
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   

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
240
Both  underinflation  and  overinflation  affect
the  stability  of  the  vehicle  and  can  produce  a
feeling  of  sluggish  response  or  over  respon-
siveness in the steering.
NOTE:
Unequal  tire  pressures  from  side  to  side
may  cause  erratic  and  unpredictable
steering response.
Unequal tire pressure from side to side may
cause the vehicle to drift left or right.
Fuel Economy
Underinflated  tires  will  increase  tire  rolling
resistance  resulting  in  higher  fuel  consump -
tion.
Tread Wear
Improper  cold  tire  inflation  pressures  can
cause  abnormal  wear  patterns  and  reduced
tread life,  resulting in the need for  earlier  tire
replacement. Ride Comfort And Vehicle Stability
Proper  tire  inflation  contributes  to  a  comfort
-
able ride. Overinflation produces a jarring and
uncomfortable ride.
Tire Inflation Pressures 
The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed
on the driver's side B-pillar or rear edge of the
driver's side door.
At least once a month:
Check and adjust tire pressure with a  good
quality  pocket-type pressure gauge.  Do not
make a visual judgement when determining
proper  inflation.  Tires  may  look  properly
inflated even when they are underinflated.
Inspect tires for signs of tire wear or visible
damage.
Inflation  pressures  specified  on  the  placard
are  always  “cold  tire  inflation  pressure”.  Cold
tire  inflation  pressure  is  defined  as  the  tire
pressure after the vehicle has not been driven
for  at  least  three  hours,  or  driven  less  than
1 mile (1.6 km) after sitting  for a minimum  of
three  hours.  The  cold  tire  inflation  pressure must  not exceed  the  maximum  inflation  pres
-
sure molded into the tire sidewall.
Check tire pressures more often if subject to a
wide  range  of  outdoor  temperatures,  as  tire
pressures vary with temperature changes.
Tire  pressures change by  approximately  1 psi
(7  kPa)  per  12°F  (7°C)  of  air  temperature
change. Keep this in mind when checking tire
pressure  inside  a  garage,  especially  in  the
Winter.
Example:  If  garage  temperature  =  68°F
(20°C)  and  the  outside  temperature  =  32°F
(0°C)  then  the  cold  tire  inflation  pressure
should  be  increased  by  3  psi  (21  kPa),  which
equals  1  psi  (7  kPa)  for  every  12°F  (7°C)  for
this outside temperature condition.
Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi 
(13  to  40  kPa)  during  operation.  DO  NOT
reduce  this  normal  pressure  build  up  or  your
tire pressure will be too low.
Tire Pressures For High Speed Operation 
The  manufacturer  advocates  driving  at  safe
speeds and within posted speed limits. Where
speed  limits  or  conditions  are  such  that  the
vehicle  can  be  driven  at  high  speeds,  main -
taining  correct  tire  inflation  pressure  is  very
important.  Increased  tire  pressure  and
reduced  vehicle  loading  may  be  required  for
high-speed  vehicle  operation.  Refer  to  an
authorized  tire  dealer  or  original  equipment
vehicle  dealer  for  recommended  safe  oper -
ating  speeds,  loading  and  cold  tire  inflation
pressures.
Unequal  tire  pressures  from  one  side  of
the  vehicle  to  the  other  can  cause  the
vehicle to drift to the right or left.
Always  drive with  each  tire inflated to  the
recommended cold tire inflation pressure.
 WARNING!  (Continued)
 CAUTION!
After  inspecting  or  adjusting  the  tire
pressure,  always  reinstall  the  valve  stem
cap. This will prevent moisture and dirt from
entering  the  valve  stem,  which  could
damage the valve stem.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 240   

241
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation Pressures
For vehicle speeds below 100 mph (160 km/h),
recommended  cold  tire  inflation  pressures  are
listed  on  the  Tire  And  Loading  Information
Placard  located  on  driver’s  side  B-pillar  or  the
rear edge of the driver's side door.
