate braking and possible personal
injury.
An electronically actuated trailer brake
controller is required when towing a trailer
with electronically actuated brakes. When
towing a trailer equipped with a hydraulic
surge actuated brake system, an electronic
brake controller is not required.
Trailer brakes are recommended for trailers
over 1,000 lbs (453 kg) and required for
trailers in excess of 2,000 lbs (907 kg).
Towing Requirements — Trailer Lights And
Wiring
Whenever you pull a trailer, regardless of the
trailer size, stoplights and turn signals on the
trailer are required for motoring safety.
The Trailer Tow Package may include a four-
and seven-pin wiring harness. Use a factory
approved trailer harness and connector.

NOTE:

Do not cut or splice wiring into the vehicle’s
wiring harness.
The electrical connections are all complete to
the vehicle but you must mate the harness to
a trailer connector. Refer to the following illus -
trations.

NOTE:

Disconnect trailer wiring connector from the
vehicle before launching a boat (or any
other device plugged into vehicle’s elec -
trical connect) into water.
Be sure to reconnect once clear from water
area. Four-Pin Connector
Seven-Pin Connector
WARNING!
Do not connect trailer brakes to your
vehicle's hydraulic brake lines. It can over -
load your brake system and cause it to
fail. You might not have brakes when you
need them and could have an accident.
Towing any trailer will increase your stop -
ping distance. When towing, you should
allow for additional space between your
vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
Failure to do so could result in an acci -
dent.
CAUTION!
If the trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs
(453 kg) loaded, it should have its own
brakes and they should be of adequate
capacity. Failure to do this could lead to
accelerated brake lining wear, higher brake
pedal effort, and longer stopping distances.
1 — Ground
2 — Park
3 — Left Stop/Turn
4 — Right Stop/Turn
1 — Battery
2 — Backup Lamps
3 — Right Stop/Turn
4 — Electric Brakes
5 — Ground
6 — Left Stop/Turn
7 — Running Lamps
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141

Towing Tips
Before setting out on a trip, practice turning,
stopping, and backing up the trailer in an area
located away from heavy traffic.
Automatic Transmission
Select the DRIVE range when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy
to avoid frequent shifting when towing.
However, if frequent shifting does occur while
in DRIVE, you can use the AutoStick shift
control to manually select a lower gear.

NOTE:

Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat build-up.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
Cruise Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy
loads.
When using the Cruise Control, if you expe-
rience speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.
Use Cruise Control in flat terrain and with
light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Installing The Receiver
To properly install the receiver, follow the
directions below:
1. Retrieve the receiver from the luggage compartment.
2. Push the receiver into the trailer hitch, and secure by inserting the locking pin into the
trailer hitch.
3. Insert the safety split ring into the hole on the locking pin.

NOTE:

Ensure that the locking pin is removed from
the trailer hitch before installing the receiver.
Trailer Hitch And Receiver
Connecting The Electrical System
To connect the trailer’s electrical system,
follow the directions below:
1. Remove the socket protective cover.
2. Completely insert the plug into the socket.
Electrical Tow Connector
1 – Receiver
2 – Locking Pin
3 – Safety Split Ring
A – Trailer Hitch
Pin
NumberFunction
1 Lights ground (Lights GND)
2 Position light, side marker
lights, and license plate light
3 Left turn signal and stop light
4 Right turn signal and stop
light
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Removing The Receiver
When the receiver is no longer needed, discon-
nect the electrical connections and remove it
from its position using the directions below:
1. Remove the safety split ring from the locking pin.
2. Pull the locking pin out of the trailer hitch.
3. Remove the receiver from the trailer hitch.
SUGGESTIONS FOR DRIVING
Saving Fuel
Below are some suggestions which may help
you save fuel and lower the amount of harmful
emissions released into the atmosphere.
Vehicle Maintenance
Checks and operations should be carried out
in accordance with the Maintenance Plan

Ú
page 208.
Tires
Check the tire pressures at least once every
four weeks: if the pressure is too low,
consumption levels increase as resistance to
rolling is higher.

NOTE:

Tire pressure that is too high can cause
premature tire wear, reduced control, etc. Unnecessary Loads
Do not travel with an overloaded liftgate. The
weight of the vehicle and its arrangement
greatly affect fuel consumption and stability.
Electric Devices
Use electrical systems only for the amount of
time needed. The rear window defroster, addi
-
tional headlights, windshield wipers and
heater blower fan require a considerable
amount of energy; increasing the current
uptake increases fuel consumption (by up to
+25% when city driving).
Climate Control System
Using the climate control system will increase
consumption: use standard ventilation when
the temperature outside permits.
Devices For Aerodynamic Control
The use of non-certified devices for aerody -
namic control may adversely affect air drag
and consumption levels.
Driving Style
Starting
Do not warm up the engine at low or high revs
when the vehicle is stationary; this causes the
engine to warm up more slowly, thereby
increasing fuel consumption and emissions. It
is therefore advisable to drive off immediately,
slowly, avoiding high speeds: by doing this the
engine will warm up more quickly. Unnecessary Actions
Avoid revving up when starting at traffic lights
or before stopping the engine. This action is
unnecessary and causes increased fuel
consumption and pollution.
Gear Selection
Use a high gear when traffic and road condi
-
tions allow it. Using a low gear for faster accel -
eration will increase fuel consumption.
Improper use of a high gear increases
consumption, emissions and engine wear.
Max. Speed
Fuel consumption considerably increases as
speed increases. Maintain a constant speed,
avoiding unnecessary braking and accelera -
tion, which cost in terms of both fuel consump -
tion and emissions.
Acceleration
Accelerating violently severely affects
consumption and emissions: acceleration
should be gradual and should not exceed the
maximum torque.Conditions Of Use
Cold Starting
Short trips and frequent cold starts will not
allow the engine to reach optimum operating
temperature. This results in a significant
increase in consumption levels (from +15 to
+30% in city driving) and emissions.
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