tires Alfa Romeo 4C Spider 2018 Owner's Manual

FRONT VIEW
Front View
1 — Headlights
2 — Windshield
3 — Wheels/Tires4 — Exterior Mirrors
5 — Doors
8 GRAPHICAL TABLE OF CONTENTS

may be a malfunction with the charging system. Con-
tact your authorized dealer as soon as possible. This
indicates a possible problem with the electrical system
or a related component.
— Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
This light warns of an overheated engine condition. If
the engine coolant temperature is too high, this indica-
tor will illuminate and a single chime will sound. If the
temperature reaches the upper limit, a continuous
chime will be sound for four minutes or until the engine
is able to cool: whichever comes first.
If the light turns on while driving, safely pull over and
stop the vehicle. If the A/C system is on, turn it off.
Also, shift the transmission into NEUTRAL and idle the
vehicle. If the temperature reading does not return to
normal, turn the engine off immediately and call for
service. Refer to “If Your Engine Overheats” in “In Case
Of Emergency” for further information.
Yellow Warning Lights
— Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Warning Light
The warning light switches on and a message is dis-
played to indicate that the tire pressure is lower than the recommended value and/or that slow pressure loss
is occurring. In these cases, optimal tire duration and
fuel consumption may not be guaranteed.
Should one or more tires be in the condition mentioned
above, the display will show the indications corre-
sponding to each tire in sequence.
CAUTION!
Do not continue driving with one or more flat tires
as handling may be compromised. Stop the vehicle,
avoiding sharp braking and steering. If a tire punc-
ture occurs, repair immediately using the dedicated
tire repair kit and contact your authorized dealer as
soon as possible.
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be
checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation
pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on
the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If
your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pres-
sure label, you should determine the proper tire infla-
tion pressure for those tires.)
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As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been
equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale
when one or more of your tires is significantly under-
inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale
illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as
soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pres-
sure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire
causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire
tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and
stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper
tire maintenance, and it is the driver ’s responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation
has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the
TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS
malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is
not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indica-
tor is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When
the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash
for approximately one minute and then remain continu-
ously illuminated. This sequence will continue uponsubsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction
exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated,
the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire
pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for
a variety of reasons, including the installation of re-
placement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle
that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Al-
ways check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replac-
ing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and
wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function prop-
erly.
CAUTION!
The TPMS has been optimized for the original
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and
warning have been established for the tire size
equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system op-
eration or sensor damage may result when using
replacement equipment that is not of the same size,
type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels can cause
sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire sealants may
cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
(Continued)
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GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 81

SAFETY FEATURES
Four-Wheel Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
The Four-Wheel ABS is designed to aid the driver in
maintaining vehicle control under adverse braking condi-
tions. The system operates with a separate computer to
modulate hydraulic pressure, to prevent wheel lock-up
and to help avoid skidding on slippery surfaces.
The system’s pump motor runs during an ABS stop to
provide regulated hydraulic pressure. The pump motor
makes a low humming noise during operation, which is
normal.
The ABS includes an amber ABS Warning Light. When
the light is illuminated, the ABS is not functioning. The
system reverts to standard non-anti-lock brakes. Turn-
ing the ignition OFF and ON again may reset the ABS if
the fault detected was only momentary.
WARNING!
•When the ABS intervenes and you feel the brake
pedal pulsating, do not reduce the pressure, but
hold it down firmly and confidently; in doing so
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
you will brake in the shortest distance possible,
depending on the current road conditions.
• For maximum efficiency of the braking system, a
bedding-in period of about 311 miles (500 km) is
required: during this period it is advisable to
avoid sharp, repeated and prolonged braking.
• If the ABS intervenes, this indicates that the grip
of the tires on the road is nearing its limit: you
must slow down to a speed compatible with the
available grip.
• The ABS can’t overrule the natural laws of phys-
ics, and can’t increase the grip available according
to the condition of the road.
• The ABS cannot prevent accidents, including
those due to excessive speed on corners, driving
on low-grip surfaces or aquaplaning.
•
The capability of the ABS must never be tested
irresponsibly and dangerously, in such a way as to
compromise personal safety and the safety of others.
• For the correct operation of the ABS, the tires
must of necessity be the same make and type on
all wheels, in perfect condition and, above all, of
the prescribed type and dimensions.
90 SAFETY