When driving at speeds 100 mph (160 km/h)
and  above,  increased  tire  pressures  and
reduced  vehicle  loading  are  required  for
high-speed vehicle operation.For driving speeds above 100 mph (160 km/h)
recommended cold tire  inflation pressures are
listed  below  under  "High  Speed  Tire  Inflation
Pressure".  Vehicle  loading  condition  must  not
exceed  688  lbs.  (312  kg)  (driver  +  three
passengers + 88 lbs. (40kg) luggage).
2.0L Engine
NOTE:
Using tires of a different size, type, brand or design on the front and rear may adversely affect vehicle drive-ability. We recommend using only tires
approved by the manufacturer. The manufacturer cannot determine if unapproved tires are suitable for use and therefore cannot guarantee vehicle
safety in those conditions.
 WARNING!
High  speed  driving  with  your  vehicle  under
maximum  load  is  dangerous.  The  added
strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
You  could  have  a  serious  collision.  Do  not
drive  a  vehicle  loaded  to  the  maximum
capacity  at  continuous  speeds  above
75 mph (120 km/h).
 WARNING!
High  speed  driving  with  your  vehicle  under
maximum  load  is  dangerous.  The  added
strain on your tires could cause them to fail.
You could have a serious collision.
TiresWheel
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation  PressureHigh Speed Tire Inflation Pressure
FrontRearFrontRear
235/60 R18 103V 18x8J30 psi / 210 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 38 psi / 260 kPa
235/55 R19 101V &  105V 19x8J
30 psi / 210 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 38 psi / 260 kPa
255/45 R20 101H 20x8.5J33 psi / 230 kPa 36 psi / 250 kPa 35 psi / 240 kPa 39 psi / 270 kPa
255/40 R21 102W XL 21x8.5J33 psi / 230 kPa 36 psi / 250 kPa 33 psi / 230 kPa 39 psi / 270 kPa
195/75 R18 106P 
(Compact Spare Tire) –
43 psi / 300 kPa
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 241   

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
242
2.9L Engine
Radial Ply Tires Tire Repair
If  your  tire  becomes  damaged,  it  may  be
repaired if it meets the following criteria:
The tire has not been driven on when flat.
The  damage  is  only  on  the  tread  section  of
your tire (sidewall damage is not repairable).
The  puncture  is  no  greater  than  a  ¼  of  an
inch (6 mm).Consult  an  authorized  tire  dealer  for  tire
repairs and additional information.
Damaged Run Flat tires, or Run Flat tires that
have experienced a loss of pressure should be
replaced  immediately  with  another  Run  Flat
tire  of  identical  size  and  service  description
(Load  Index  and  Speed  Symbol).  Replace  the
tire  pressure  sensor  as  well  as  it  is  not
designed to be reused.
TiresWheel
Recommended Cold Tire Inflation 
PressureHigh Speed Tire Inflation Pressure
FrontRearFrontRear
255/45R20 101Y 
(Original Equipment) 20x9J
36 psi / 250 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/40 R21 102Y XL  (Original Equipment) 21x9J
39 psi / 270 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
285/40R20 104Y 
(Original Equipment) 20x10J
-39 psi / 270 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
285/35 R21 105Y XL  (Original Equipment) 21x10J
-42 psi / 290 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
255/45R20 M+S (Snow  Tires) 20x9J
36 psi / 250 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/40 R21 M+S (Snow  Tires) 21x9J
39 psi / 270 kpa -39 psi / 270 kpa -
255/45R20 M+S (Snow  Tires) 20x9J
-39 psi / 270 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
285/35 R21 M+S (Snow  Tires) 21x9J
-42 psi / 290 kpa -42 psi / 290 kpa
 WARNING!
