2021 ALFA ROMEO STELVIO Owners Manual

215

Checking Levels — 2.9L Engine
Engine Oil
The engine oil level can be seen on the instru-
ment cluster display every time the engine is
started, or on the Information and Entertain -
ment system display by activating on the main
menu (MENU button) the following functions in
sequence:
1. “Apps”
2. “My Car”
3. “Oil Level” Check that the oil level is between the MIN and
MAX level on the instrument cluster display
using the 6 notches shown. 1 notch displays
the MIN level and 6 notches displays the MAX
level.
If the oil level is close to or below the MIN
mark, add oil gradually through the filler, (refer
to “Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On
Display” in this section) considering that each
notch shown on the display corresponds to
approximately 8.8 fl oz (250 ml).
The oil level can also be checked manually on
2.9L Quadrifoglio models.
1 – Engine Coolant Reservoir Cap
4 – Intercooler Coolant Reservoir Cap
2 – Brake Fluid Reservoir Cap Access Cover 5 – Engine Oil Dipstick
3 – Windshield/Headlight Washer Fluid Reservoir Cap 6 – Engine Oil Filler
CAUTION!
Make sure not to add too much oil when
topping off the engine. Engine oil in excess
may damage the engine. Have the vehicle
checked. Never exceed the MAX level when
topping off engine oil. It is advisable to
check the oil level in intermediate steps
using the oil dipstick (2.9L Quadrifoglio
Only).
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 215

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

216

NOTE:

Always reinstall the oil cap and tighten to
proper torque whenever it is removed to add
oil to engine. Never run the engine with cap
removed as this could cause oil to leak from
engine.
Manual Oil Level Checking Procedure — 2.9L
Quadrifoglio
Check that the oil level is between the MIN and
MAX marks on dipstick, clean it with a lint-free
cloth and reinsert it. Extract the dipstick again
and check that the level is between the MIN
and MAX marks.
Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On
Display — 2.9L Quadrifoglio
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to
ensure the correct indication of the oil level on
the display, proceed with the process below:
Leave the car on flat ground with the engine
running for approximately five minutes
(temperature higher than 198°F (90°C)
and shut the engine off.
Wait for five minutes, turn the ignition to the
ACC mode without starting the engine and
wait for a few seconds.

NOTE:

If the level indication is not updated after the
previously described procedure, repeat the
engine adjustment, shut the engine off and
wait another five minutes before starting it
again. If the indication is not updated after the
second start, contact an authorized dealer.
Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On
Display — 2.0L
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to
ensure the correct indication of the oil level on
the display, proceed with the process below:
Leave the car on flat ground with the engine
running for approximately five minutes
(temperature higher than 176°F (80°C)
and shut the engine off.
Start the engine again and idle it for about
two minutes.

NOTE:

If you have added the specified amount of oil
and the indicator is not reading “Full”, please
contact an authorized dealer.
Engine Coolant Fluid
If the level is too low, unscrew the cap of the
reservoir and add the fluid described

Ú
page 263.
CAUTION!
The oil level is not refreshed immediately
on the display after topping off.
Consequently, wait for the oil level to be
refreshed on the display and follow the
procedure below.
WARNING!
If the engine oil is being topped up, wait for
the engine to cool down before loosening
the filler cap, particularly for vehicles with
aluminum cap (if equipped). WARNING: risk
of burns!
CAUTION!
The oil level must never exceed the MAX
mark.
If the MAX mark is exceeded (last notch on
the right turns red) after the fill-up, go to an
authorized dealer as soon as possible to
have the oil in excess removed.
Do not add oil with specifications different
from those of the oil already in the engine.
Used engine oil and oil filters contain
substances which are harmful to the
environment. To change the oil and filters,
we advise you to contact an authorized
dealer.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 216

217

Washer Fluid For Windshield/Headlights
The windshield and headlight (if equipped)
washer fluid reservoir is equipped with a tele-
scopic filler neck.
If the level is too low, remove reservoir cap and
lift the filler neck. Then, add the fluid
described
Ú
page 263. After filling the reser -
voir, lower the filler neck and install the reser -
voir cap until you hear it click.

