stop start Alfa Romeo 4C 2015 Owner handbook (in English)

SYMBOLS
Some car components have coloured
labels whose symbols indicate
precautions to be observed when using
this component. Under the engine
cover there is also a label that
summarises all the symbols.
ALFA ROMEO CODE
SYSTEM
IN BRIEF
This is an electronic engine locking
system which increases protection
against attempted thefts of the car. It
is automatically activated when the
ignition key is removed.
There is an electronic device in each
key which can identify the signal
emitted, when the engine is started,
from an aerial built into the ignition
switch. The signal, which changes
each time the engine is started, is the
“password” by means of which the
control unit recognises the key and
enables starting.
1)
Operation
Each time the car is started by turning
the ignition key to MAR-ON, the Alfa
Romeo CODE system control unit
sends an acknowledgement code to
the engine management control unit to
deactivate the inhibitor.
The code is sent only if the Alfa Romeo
CODE system control unit has
recognised the code transmitted by the
key.Each time the ignition key is turned to
STOP, the Alfa Romeo CODE system
deactivates the functions of the engine
management control unit.
Irregular operation
If, during starting, the code is not
correctly recognised, the
digital
warning light switches on in the display.
In this case, turn the key to STOP and
then to MAR-ON; if it is still locked,
try again with the other keys that come
with the vehicle. If it is still not possible
to start the engine, contact the
dedicated Alfa Romeo Dealership.
Activation of warning
light while driving
❒If the
digital warning light on the
display switches on, this means that
the system is running a self-diagnosis
(for example due to a voltage drop).
❒If the
digital warning light remains
on, contact the dedicated Alfa
Romeo Dealership.
10
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR

Deactivation
Press the
button.
The following operations are performed
(for versions/markets, where provided):
❒two brief flashes of the direction
indicators;
❒unlocking of the doors.
IMPORTANT If the central door locking
system is released using the metal
insert of the key, the alarm is not
disabled.
IMPORTANT In the event of accidental
activation of the alarm, or in any case to
interrupt the acoustic and visual signal
cycle when activated, it is possible
to press the
button or turn the
ignition key to MAR-ON for at least 5
seconds, after which the system will
deactivate.
Disabling
To completely disable the alarm (e.g.
during a lengthy period of car inactivity),
lock the car by turning the metal insert
of the key in the door lock.
IMPORTANT If the batteries of the key
with remote control run out or there is a
fault in the system, the alarm can be
switched off by inserting the key in the
ignition switch and turning it to
MAR-ON.Volumetric/anti-lift
protection
To ensure the correct operation of the
protection, completely close the side
windows.
To disable the volumetric protection,
turn the ignition key from STOP to
MAR-ON twice in a row, then activate
the alarm within 15 seconds, pressing
the
button on the remote control.
When the function is deactivated, this is
indicated by the LED on the dashboard
flashing for several seconds.
To disable the anti-lift protection as well,
the ignition key must be turned from
STOP to MAR-ON three times in a row,
followed by activating the alarm within
15 seconds, pressing the
button
on the remote control.
When the function is deactivated, this is
indicated by the LED on the dashboard
flashing for several seconds.
Any disabling of the volumetric/anti-lift
protection must be repeated each
time the instrument panel is switched
off.
IGNITION SWITCH
Operation
The key can be turned to three different
positions fig. 9:
❒STOP: engine off, key can be
removed, steering column locked.
Some electrical devices (e.g. radio,
central door locking system, alarm,
etc.) are still available;
❒MAR-ON: driving position. All
electrical devices are available;
❒AVV: engine starting.
The ignition switch is fitted with a safety
system that requires the ignition key
to be turned back to STOP if the engine
does not start, before the starting
operation can be repeated.
2) 3)
9A0L0010
14
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR

