2021 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO maintenance

STARTING AND OPERATING

142

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.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 142

143

Traffic And Road Conditions
High fuel consumption is caused by heavy
traffic, for instance when traveling in traffic
with frequent use of low gears or in cities with
many traffic lights. Winding mountain roads
and rough road surfaces also adversely affect
consumption.
Stops In Traffic
During prolonged stops (e.g. railway cross-
ings), turn off the engine.
Performance — Quadrifoglio
This vehicle is equipped with an engine
capable of delivering exceptionally fast accel -
eration and speed:
Peak power: 505 HP at 6,500 RPM.

Peak torque: 443 ft-lbs at 2,500–5,000 RPM.

Top speed: 176 mph (283 km/h).

Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 100 km/h):
3.6 seconds.

For safe driving, it is essential, particularly
during the first days of use, to get to know the
car by driving carefully and gradually discov -
ering its performance.
Brakes
The car braking system may be available with
four carbon-ceramic material brake discs, one
on each wheel. In order to guarantee the maximum braking
capacity for the first use, Alfa Romeo performs
a "run-in" procedure for discs and pads directly
at the factory.
The use of carbon-ceramic material brake
discs guarantees braking features (better
deceleration/pedal load ratio, braking
distances, fading resistance) proportional to
the dynamic features of the car in addition to
considerably decreasing the unsprung compo
-
nent weight.
The materials used and the structural features
of the system could generate unusual noises
which have absolutely no adverse effect on
correct operation and reliability of the braking
system.
Greater pressure may need to be applied to
the brake pedal the first time to keep the same
braking capacities in presence of condensa -
tion or salt on the braking surfaces, for
example after washing or if the car is not used
for a long time.

NOTE:

Given the high technological level of this
system, any servicing on it must be performed
by an authorized dealer which exclusively has
the skills needed for the repair and mainte -
nance operations. In case of intensive, high-performance use of
the car, have the efficiency of the
carbon-ceramic material braking system
inspected as shown on the Maintenance Plan
at an authorized dealer.
Driving On Race Tracks
Before driving on a track using a racing style, it
is necessary to:
Attend a race track driving course.
Check the liquid levels in the engine
compartment
Ú

page 208.
Have the car inspected at an authorized
dealer.
Remember that the car was not designed to be
driven exclusively on the race track and that
this use increases stress and component
wear.

NOTE:

Quadrifoglio front brakes are equipped with
Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO) type pads. These
pads are NOT suitable for high thermal loads
(for example track use). If you want to use
vehicle on a track it is recommended to use
the optional CCM Brakes (Carbon Ceramic
Brake disc).
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 143

SAFETY

146

Given that, in a turn, the external wheels of the
car travel more than the internal ones and
therefore turn faster, sending a higher thrust
to the external rear wheel allows for the car to
be more stable and to not suffer an "under-
steer" condition. Understeer occurs when the
vehicle is turning less than appropriate for the
steering wheel position.
Dynamic Steering Torque (DST) System
DST uses the integration of the Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) system with the electric
power steering to increase the safety level of
the whole vehicle.
In critical situations (e.g. braking on surfaces
with different grip conditions), the ESC system
influences the steering through the DST func -
tion to implement an additional torque contri -
bution on the steering wheel in order to
suggest the most correct maneuver to the
driver.
The coordinated action of the brakes and
steering increases the safety and control of
the vehicle.

NOTE:

The DST feature is only meant to help the
driver realize the correct course of action
through small torques on the steering wheel,
which means the effectiveness of the DST
feature is highly dependent on the driver’s
sensitivity and overall reaction to the applied
torque. It is very important to realize that this feature will not steer the vehicle, meaning the
driver is still responsible for steering the
vehicle.
Drive Train Control (DTC) System
Some models of this vehicle are equipped with
an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, which offers
an optimal drive for countless driving condi
-
tions and road surfaces. The system reduces
tire slipping to a minimum, automatically
redistributing the torque to the front and rear
wheels as needed.
To maximize fuel savings, the vehicle with
AWD automatically passes to Rear-Wheel
Drive (RWD) when the road and environmental
conditions are such that they wouldn't cause
the tires to slip. When the road and environ -
mental conditions require better traction, the
vehicle automatically switches to AWD mode.