NOTE:

The headlight washers are activated every 10
activations of the windshield washer.
note:
The headlight washing system will not work if
the liquid level is low (situation indicated by
the symbol on the instrument cluster display

Ú
page 69). The windshield washer will keep
working.
On vehicles equipped with headlight washers,
there is a reference notch on the dipstick:
ONLY the windshield/rear window washer
operates with the level below this reference.
Brake Fluid
Check that the fluid is at the maximum level. If
the fluid level in the tank is low, contact an
authorized dealer to have the system checked.
Automatic Transmission Activation System
Oil
The transmission control oil level should only
be checked at an authorized dealer.
Useful Advice For Extending The Life Of
Your Battery
To avoid draining your battery and make it last
longer, observe the following instructions:
When you park the vehicle, ensure that the
doors and liftgate are closed properly to
prevent any lights from remaining on inside
the passenger's compartment.
Do not keep accessories (e.g. radio, hazard
warning lights, etc.) switched on for a long
time when the engine is not running.
Before performing any operation on the
electrical system, disconnect the negative
battery cable.
If you wish to install electrical accessories
after purchasing the vehicle that require
permanent electrical supply (e.g. alarm, etc.),
or accessories which influence the electrical
supply requirements, contact an authorized
dealer, who’s qualified staff will evaluate the
overall electrical consumption.
NOTE:

After the battery is disconnected, the steering
must be initialized. The warning light on the
instrument cluster display switches on to indi
-
cate 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 position.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.
CAUTION!
If the charge level remains under 50% for a
long time, the battery may be damaged by
sulfation, reducing its capacity and
efficiency during the vehicle start. The
battery is also more prone to the risk of
freezing (at temperatures as high as 14°F
(-10°C).
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 217

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

218

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 liftgate with
a key or by pushing the button in the
passenger compartment when the battery is
disconnected. Always position the manual lift-
gate opening strap on the liftgate lock before disconnecting the battery. The procedure is
described in the “Liftgate Emergency
Opening”
Ú

page 62.
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 vehicle battery.
You can recharge the battery without discon -
necting the wires of the vehicle's electrical
system.
To reach the battery, remove the load floor
inside the liftgate.
Load Floor
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. If acid splashes in eyes
or on skin, flush the area immediately with
large amounts of water
Ú
page 201.
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!
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.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 218

219

Locate the battery access panel under the
load floor.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 Intelligent
Battery Sensor (IBS), which is able to measure
the charge and discharge voltage, 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 in 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.
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 prescribed level

Ú
page 214.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, for
example every 1,864 miles (3,000 km).
It must be checked about five minutes after
stopping the engine.
1 — Protective Cover
2 — Negative Post (Nut)
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 219

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

220

Full operating temperature must be 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:
1. “Applications”
2. “Vehicle Information”
3. “Oil level”
Ensure that the oil level is within the interval
on the dipstick between the minimum and
maximum limits (Quadrifoglio only).
Changing The Engine Oil
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 209.
Choice Of Engine Oil Type
To ensure optimal performance and maximum
protection in all operating conditions, it is
advised to use certified engine oils

Ú
page 263.
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 the disposal of the engine oil and filters,
contact the appropriate body to determine
local regulations.

NOTE:

Incorrectly disposed used engine oil may seri
-
ously harm the environment.
Engine Oil Filter
Replacing the Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter must be replaced each
time the engine oil is changed. It is advised to
replace it with a genuine spare part, specifi -
cally designed for this vehicle.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter
Replacing the Engine Air Cleaner Filter
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 209. It is advised to replace the engine
air cleaner filter with a genuine spare part,
specifically designed for this vehicle.
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. Replace The Cabin Air Filter
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú

page 209. For cleaner replacement, 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), liftgate and
hood are periodically lubricated with
lithium-based grease to ensure correct, silent
operation and to protect them from rust and
wear.
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.
WARNING!
Use only refrigerants and compressor
lubricants approved by the manufacturer
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.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 220

221

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. Opera-
tions of the hood are to be carried out with the
engine cold. 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, 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. It is advised
to replace the blades approximately 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 neces
-
sary, replace them.
Raising The Windshield Wiper Blades
(“Service Position” Function)
The “service position” function allows the
driver to replace the windshield wiper blades
easily. It is also recommended to activate this
function when it is snowing and to make it
easier to remove any dirt deposits in the area
where the blades are normally positioned,
while washing.

NOTE:

If the windshield wipers are raised while not in
the “service position,” it is possible to damage
the hood. Activation Of The Function
To activate this function, disable the wind
-
shield wiper before placing the ignition in the
OFF position.
This function can only be activated within two
minutes of placing the ignition in the OFF posi -
tion.
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 has passed before
placing the ignition in the OFF position after
raising the lever and placing the wipers in
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
WARNING!
Driving with worn windshield wiper blades
is a serious hazard, because visibility is
reduced in bad weather conditions.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 221

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

222

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, push 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. Front/Rear Windshield Washers
The window washer nozzles are fixed. If there
is no jet of fluid, first check that there is fluid in
the reservoir
Ú

page 214
Front Windshield Washers
Rear Windshield Washer Then, check that the nozzle holes are not
clogged; use a needle to unblock them if
necessary.
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, and prevent
it from getting damaged, it is extremely
important that the engine operates perfectly.
21_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 222