Move the stalk upwards (unstable
position) to limit operation to the time
for which the stalk is held manually
in this position. When released, the
stalk will return to its initial position and
the screen wiper will be stopped
automatically.
With ring nut A fig. 23 in
position,
the screen wiper will automatically
adapt its operating speed to the speed
of the car.
"Smart washing"
function
Pull the stalk towards the steering
wheel (unstable position) to operate the
screen washer. Keeping the stalk pulled
for more than half a second, with just
one movement it is possible to operate
the screen washer jet and the wiper
at the same time.
The wiper stops working three strokes
after the stalk is released. A further
stroke after approximately 6 seconds
completes the cycle.
WARNING
12) Do not use the screen wiper to
remove layers of snow or ice
from the windscreen. In such
conditions, the screen wiper may
be subjected to excessive stress
and the motor cut-out switch,
which prevents operation for
a few seconds, may intervene. If
operation is not subsequently
restored (even after using the key
to restart the engine), contact
the dedicated Alfa Romeo
Dealership.
13) Do not operate the screen wiper
with the blades lifted from the
windscreen.
CRUISE CONTROL
(for versions/markets, where provided)
IN BRIEF
This is an electronically controlled
driving assistance device that allows
the desired car speed to be
maintained, without having to press
the accelerator pedal. This device
can be used at a speed above
30 km/h on long stretches of dry,
straight roads with few variations
(e.g. motorways).
It is therefore not recommended to
use this device on extra-urban roads
with traffic. Do not use it in town.
Activation
Turn ring nut A fig. 24 to
.
24A0L0022
30
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CAR

SPEEDOMETER (SPEED
INDICATOR)
Indicator J shows the speed of the car.
REV COUNTER
Light C shows the engine revs.
FUEL LEVEL GAUGE
Gauge G shows the amount of fuel in
the tank.
The switching on of the
digital
warning light indicates that 4–5 litres of
fuel are left in the tank; in this situation,
refuel as soon as possible.
Do not travel with the fuel tank almost
empty: any gaps in fuel delivery could
damage the catalytic converter.
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE
INDICATOR
Indicator A shows the temperature of
the engine coolant and starts supplying
indications when the fluid temperature
exceeds approximately 50°C.
The
digital warning light may switch
on (together with a message on the
display) to indicate that the coolant
temperature is too high; in this case,
stop the engine and contact a
dedicated Alfa Romeo Dealership.GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR
The GSI (Gear Shift Indicator) system
advises the driver to change gear
through a specific indication E fig. 59
on the instrument panel.
Through the GSI, the driver is notified
that changing gear will allow a
reduction in fuel consumption.
Therefore, for driving oriented towards
reducing fuel consumption, it is
advisable to stick to “Natural” or “All
Weather” mode and to follow the
suggestions of the Gear Shift Indicator,
where traffic conditions permit.
When the (
) icon is displayed on the
instrument panel, the GSI suggests
switching to a higher gear, while when
the (
) icon is displayed, the GSI
suggests changing to a lower gear.
IMPORTANT The GSI is not active
when the transmission is operating in
AUTO mode.
IMPORTANT The indication in the
instrument panel remains on until the
driver shifts gear or the driving
conditions go back to a situation where
gearshifting is not required to improve
consumption.
SETUP MENU
CONTROL BUTTONS
SET/
: press briefly to access the
menu and/or go to next screen or
confirm the selection. Hold down to
return to the standard screen fig. 61.
: to scroll up through the displayed
screen and the related options or to
increase the displayed value.
: to scroll down through the
displayed menu and the related options
or to decrease the value displayed.
IMPORTANT The
andbuttons
activate different functions according to
the following situations:
❒within the menu, they allow you to
scroll up and down through the
options;
61A0L0125
64
KNOWING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL

Warning lights on
panelWhat it means What to do
amberINJECTION/EOBD SYSTEM FAILURE
In normal conditions, when the ignition key is turned to
MAR-ON the warning light switches on, but should
switch off as soon as the engine is started.
The operation of the
warning light may be checked
by the traffic police using specific devices. Comply with
the laws and regulations of the country where you are
driving.5)
If the warning light stays on or switches on when driving,
it means that the injection system is not working
properly; in particular, if the warning light comes on
constantly, this indicates a malfunction in the supply/
ignition system that could cause excessive exhaust
emissions, a possible loss of performance, poor
driveability and high fuel consumption.
On some versions, the display shows the dedicated
message.
The warning light switches off if the malfunction
disappears, but it is still stored by the system.Under these conditions, you may continue
travelling at a moderate speed without
demanding excessive effort from the
engine. Prolonged use of the car with the
warning light on constantly may cause
damage.
Contact the dedicated Alfa Romeo
Dealership as soon as possible.
If the warning light flashes, it means that the catalytic
converter may be damaged.In this case, it is necessary to release the
accelerator pedal to lower the speed of
the engine until the warning light stops
flashing. Continue the journey at moderate
speed, trying to avoid driving conditions
that may cause further flashing and
contact the dedicated Alfa Romeo
Dealership as soon as possible.
77