NOTE:

There may be a brief delay in shifting to
AWD mode after a tire slipping event occurs.
If the system failure symbol switches on,
after starting the engine or while driving, it
means that the AWD system is not working
properly. If the warning message activates
frequently, it is recommended to carry out
the maintenance operations.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System
The ESC system improves the directional
control and stability of the vehicle in various
driving conditions.
The ESC system corrects the vehicle’s under -
steer and oversteer, distributing the brake
force on the appropriate wheels. The torque
supplied by the engine can also be reduced in
order to maintain control of the vehicle.
The ESC system uses sensors installed on the
vehicle to determine the path that the driver
intends to follow and compares it with the
vehicle’s effective path. When the real path
deviates from the desired path, the ESC
system intervenes to counter the vehicle’s
oversteer or understeer.
Oversteer occurs when the vehicle is
turning more than it should according to the
angle of the steering wheel.
Understeer occurs when the vehicle is
turning less than it should according to the
angle of the steering wheel.
System Intervention
The intervention of the system is indicated by
the flashing of the ESC warning light on the
instrument panel, to inform the driver that the
vehicle stability and grip are critical.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 146

147

Hill Descent Control (HDC) System — If
Equipped
The HDC function is an integral part of the
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system,
keeping the vehicle at a constant speed while
descending a hill by actively controlling the
brakes.
HDC aims to create vehicle stability and safer
driving in various situations, including poor
grip conditions and steep descents.
The system has three different modes:
Off: the system is deactivated
Enabled: the system is enabled and ready to
intervene when the activation conditions
are met
Active: the system actively controls the
vehicle speed
Enabling The System
To enable the system, push the HDC switch
located on the steering wheel.
HDC Switch The system is enabled if the car speed is below
20 mph (30 km/h). The system stays enabled
until the car speed reaches 37 mph (60 km/h),
the system is disabled at speeds above 37 mph
(60 km/h).
Activation of the HDC system is indicated by
the white icon appearing in the instrument
cluster display.
HDC Symbol
Activation Of The System
Once enabled, the HDC system will activate
automatically if the vehicle is driven on a
downhill slope with sufficient gradient, greater
than 8%.
The speed set for the HDC system can be
adjusted using the SET switch located on the
steering wheel.
WARNING!
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot
prevent the natural laws of physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase
the traction afforded by prevailing road
conditions. ESC cannot prevent accidents,
including those resulting from excessive
speed in turns, driving on very slippery
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also
cannot prevent accidents resulting from
loss of vehicle control due to inappro -
priate driver input for the conditions. Only
a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can
prevent accidents. The capabilities of an
ESC equipped vehicle must never be
exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner which could jeopardize the user’s
safety or the safety of others.
Vehicle modifications, or failure to prop -
erly maintain your vehicle, may change
the handling characteristics of your
vehicle, and may negatively affect the
performance of the ESC system. Changes
to the steering system, suspension,
braking system, tire type and size or wheel
size may adversely affect ESC perfor-
mance. Improperly inflated and unevenly
worn tires may also degrade ESC perfor -
mance. Any vehicle modification or poor
vehicle maintenance that reduces the
effectiveness of the ESC system can
increase the risk of loss of vehicle control,
vehicle rollover, personal injury and death.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 147

163

To reactivate the TPMS, replace all four wheel
and tire assemblies (road tires) with tires
equipped with TPMS sensors. Then, drive the
vehicle for up to 20 minutes above 15 mph
(24 km/h). The TPMS will chime, the TPMS
Warning Light will flash on and off for 75
seconds and then turn off. The instrument
cluster will display the “SERVICE TPM
SYSTEM” message and then display pressure
values in place of the dashes. On the next igni-
tion switch cycle the “SERVICE TPM SYSTEM”
message will no longer be displayed, as long
as no system fault exists.

