
STARTING AND OPERATING
96
ENGINE RESTARTING CONDITIONS
Due to comfort, emission control, and safety 
reasons, the engine can restart automatically 
without any action by the driver, under special 
conditions, such as:
Battery not sufficiently charged.
Reduced braking system vacuum (e.g. if the 
brake pedal is pressed repeatedly).
Vehicle moving (e.g. when driving on roads 
with a grade).
Engine stopping by the Stop/Start system for 
more than approximately three minutes.
With the automatic climate control active, an 
adjustment in cabin heating or cooling is made 
or with MAX-DEF function active.
SAFETY FUNCTIONS
When the engine is stopped through the Stop/
Start system, if the driver releases their seat belt, 
opens the driver's or passenger's door, or opens 
the hood from inside the vehicle, the engine can 
be restarted only by using the ignition.
This condition is indicated to the driver both 
through a buzzer and a message on the 
instrument cluster display.
ENERGY SAVING FUNCTION
If the driver does not carry out any action for more 
than three minutes after the automatic engine 
restart, the Stop/Start system will switch off the 
engine in order to prevent fuel consumption.
In this situation, the engine can only be restarted 
using the ignition device.
NOTE:
It is possible to keep the engine running by deac-
tivating the system.
IRREGULAR OPERATION
In the event of malfunction, the Stop/Start 
system is deactivated.
For failure indications  
Ú
page 70.
VEHICLE INACTIVITY
In the event of vehicle inactivity (or if the battery 
is replaced), special attention must be paid to the 
disconnection of the battery power supply.
Proceed as follows:
Remove connector from socket to disconnect 
sensor (battery status monitoring) installed on 
the negative pole of the battery. This sensor 
should never be disconnected from the pole 
except if the battery is replaced. Battery Power Supply
NOTE:
After setting the ignition to OFF and having closed 
the driver side door, wait at least one minute 
before disconnecting the electrical supply from 
the battery. When reconnecting the electrical 
supply to the battery, make sure that the ignition 
is in the OFF position and the driver side door is 
closed.
1 — Socket
2 — Sensor
3 — Connector
22_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 96   

STARTING AND OPERATING
132
CONNECTING THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
To connect the trailer’s electrical system, see the 
following directions:
1. Remove the socket protective cover.
2. Completely insert the plug into the socket.Electrical Tow Connector
REMOVING THE RECEIVER
When the receiver is no longer needed, 
disconnect the electrical connections and 
remove it from its position using the following 
directions:
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
The following suggestions 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 191.
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 prema -
ture 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, 
additional 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 aerodynamic 
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.
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
22_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 132   

133
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 conditions 
allow it. Using a low gear for faster acceleration 
will increase fuel consumption. Improper use of a 
high gear increases consumption, emissions and 
engine wear.
Maximum Speed
Fuel consumption considerably increases as 
speed increases. Maintain a constant speed, 
avoiding unnecessary braking and acceleration, 
which cost in terms of both fuel consumption 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.
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 crossings), 
turn off the engine.
PERFORMANCE — QUADRIFOGLIO
This vehicle is equipped with an engine capable 
of delivering exceptionally fast acceleration and 
speed:
Peak power: 505 HP at 6,500 RPM.
Peak torque: 443 ft-lb 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 discovering 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 component 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 condensation 
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 maintenance opera
-
tions. 
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 191.
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 plan to use vehicle on 
a track it is recommended to use the optional 
CCM Brakes (Carbon Ceramic Brake disc).
22_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 133   

191
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 conditions.
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 Scheduled 
Servicing Plan (e.g. periodically check level of 
fluids, tire pressure, etc.).
Scheduled Servicing is offered by an authorized 
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 necessary; 
for further information  
Ú
page 197.
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, 
transmission, 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 predominately at idle 
or only very low engine RPM. This type of vehicle 
use is considered Severe Duty.
22_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 191   

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
222
TIRES — GENERAL INFORMATION 
Tire Pressure 
Proper tire inflation pressure is essential to the 
safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle. 
Four primary areas are affected by improper tire 
pressure:
Safety
Fuel Economy
Tread Wear
Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability
Safety Both underinflation and overinflation affect the 
stability of the vehicle and can produce a feeling 
of sluggish response or over responsiveness 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 consumption.
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 comfortable 
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 pressure 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.
 WARNING!
Improperly inflated tires are dangerous and 
can cause collisions.
Underinflation increases tire flexing and can 
result in overheating and tire failure.
Overinflation reduces a tire's ability to 
cushion shock. Objects on the road and 
chuckholes can cause damage that result in 
tire failure.
Overinflated or underinflated tires can affect 
vehicle handling and can fail suddenly, 
resulting in loss of vehicle control.
Unequal tire pressures can cause steering 
problems. You could lose control of your 
vehicle.
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.
 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.
22_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book  Page 222