brake light Alfa Romeo 8C 2010 Owner handbook (in English)

4
ABBREVIATIONS
Some descriptions and terms with particular
meanings are found in this manual in an
abbreviated form:
A.C. - AIR CONDITIONING
ABS - ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM - Wheel
locking prevention system during
braking
ASR - ANTI-SLIP REGULATION - Prevention
of slipping during acceleration
CAN - CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK
DRL - DAY RUNNING LIGHTS
EBD - ELECTRONIC BRAKE-FORCE
DISTRIBUTION - Electronically-
controlled brake distributor
ECU - ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT
EPB - ELECTRIC PARKING BRAKE
– Automatic parking brake
ETD - EMERGENCY TENSIONING DEVICE
FTP - FLASH TO PASS – headlight fl ashingMSP - MOTOR SCHLEPPMOMENT
REGELUNG – Engine braking torque
adjustment
VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control
WET - “Low grip” function.
UPDATING
The high quality level of the vehicle is subject to
constant improvements. Therefore, there may
be differences between this manual and your
vehicle.
All specifi cations and illustrations contained in
this manual refer to those resulting as of the
printing date. CONSULTING THE
MANUAL
To facilitate reading and fast consultation, the
topics have been divided into sections and
chapters.
The important parts requiring particular attention
are easily identifi able in the sections and
chapters.
N.B.: EXTREME CAUTION
REQUIRED:
failure to comply with the instructions
could cause hazardous situations
involving personal and vehicle safety!
WARNING: warning aimed at preventing
any damage to the vehicle and thus hazards
involving the safety of persons.

14
1
BA
ELECTRONIC KEYCODE CARD
The car keys are provided with a CODE card,
which contains an electronic code
A, and a
mechanical code
B.
The codes must be kept in a safe place, not in
the vehicle.
WARNING: In the event of a vehicle ownership
transfer, it is essential that the new owner is
provided with the electronic key and with the
CODE card.
ALFA ROMEO
CODE SYSTEMThis is an electronic engine immobilizer system
which provides enhanced protection against
theft. It is automatically activated when the
electronic key is extracted from the ignition
block.
Each electronic key contains an electronic
device that translates the signal emitted upon
ignition by an antenna incorporated in the seat
of the electronic key on the dashboard. This
signal is the “password” (always different for
each ignition) with which the ECU recognises
the electronic key and allows the engine to be
started.OPERATION
Each time the ignition key is removed from
position STOP the protection system activates
the engine immobilizer.
Upon starting the engine, when the key is turned
to MAR:
1) If the code is recognised, the CODE

warning light on the instrument panel turns
off in one second, while the EOBD
warning light turns off after about four
seconds, after the ECU has completed its
diagnostic cycle. The protection system has
recognised the key code and deactivates the
engine immobilizer. Press the START button
and at the same time depress the brake
pedal to start the engine.
2) If the CODE warning light remains on
and the EOBD warning light goes off
after four seconds (ECU diagnostics) and
illuminates again immediately afterwards,
the code has not been recognised and the
message “Electronic key not recognised”
is displayed. In this case, it is advisable to
turn the key back to position STOP and
then back to MAR; if the immobilizer stays
on, try with the other keys.

33
2
A
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
VDC SYSTEMThe vehicle is equipped with the anti-yawing
control system VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control)
which incorporates all the control systems: ABS,
EBD, ASR and MSR. This system is equipped
with a model that predicts the vehicle behaviour
with great accuracy. The system is capable of
detecting whether the driver is about to lose
control of the vehicle. In this case, it can activate
the brake calipers individually and engine
control, in order to create a torque sufficient to
resist the vehicle yawing moment.ACTIVATION
The VDC and ASR systems are integrated in one
single function and are automatically activated
every time the engine is started; they can be
deactivated by pressing the button
A for about
1 second. Press the button
A again to reactivate
the systems.
The amber colour warning light
on the
instrument panel flashes during all the operating
phases.FAILURE SIGNALS
In the event of a malfunction, the system
is automatically disabled and cannot be
reactivated. This condition is signalled while
driving by the amber warning light on the
instrument panel that illuminates together with
the message “VDC failure - Go to workshop”.
When the engine is started, the system
malfunction is indicated by the illumination of
the warning light .
WARNING: In the event of a malfunction
and with the VDC deactivated, the vehicle
behaves as if it were not equipped with this
system: however, we recommend that you
contact an Authorised Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network to have the system
checked.