NOTE:

The TPMS is not intended to replace normal
tire care and maintenance, or to provide
warning of a tire failure or condition.
The TPMS should not be used as a tire pres -
sure gauge while adjusting your tire pres -
sure.
Driving on a significantly underinflated tire
will cause the tire to overheat, and can lead
to tire failure. Underinflation also reduces
fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may
affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping
ability.
The TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire
maintenance, and it is the driver’s responsi -
bility to maintain correct tire pressure using
an accurate tire pressure gauge, even if underinflation has not reached the level to
trigger illumination of the TPMS Warning
Light.
Seasonal temperature changes will affect
tire pressure, and the TPMS will monitor the
actual tire pressure in the tire
Ú

page 268.
OCCUPANT RESTRAINT
SYSTEMS
Some of the most important safety features in
your vehicle are the restraint systems:
Occupant Restraint Systems Features
Seat Belt Systems
Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) Air
Bags
Child Restraints
Some of the safety features described in this
section may be standard equipment on some
models, or may be optional equipment on
others. If you are not sure, ask an authorized
dealer.
Important Safety Precautions
Please pay close attention to the information
in this section. It tells you how to use your
restraint system properly, to keep you and
your passengers as safe as possible. Here are some simple steps you can take to
minimize the risk of harm from a deploying air
bag:
1. Children 12 years old and under should
always ride buckled up in the rear seat of
a vehicle with a rear seat.
2. A child who is not big enough to wear the vehicle seat belt properly must be secured
in the appropriate child restraint or
belt-positioning booster seat in a rear
seating position
Ú
page 178.
3. If a child from 2 to 12 years old (not in a rear-facing child restraint) must ride in the
front passenger seat, move the seat as far
back as possible and use the proper child
restraint
Ú
page 178.
4. Never allow children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under their arm.
5. You should read the instructions provided with your child restraint to make sure that
you are using it properly.
6. All occupants should always wear their lap and shoulder belts properly.
7. The driver and front passenger seats should be moved back as far as practical
to allow the front air bags room to inflate.
8. Do not lean against the door or window. If your vehicle has side air bags, and deploy -
ment occurs, the side air bags will inflate
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 163

191

The best protection against carbon monoxide
entry into the vehicle body is a properly main-
tained engine exhaust system.
Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of
the exhaust system, when exhaust fumes can
be detected inside the vehicle, or when the
underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged,
have a competent mechanic inspect the
complete exhaust system and adjacent body
areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or
mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose
connections could permit exhaust fumes to
seep into the passenger compartment. In
addition, inspect the exhaust system each
time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil
change. Replace as required.
Carbon Monoxide Warnings
If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle
with the engine running, adjust your
heating or cooling controls to force
outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower
at high speed.
WARNING! (Continued)
WARNING!
Carbon monoxide (CO) in exhaust gases is
deadly. Follow the precautions below to
prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
Do not inhale exhaust gases. They contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odor -
less gas, which can kill. Never run the
engine in a closed area, such as a garage,
and never sit in a parked vehicle with the
engine running for an extended period. If
the vehicle is stopped in an open area with
the engine running for more than a short
period, adjust the ventilation system to
force fresh, outside air into the vehicle.
Guard against carbon monoxide with
proper maintenance. Have the exhaust
system inspected every time the vehicle is
raised. Have any abnormal conditions
repaired promptly. Until repaired, drive
with all side windows fully open.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 191