Warning lights on
displayWhat it means What to do
redENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE
TOO HIGH
The digital warning light switches on when
the key is turned to MAR-ON, but it should
switch off after a few seconds. The warning
light switches on when the engine is
overheated.
The display shows the dedicated message.When driving normally: stop the car, switch off the
engine and check that the water level in the reservoir is
not below the MIN mark. If it is, wait for the engine to
cool down then slowly and carefully open the cap, top
up with coolant and check that the level is between the
MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. Also check
visually for any fluid leaks. Should the warning light turn
on again at the next start-up, contact the dedicated
Alfa Romeo Dealership.
If the car is used under demanding conditions (e.g. in
high-performance driving): slow down and, if the
warning light stays on, stop the car. Wait for 2 or 3
minutes with the engine running and slightly
accelerated to further favour the coolant circulation.
Then stop the engine. Check the correct coolant level
as described above.
IMPORTANT Over demanding routes, it is advisable to
keep the engine on and slightly accelerated for a few
minutes before switching it off.
Warning lights on
displayWhat it means What to do
redALTERNATOR FAILURE
The digital warning light switches on, only with
engine started, when an alternator fault is
detected.Contact the dedicated Alfa Romeo Dealership as
soon as possible.
83

SBR SYSTEM (Seat
Belt Reminder)
IN BRIEF
This system comprises an acoustic
warning which, in conjunction with
the
warning light flashing on the
instrument panel, advises the driver if
their seat belt has not been fastened.
Contact the dedicated Alfa Romeo
Dealership to deactivate this acoustic
warning permanently.
The acoustic warning can be
reactivated at any time through the
Setup Menu (see "Menu Options"
paragraph in “Knowing the
instrument panel” section).
If the driver side seat belt is not
fastened, when 20 km/h is exceeded or
when travelling at a speed from 10 to
20 km/h for longer than 5 seconds, an
acoustic signal sequence will be started
(continuous acoustic signal for the first
6 seconds followed by 90 seconds
of intermittent beeping) and the
warning light will flash.The warning light will stay on constantly
at the end of the cycle until the engine
is stopped. The acoustic signal is
interrupted immediately when the seat
belt is fastened.
If the seat belt is unfastened again
when driving the car, the acoustic signal
and the flashing warning light resume
as described previously.
PRETENSIONERS
The car is equipped with seat belt
pretensioners, which draw back the
seat belts by several centimetres in the
event of a strong frontal impact. This
guarantees the perfect adherence
of the seat belts to the occupant's
bodies before the retention action
begins.
It is evident that the pretensioners have
operated when the belt withdraws
toward the retractor.
This car is also equipped with a second
pretensioner (in the kick plate area). Its
activation is signalled by the shortening
of the metal cable.
A slight discharge of smoke may be
produced during the activation of the
pretensioner which is not in harmful and
does not involve any fire hazard.
IMPORTANT To obtain the highest
degree of protection from the action of
the pretensioner, wear the seat belt
tight to the chest and pelvis.
94
SAFETY

STARTING THE
ENGINE
Procedure84) 85) 86)
❒press the brake pedal;
❒turn the ignition key to AVV and
release it as soon as the engine
starts.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
8) 9)
❒If the engine does not start at the first
attempt, return the ignition key to
STOP before repeating the
procedure.
❒If, when the ignition key is at
MAR-ON, the
instrument panel
warning light stays on together with
the
warning light, turn the key
to STOP and then back to MAR-ON;
if the warning light stays on, try the
other keys provided with the vehicle.
If it is still not possible to start the
engine, contact a dedicated Alfa
Romeo Dealership.
❒Do not leave the ignition key at
MAR-ON when the engine is
stopped.WARMING UP THE
ENGINE JUST AFTER IT
HAS STARTED
Procedure
❒drive off slowly, letting the engine turn
at medium revs. Do not accelerate
abruptly;
❒do not demand full performance at
first. It is advisable to wait until the
digital engine coolant temperature
indicator starts moving.
SWITCHING OFF THE
ENGINE
Procedure
Turn the ignition key to STOP while the
engine is idling.10)
IMPORTANT After a demanding drive,
keep the engine idling for at least a
couple of minutes before stopping it, in
order to permit the temperature inside
the engine compartment to lower.
WARNING
84) It is dangerous to run the engine
in enclosed areas. The engine
takes in oxygen and releases
carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide
and other toxic gases.
85) The brake servo is not active
until the engine is started, so
you would need to apply much
more force than usual to the
brake pedal.
86) Do not start the engine by
pushing, towing or driving
downhill. These manoeuvres may
damage the catalytic converter.
IMPORTANT
8) It is advisable not to demand
maximum performance from your
car (e.g. excessive acceleration,
long distances at maximum rpm,
excessively intense braking, etc.)
when it is first used.
104
STARTING AND DRIVING