Combining  radial  ply  tires  with  other  types
of  tires  on  your  vehicle  will  cause  your
vehicle  to  handle  poorly.  The  instability
could  cause  a  collision.  Always  use  radial
ply tires in sets of four. Never combine them
with other types of tires.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 242   

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
246
the wheel’s protective coating that helps keep
them from corroding and tarnishing.
When  cleaning  extremely  dirty  wheels
including  excessive  brake  dust,  care  must  be
taken  in  the  selection  of  tire  and  wheel
cleaning chemicals and equipment to prevent
damage to the wheels. Select a non-abrasive,
non-acidic  cleaner  for  aluminum  or  chrome
wheels.
NOTE:
If you intend parking or storing your vehicle for
an extended  period  after  cleaning  the  wheels
with  wheel  cleaner,  drive  your  vehicle  and
apply the brakes to remove the water droplets
from  the  brake  components.  This  activity  will
remove  the  red  rust  on  the  brake  rotors  and
prevent vehicle vibration when braking.
Dark Or Low Gloss Wheels
Tire Types
All Season Tires — If Equipped
All Season tires provide traction for all seasons
(Spring,  Summer,  Autumn,  and  Winter).  Trac
-
tion  levels  may  vary  between  different  all
season tires. All season tires can be identified
by the  M+S,  M&S,  M/S  or  MS designation  on
the  tire  sidewall.  Use  all  season  tires  only  in
sets  of  four;  failure  to  do  so  may  adversely
affect the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Summer Or Three Season Tires — If 
Equipped
Summer tires provide traction in both wet and
dry  conditions,  and  are  not  intended  to  be
driven  in  snow  or  on  ice.  If  your  vehicle  is
equipped  with  Summer  tires,  be  aware  these
tires are not designed for Winter or cold driving
conditions. Install Winter tires on your vehicle
when  ambient  temperatures  are  less  than
40°F (5°C) or if roads are covered with ice or
snow. For more information, contact an autho -
rized dealer.
Summer  tires  do  not  contain  the  all  season
designation or mountain/snowflake symbol on
the tire sidewall. Use Summer tires only in sets
of  four;  failure  to  do  so  may  adversely  affect
the safety and handling of your vehicle.
Snow Tires 
Some  areas  of  the  country  require  the  use  of
snow  tires  during  the  Winter.  Snow  tires  can
be  identified  by  a  “mountain/snowflake”
symbol on the tire sidewall.
If  you  need  snow  tires,  select  tires
equivalent  in  size  and  type  to  the
original  equipment  tires.  Use  snow
 CAUTION!
Avoid  products  or  automatic  car  washes
that  use  acidic  solutions  or  strong  alkaline
additives  or  harsh  brushes.  Many
aftermarket  wheel  cleaners  and  automatic
car  washes  may  damage  the  wheel's
protective  finish.  Such  damage  is  not
covered  by  the  New  Vehicle  Limited
Warranty.  Only  car  wash  soap  is
recommended.
 CAUTION!
Do  not  use  scouring  pads,  steel  wool,  a
bristle  brush,  metal  polishes  or  oven
cleaner.  These  products  may  damage  the
wheel's  protective  finish.  Such  damage  is
not  covered  by  the  New  Vehicle  Limited
Warranty.  Only  car  wash  soap  is
recommended.
 CAUTION!
If  your  vehicle  is  equipped  with  these
specialty  wheels,  DO  NOT  USE  wheel
cleaners,  abrasives,  or  polishing
compounds. They will permanently damage
this finish and such  damage is not covered
by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. HAND
WASH ONLY USING MILD SOAP AND WATER
WITH  A  SOFT  CLOTH.  Used  on  a  regular
basis; this is all that is required to maintain
this finish.
 WARNING!
Do  not  use  Summer  tires  in  snow/ice
conditions.  You  could  lose  vehicle  control,
resulting  in  severe  injury  or  death.  Driving
too  fast  for  conditions  also  creates  the
possibility of loss of vehicle control.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 246   

247
(Continued)
tires  only  in  sets  of  four;  failure  to  do  so  may
adversely  affect  the  safety  and  handling  of
your vehicle.