195

(Continued)
Frequently Asked Questions:
What happens if I accidentally push the SOS -
Emergency Call Button? You have 10 seconds
after pushing the emergency button to cancel
the call. To cancel the call, push the button
again.
What type of information is sent when I make
an SOS - Emergency Call from my vehicle?
Certain vehicle information, such as the VIN, is
transmitted along with last known GPS loca-
tion. Also note that emergency service opera -
tors may record conversations and sounds
within your vehicle once a connection is made,
and by using the service you consent to having
this information shared.
When can I use the SOS - Emergency
Call button? You can ONLY use the
SOS - Emergency Call button to
make a call if you or someone else
needs emergency assistance.
JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING
General Instructions
This vehicle can be equipped with a Tire
Service Kit
Ú
page 198.
As an alternative to the Tire Service Kit, the
vehicle may be purchased with a compact
spare tire
Ú
page 196.
Jack Information And Usage Precautions
Jack Information
The jack weighs 4.4 lb (2 kg).
The jack requires no adjustment.
The jack cannot be repaired, and in the
event of a fault it must be replaced by
another factory replacement.
No tool other than its extension lever may
be fitted on the jack.
Jack Maintenance
Prevent any dirt from depositing on the
"worm screw".
Keep the "worm screw" lubricated.
Never modify the jack.
Conditions Of Non-Use Of The Jack
Temperatures below −40°F (−40°C).
On sandy or muddy ground
On uneven ground
On steep slopes in extreme weather condi -
tions.
In direct contact with the engine or for
repairs under the vehicle
On boats
WARNING!
Do not attempt to change a tire on the
side of the vehicle close to moving traffic.
Pull far enough off the road to avoid the
danger of being hit when operating the
jack or changing the wheel.
Being under a jacked-up vehicle is
dangerous. The vehicle could slip off the
jack and fall on you. You could be crushed.
Never put any part of your body under a
vehicle that is on a jack. If you need to get
under a raised vehicle, take it to a service
center where it can be raised on a lift.
Never start or run the engine while the
vehicle is on a jack.
The jack is designed to be used as a tool
for changing tires only. The jack should
not be used to lift the vehicle for service
purposes. The vehicle should be jacked on
a firm level surface only. Avoid ice or slip -
pery areas.
WARNING! (Continued)
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 195

208

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
Correct servicing permits the performance of
the vehicle to be maintained over time, as well
as limited running costs and safeguarding the
efficiency of the safety systems.
SCHEDULED SERVICING
Correct servicing is crucial for guaranteeing a
long life for the vehicle under the best condi-
tions.
For this reason, Alfa Romeo has planned a
series of checks and services for your vehicle
at fixed intervals based on distance and time,
as described in the Scheduled Servicing Plan.
Before each service, it is always necessary to
carefully follow the instructions in the Sched -
uled Servicing Plan (e.g. periodically check
level of fluids, tire pressure, etc.).
Scheduled Servicing is offered by an autho -
rized dealer according to a set time schedule.
If, during each operation, in addition to the
ones scheduled, the need arises for further
replacements or repairs, these may be carried
out with the owner’s explicit consent only.

NOTE:

Scheduled Servicing intervals are required by
the manufacturer. Failure to have them
carried out may invalidate the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
You are advised to inform an authorized
dealer of any small operating irregularities
without waiting for the next service.
Periodic Checks
Every month or every 620 miles (1,000 km) or
before long trips check and, if necessary, top
off:
Engine coolant level.
Brake fluid level (if insufficient, see an
authorized dealer as soon as possible).
Windshield washer fluid level.
Tire inflation pressure and condition.
Operation of lighting system (headlights,
direction indicators, hazard warning lights,
etc.).
Operation of windshield washing/wiping
system and positioning/wear of wiper
blades.
Inspect the CV/Universal joints.
Oil consumption of the engine depends on
conditions and driving style. For this reason,
the engine oil level must be checked every
1,860 miles (3,000 km), and top off if neces -
sary; for further information
Ú
page 215.
Heavy Usage Of The Vehicle
If the vehicle is used under one of the following
conditions:
Dusty roads.
Short, repeated journeys less than 4 miles
(7 km) at sub-zero outside temperatures.
Engine often idling or driving long distances
at low speeds or long periods of inactivity.
In the event of a long period of inactivity.
The following checks must be carried out more
often than indicated in the Scheduled
Servicing Plan:
Check cleanliness of hood and liftgate
locks, cleanliness and lubrication of
linkage.
Visually inspect conditions of: engine, trans -
mission, pipes and hoses (exhaust/fuel
system/brakes) and rubber elements
(sleeves/bushes, etc.).
Check battery charge and battery fluid level
(electrolyte).
Visually inspect conditions of the accessory
drive belts.
Check and, if necessary, change engine oil
and replace oil filter.
Check and, if necessary, replace cabin air
filter.
Check and, if necessary, replace air cleaner.
Severe Duty All Models
Change engine oil at 4,000 miles (6,500 km)
if the vehicle is operated in a dusty and
off-road environment or is operated predomi -
nately at idle or only very low engine RPM. This
type of vehicle use is considered Severe Duty.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 208