WARNING!(Continued)
inflated and unevenly worn tires may also de-
grade ESC performance. Any vehicle modifica-
tion 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.
The ESC system uses sensors installed on the vehicle to
determine the trajectory that the driver intends to
follow and compares it with the vehicles effective
trajectory. When the real trajectory deviates from the
desired trajectory, the ESC system intervenes to counter
the vehicles understeer or oversteer.
• 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.
This vehicle’s advanced electronic brake control system
also includes: Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Anti-
Lock Brake System (ABS), Cornering Brake Control
System (CBC), Drag Torque Control System (DTC), AntiSlip Regulation System (ASR), Hill Start Assist
(HSA), Hydraulic Brake Assistant System (HBA),
ELECTRONIC Q2 system (E-Q2) and Ready Alert Brake
(RAB). All of the systems work together to enhance
vehicle stability and control in various driving condi-
tions, and are commonly referred to as ESC.
System Activation
The ESC system activates automatically when the en-
gine is started and can only be deactivated by selecting
Race
mode. Refer to the Six-Speed Alfa Twin Clutch
Transmission in “Starting And Operating.”
System Intervention
This is indicated by the flashing of the warning light on
the instrument panel, to inform the driver that the
vehicle is in critical stability and grip conditions.
Electronic Brake Distribution System (EBD)
The EBD system is an integral part of the ESC system
and intervenes during braking, distributing the brake
force optimally between front and rear wheels.
This guarantees greater braking stability for the vehicle,
preventing sudden locking of the rear wheels and the
consequent instability of the vehicle.
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Cornering Brake Control System (CBC)
The system acts when braking on corners, optimizing
the distribution of brake pressure on the four wheels:
the system prevents the wheels on the inside of the
corner (less affected by the weight of the vehicle) from
locking, ensuring better stability and direction for the
vehicle.
Drag Torque Control System (DTC)
This is an integral part of the ESC system and inter-
venes in the event of sudden downshifting, or during
braking when the ABS intervenes, restoring torque to
the engine and thus preventing excessive drag at the
drive wheels, which may lead the wheels to lock and a
loss of vehicle stability, above all in low-grip conditions.
AntiSlip Regulation System (ASR)
WARNING!
•Electronic Stability Control (ESC) cannot prevent
the natural laws of physics from acting on the
vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded
(Continued)
WARNING! (Continued)
by prevailing road conditions. ESC cannot pre-
vent all collisions, including those resulting from
excessive speed in turns, driving on very slippery
surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also cannot pre-
vent collisions resulting from loss of vehicle
control due to inappropriate driver input for the
conditions. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful
driver can prevent collisions. 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 properly
maintain your vehicle, may change the handling
characteristics of your vehicle, and may nega-
tively affect the performance of the ESC system.
Changes to the steering system, suspension, brak-
ing system, tire type and size or wheel size may
adversely affect ESC performance. Improperly
inflated and unevenly worn tires may also de-
grade ESC performance. Any vehicle modifica-
tion 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.
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SAFETY 93

Electronic Q2 System (E-Q2)
TheElectronic Q2 system intervenes during accelera-
tion on corners, braking the inner drive wheel and thus
increasing the traction of the outer wheel (which bears
more of the vehicles weight): the torque is thus distrib-
uted optimally between the drive wheels in accordance
with the driving conditions and road surface, permit-
ting particularly effective, sporty driving.
Ready Alert Brake System (RAB)
This function activates automatically if the accelerator
pedal is released rapidly, reducing the brake pad travel
(both at front and back), with the aim of preparing the
braking system and enhancing its responsiveness, thus
reducing the stopping distance in the event of subse-
quent braking.
AUXILIARY DRIVING SYSTEMS
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) will warn the
driver of a low tire pressure based on the vehicle
recommended cold tire pressure.
The tire pressure will vary with temperature by about 1
psi (7 kPa) for every 12°F (6.5°C). This means that when the outside temperature decreases, the tire pressure will
decrease. Tire pressure should always be set based on
cold inflation tire pressure. This 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 a
three hour period. The cold tire inflation pressure must
not exceed the maximum inflation pressure molded into
the tire sidewall. Refer to “Tires” in “Servicing And
Maintenance” for information on how to properly in-
flate the vehicle’s tires. The tire pressure will also
increase as the vehicle is driven - this is normal and
there should be no adjustment for this increased pres-
sure.
The TPMS will warn the driver of a low tire pressure if
the tire pressure falls below the low pressure warning
limit for any reason, including low temperature effects,
or natural pressure loss through the tire.
The TPMS will continue to warn the driver of low tire
pressure as long as the condition exists, and will not
turn off until the tire pressure is at or above the
recommended cold placard pressure. Once the low tire
pressure warning (Tire Pressure Monitoring [TPM] Tell-
tale Light) illuminates, you must increase the tire pres-
sure to the recommended cold placard pressure in order
for the TPM Telltale Light to turn off. The system will
96 SAFETY