Snow tires generally have lower speed ratings
than  what  was  originally  equipped  with  your
vehicle  and  should  not  be  operated  at
sustained  speeds  over  75 mph  (120 km/h).
For speeds above 75 mph (120 km/h) refer to
original equipment or an authorized tire dealer
for  recommended  safe  operating  speeds,
loading and cold tire inflation pressures.
While  studded  tires  improve  performance  on
ice,  skid  and  traction  capability  on  wet  or  dry
surfaces  may  be  poorer  than  that  of
non-studded  tires.  Some  states  prohibit
studded  tires;  therefore,  local  laws  should  be
checked before using these tire types.
Tire Chains and Traction Devices
It  is  possible  to  fit  13 mm  chains  on  all  the
tires except for R20.
Use  of  traction  devices  require  sufficient
tire-to-body  clearance.  Follow  these  recom-
mendations to guard against damage.
NOTE:
Traction  device  must  be  of  proper  size  for
the  tire,  as  recommended  by  the  traction
device manufacturer.
Use on rear tires only.
Check the tension of  the snow chains after
the first few meters have been driven.
Using  snow  chains  with  tires  with  non-orig -
inal dimensions may damage the vehicle.
Using  different  tires  sizes  or  types  (M+S,
snow, etc.) between the front and rear axles
may  adversely  affect  vehicle  driveability,
with the risk of losing control of the vehicle
and resulting accidents.
Tire Rotation Recommendations
Tires  on  the  front  and  rear  axles  of  vehicles
operate  at  different  loads  and  perform
different  steering,  driving,  and  braking  func -
tions. For these reasons, they wear at unequal
rates. These effects can be reduced by timely
rotation  of  tires.  Rotation  will  increase  tread
life, maintain traction levels and contribute to
a smooth, quiet ride.
To  resolve  this  problem,  tires  should  be
rotated at each service interval (approximately
every  10,000 miles  [16,000 km]).  More
frequent rotation is permissible if desired. The
reasons for any rapid or unusual wear should
be corrected prior to rotation being performed.
Tire  Rotations  Not  Recommended  —  If
Equipped
Due to different size tires and wheels on front
and rear axles tire rotation is not possible for:
2.0T  GME  Engine  equipped  with  a  different
front and rear tire size.
 CAUTION!
To  avoid  damage  to  your  vehicle  or  tires,
observe the following precautions:
Because  of  restricted  traction  device
clearance  between  tires  and  other
suspension  components,  it  is  important
that  only  traction  devices  in  good  condi -
tion  are  used.  Broken  devices  can  cause
serious damage. Stop the vehicle immedi -
ately  if  noise  occurs  that  could  indicate
device  breakage.  Remove  the  damaged
parts of the device before further use.
Install  device  as  tightly  as  possible  and
then  retighten  after  driving  about  ½  mile
(0.8 km).
Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
Drive  cautiously  and  avoid  severe  turns
and large bumps, especially with a loaded
vehicle.
Do not drive for a prolonged period on dry
pavement.
Observe  the  traction  device  manufac -
turer’s  instructions  on  the  method  of
installation,  operating  speed,  and  condi -
tions  for  use.  Always  use  the  suggested
operating  speed  of  the  device  manufac -
turer’s if it is less than 30 mph (48 km/h).
Do not use traction devices on a compact
spare tire.
 CAUTION!  (Continued)
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 247   

253
For  the  enthusiasts,  the  technician,  or  those
who  just  want  to  know  every  detail  of  their
vehicle,  useful  information  on  understanding
how  your  vehicle  works  is  contained  in  this
chapter  and  illustrated  with  data,  tables,  and
graphics.