DISPLAYED
INFORMATION
When the key is turned to MAR-ON,
after about 1 second, the display
shows the transmission in neutral
indication (N). When driving, the display
shows the gear engaged and the active
mode (AUTOorMANUAL). The
indications on the display have the
following meanings:
N = neutral;
1 = first gear;
2 = second gear
3 = third gear;
4 = fourth gear;
5 = fifth gear;
6 = sixth gear;
R = reverse.
The car always starts in neutral. When
1st gear is requested, the system
forces the selection ofAUTOmode.
IMPORTANT If 10 seconds elapse with
the ignition key in theMAR-ON
position and the display does not show
the gear engaged, turn the key to the
STOPposition, wait for the display
to switch off and then repeat the
procedure. If the fault persists, contact
a dedicated Alfa Romeo Dealership.ACOUSTIC SIGNAL
For safety reasons, an acoustic signal is
emitted when the car is parked with
the transmission in neutral (N) (the
signal can be heard when the ignition
key is turned toSTOP).
With the car stationary, the engine
started and (1st) gear or (R) engaged,
the system activates the acoustic signal
and automatically places the
transmission in neutral (N) when:
❒the accelerator and/or brake pedal
are not operated for at least 3
minutes;
❒the brake pedal is pressed for longer
than 10 minutes;
❒the driver's door is opened and the
accelerator pedal or the brake pedal
are not operated for at least one
and a half seconds;
❒a fault has been detected in the
transmission.
PARKING THE CAR
When parking and leaving the car,
proceed as follows:
❒engage a gear (1st gear if facing
uphill or reverse if facing downhill)
and leave the wheels turned;
❒stop the engine and engage the
handbrake.Block the wheels with a wedge or a
stone if the car is parked on a steep
slope.
Wait until the indication of the gear
engaged disappears on the display
before releasing the brake pedal.
IMPORTANT:NEVERleave the car with
the transmission in neutral.
GENERAL WARNINGS
❒With car stationary and gear
engaged, always keep the brake
pedal pressed until you decide to set
off, then release the brake and
accelerate gradually.
❒During prolonged stops with the
engine running, it is advisable to keep
the transmission in neutral (N).
❒In order to safeguard the efficiency of
the clutch, do not use the accelerator
to keep the car stationary (e.g. when
stopped on an incline). The clutch
could overheat and be damaged: use
the brake pedal or the handbrake
and only operate the accelerator
pedal when you decide to set off.
❒If, with reverse gear (R) engaged, you
have to engage 1st gear or vice
versa, only do this when the car is
completely stationary and with the
brake pedal pressed.
110
STARTING AND DRIVING

DRIVING STYLE
Starting
Do not warm the engine with the car at
a standstill or at idle or high speed:
under these conditions the engine
warms up much more slowly, increasing
consumption and emissions. It is
therefore advisable to move off
immediately, slowly, avoiding high
speeds: in this way the engine will
warm up more quickly.
Unnecessary actions
Avoid accelerating when stopped at
traffic lights or before switching off the
engine. This action is absolutely
pointless and only increases
consumption and pollution.
Gear selection
Using a low gear for faster acceleration
increases consumption.
In the same way, improper use of a high
gear increases consumption,
emissions and engine wear.Max. speed
Fuel consumption increases
considerably with speed. Maintain a
constant speed, avoiding unnecessary
braking and acceleration, which cost
in terms of both fuel consumption and
emissions.
Acceleration
Accelerating violently will greatly affect
consumption and emissions: avoid
frequent and strong accelerations.
CONDITIONS OF USE
Cold starting
Short journeys and frequent cold starts
do not allow the engine to reach
optimum operating temperature.
This results in a significant increase in
consumption levels (from +15 to +30%
on the urban cycle) and emissions.
Traffic and road
conditions
Rather high consumption levels are
linked to situations with heavy traffic, for
instance when travelling in queues
with frequent use of the lower gears or
in cities with many traffic lights.Stops in traffic
During prolonged hold-ups (e.g. level
crossings) the engine should be
switched off.
112
STARTING AND DRIVING