automatically update and the TPM Telltale Light will
turn off once the system receives the updated tire
pressures. The vehicle may need to be driven for up to
20 minutes above 15 mph (24 km/h) in order for the
TPMS to receive this information.
For example, your vehicle may have a recommended
cold (parked for more than three hours) placard pres-
sure of 30 psi (207 kPa). If the ambient temperature is
68°F (20°C) and the measured tire pressure is 27 psi (186
kPa), a temperature drop to 20°F (-7°C) will decrease
the tire pressure to approximately 23 psi (158 kPa). This
tire pressure is sufficiently low enough to turn ON the
TPM Telltale Light. Driving the vehicle may cause the
tire pressure to rise to approximately 27 psi (186 kPa),
but the TPM Telltale Light will still be ON. In this
situation, the TPM Telltale Light will turn OFF only
after the tires are inflated to the vehicle’s recommended
cold placard pressure value.
CAUTION!
•The TPMS has been optimized for the original
equipment tires and wheels. TPMS pressures and
warnings have been established for the tire size
(Continued)
CAUTION! (Continued)
equipped on your vehicle. Undesirable system
operation or sensor damage may result when
using replacement equipment that is not of the
same size, type, and/or style. Aftermarket wheels
can cause sensor damage. Using aftermarket tire
sealants may cause the Tire Pressure Monitoring
System (TPMS) sensor to become inoperable.
After using an aftermarket tire sealant it is recom-
mended that you take your vehicle to an autho-
rized dealer to have your sensor function checked.
• 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 Tire Pressure
Monitoring Sensor.
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 pressure
gauge while adjusting your tire pressure.
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SAFETY 97

•Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes
the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure.
Under-inflation 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 mainte-
nance, and it is the driver ’s responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressure using an accurate tire gauge,
even if under-inflation has not reached the level to
trigger illumination of the Tire Pressure Monitoring
Telltale Light.
• Seasonal temperature changes will affect tire pres-
sure, and the TPMS will monitor the actual tire
pressure in the tire.
Base System
This is the TPMS warning indicator located in
the instrument cluster. The TPMS uses wireless technology with wheel rim
mounted electronic sensors to monitor tire pressure
levels. Sensors, mounted to each wheel as part of the
valve stem, transmit tire pressure readings to the Re-
ceiver Module.
NOTE:
It is particularly important for you to check the
tire pressure in all of the tires on your vehicle regularly
and to maintain the proper pressure.
The TPMS consists of the following components:
• Receiver Module.
• Four Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensors.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light.
Tire Pressure Monitoring Low Pressure Warnings
The Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light will illumi-
nate in the instrument cluster, an acoustic signal will be
activated, and the “Check left or right front/rear tire”
text message will display when one or more of the four
active road tire pressures are low. Should this occur, you
should stop as soon as possible, check the inflation
pressure of each tire on your vehicle, and inflate each
tire to the vehicle’s recommended cold placard pressure
value. The system will automatically update and the
98 SAFETY

Tire Pressure Monitoring Light will extinguish once the
updated tire pressures have been received. The vehicle
may need to be driven for up to 20 minutes above
15 mph (24 km/h) to receive this information.
Check TPMS Warnings
The Tire Pressure Monitoring Telltale Light will flash on
and off for 75 seconds and remain on solid when a
system fault is detected, the “TIRE PRESSURE MONI-
TORING UNAVAILABLE” text message will display. If
the ignition key is cycled, this sequence will repeat
providing the system fault still exists. The Tire Pressure
Monitoring Telltale Light will turn off when the fault
condition no longer exists. A system fault can occur
with any of the following scenarios:
1. Jamming due to electronic devices or driving next tofacilities emitting the same radio frequencies as the
TPM sensors.
2. Installing some form of aftermarket window tinting that affects radio wave signals.
3. Snow or ice around the wheels or wheel housings.
4. Using tire chains on the vehicle. 5. Using wheels/tires not equipped with TPM sensors.
NOTE:
Your vehicle may be equipped with a compact
spare wheel and tire assembly.
1. The compact spare tire does not have a tire pressure monitoring sensor. Therefore, the TPMS will not
monitor the tire pressure in the compact spare tire.
2. If you install the compact spare tire in place of a road tire that has a pressure below the low-pressure
warning limit, upon the next ignition key cycle, a
chime will sound and the Tire Pressure Monitoring
Telltale Light will still turn ON due to the low tire.
3.
However, after driving the vehicle for up to 20 minutes
above 15 mph (24 km/h), the Tire Pressure Monitoring
Telltale Light will flash on and off for 75 seconds and
then remain on solid.
4. This occurs for each subsequent ignition key cycle, a chime will sound and the Tire Pressure Monitoring
Telltale Light will flash on and off for 75 seconds and
then remain on solid.
5
SAFETY 99