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION 
NUMBER (VIN)
The  Vehicle  Identification  Number  (VIN)  is
stamped on a plate on the front left corner of
the  dashboard  trim,  which  can  be  seen  from
outside the vehicle, through the windshield.Windshield VIN Location
Vehicle Identification Number
The  Vehicle  Identification  Number  (VIN)  is
stamped on a plate on the front left corner of
the  dashboard  trim,  which  can  be  seen  from
outside the vehicle, through the windshield.Windshield VIN Location
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Plate
The plates are located on the left side A-pillar
and contain the data about:
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Vehicle type (USA and Canada only).
Color code.
Place  of manufacturing of  the vehicle  (USA
and Mexico only).
Vehicle manufacturing date.
Maximum permitted weights.
Permitted  tire  inflation  pressure  (USA  and
Canada only).
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 253   

271
J
Jump Starting ............................................. 201
K
Keyless Enter-N-Go ...................................... 25Passive Entry ............................................ 25
Keys .............................................................. 18
L
Lane Change And Turn Signals ................... 44
LaneSense ..................................................126
Lap/Shoulder Belts ....................................164
Latches .......................................................190
Leaks, Fluid ................................................190
Life Of Tires.................................................243
Liftgate .......................................................... 62
Light Bulbs ..................................................190 Types Of Bulbs ....................................... 230
Lights .......................................................... 190 Air Bag ...........................................169, 189
Automatic Headlights .............................. 43
Brake Warning .................................. 74, 75Courtesy/Reading ............................. 45, 46Daytime Running ..................................... 42
Electronic Stability Program(ESP)  Indicator ............................................... 79
Exterior ................................................... 190
Fog ............................................................ 44
Headlight Switch ............................... 42, 43 Headlights ......................................... 42, 43
High Beam ................................................ 43
Instrument Cluster ............................ 42, 43Intensity Control ....................................... 46
Interior ............................................... 45, 46
Low Fuel ................................................... 80 Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine).... 77
Map .......................................................... 45
Park ....................................................44, 78
Reading .................................................... 45
Seat Belt Reminder ................................. 75
Turn Signals ..............................44, 78, 190
Warning Instrument Cluster 
Descriptions ...................................78, 79
Loading Vehicle .......................................... 135 Tires ........................................................ 237
Locks Automatic Door ........................................ 27
Child Protection ....................................... 27
M
Maintenance ................................................ 61
Malfunction Indicator Light 
(Check Engine) .......................................77, 85
Manual Service.................................................... 268
Memory Feature (Memory Seats) ............... 30
Memory Seat ................................................ 30
Methanol .................................................... 260
Mirrors .......................................................... 37 Automatic Dimming ................................. 37
Electric Powered ...................................... 38
Electric Remote ....................................... 38
Heated...................................................... 39
O
Occupant Restraints .................................. 163
Oil Pressure Light ......................................... 79
Oil, Engine Capacity.................................................. 262
Pressure Warning Light ........................... 79 Recommendation.................................. 262
Viscosity ................................................. 262
Opener, Garage Door (Homelink) ................39
Operator Manual Owner's Manual..................................... 268
Outlet Power ........................................................ 56
Overheating, Engine .................................. 204
P
Paintwork (Cleaning And Maintenance) .. 250
Panic Brake Assist (PBA) System ............. 149
Park Assist ................................................. 123
ParkSense System .................................... 123
Passive Entry ................................................25
Pets ............................................................ 189
Placard, Tire And Loading Information .... 237
Power Mirrors.......................................................38Outlet (Auxiliary Electrical Outlet)............56
Seats .........................................................33
Sunroof .....................................................59
Power Seats Forward .............................................. 31, 33
Rearward ........................................... 31, 33
Recline ............................................... 31, 33
Power Supply ............................................. 255
Pregnant Women And Seat Belts ............. 167
Pretensioners Seat Belts .............................................. 167
Prolonged Vehicle Inactivity ...................... 249
R
Radial Ply Tires .......................................... 242
Radio Transmitters And Mobile Phones ....... 5
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 271