34
2
WARNING: If you have to tow the vehicle with
2 wheels raised, ensure that the ignition key
is in the STOP position. Otherwise, with VDC
activated, the relative control unit will store a
malfunction, resulting in the illumination of the
warning lights
on the instrument panel and
on the display: this requires the intervention
of an Authorised Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network to correct the system
malfunction.
WARNING: In low- and medium-grip conditions
(e.g., rain, snow, ice, sand, etc.) it is advisable
not to use SPORT mode, even with the VDC
activated.
WARNING: Driving on parabolic curves will
deactivate the system.
ASR SYSTEM (ELECTRONIC ANTI-
SKID DEVICE)The ASR system avoids driving wheels skidding
during acceleration through the engine control
unit (spark advance delay, engine throttle
opening reduction and fuel injection cut) and the
rear brakes.
The action of the ASR system enhances vehicle
stability and improves active safety while driving,
specially under the following conditions:
inside wheel skidding when cornering due
to dynamic load variations or excessive
acceleration
excessive power transmitted to the
wheels, also in relation to the road surface
conditions acceleration on slippery, snow-covered or icy
roads
grip loss on wet road surface
(aquaplaning).
In normal conditions (SPORT mode off), the ASR
system increases stability in low and medium
grip conditions, while with SPORT mode active
the system favours traction, thereby optimising
vehicle performance on dry asphalt.

35
2
A
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
ACTIVATION
The VDC and ASR systems are integrated in one
single function and are automatically activated
every time the engine is started; they can be
deactivated by pressing the button
A for about
1 second.
Press the button
A once again to reactivate the
systems.
The amber colour warning light
on the
instrument panel flashes during all the operating
phases.FAULT INDICATORS
In the event of a malfunction, the system
is automatically disabled and cannot be
reactivated. This condition is signalled while
driving by the amber symbol
on the display
that illuminates together with the message “ASR
failure - Go to workshop”.
MSR FUNCTION (ENGINE
BRAKING TORQUE
ADJUSTMENT)
The ASR system also controls the engine braking
torque when the accelerator pedal is released
under low grip conditions (e.g., snow, ice etc.):
in these conditions, the high braking torque of
the engine may cause instability of the vehicle.The system, using the same sensors as the ABS
system, detects the skidding of one or both
of the driving wheels when the accelerator is
released and opens the motor-driven throttle for
the engine fuel system. This reduces the braking
torque and resets the maximum grip conditions
for the driving wheels.
WARNING: However, the maximum deceleration
that can be obtained with the engine brake still
depends on the tyre grip on the road. Snow or ice
obviously reduce grip values.

36
2
ABS AND EBD
SYSTEMSThe vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock
Brake System) and EBD (Electronic Brake force
Distribution) system which enhances braking
power through the ABS system sensors and
control unit.
In the event of an emergency stop or braking on
slippery surfaces (e.g., snow, ice etc.) the ABS,
together with the standard braking system, is
designed to allow the driver to apply maximum
braking force without causing the wheels to lock
and consequently losing control of the vehicle.
The system is based on an electronic control unit
that processes the signals coming from 4 sensors
fitted on the 4 wheels.
When a wheel tends to lock, the sensor warns
the control unit, which informs the electro-
hydraulic unit so that it controls the pressure
exerted on the brake calipers; the driver feels a
“pulsating” sensation on the brake pedal which
is completely normal.
In the event of a failure, the system will be
deactivated, but this will not affect the efficiency of the standard braking system.
The failure is signalled by the amber warning
light
on the instrument panel and the
display which illuminates together with the
message “ABS failure - Go to workshop”.
In this case, we recommend that you contact the
nearest Service Centre of the Manufacturer’s
Network in order to identify the fault as soon as
possible, by means of the system self-diagnostic
function.CAUTION
The vehicles must be equipped
only with wheels, tyres and brake
pads of the type and make approved
by the Manufacturer for this model.CAUTION
Regardless of the fact that
this device makes a considerable
contribution to safety it is still
essential to drive with the greatest
care when the road surface is wet,
covered with snow or ice.
CAUTION
The vehicle is equipped with
Electronic Brake force Distribution
(EBD). The warning light

illuminates when the engine is running
to indicate an EBD system malfunction.
In this case, sharp braking can cause
early locking of the rear wheels
and possible side skidding. Driving
extremely carefully, immediately go
to the nearest Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network to have the
system checked.

37
2
ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY
CAUTION
The warning light
usually
comes on with running engine to
indicate a fault in the ABS system only.
In this case, the standard braking
system is still efficient, but cannot use
the ABS system. In these conditions,
also the EBD system efficiency may be
reduced. Drive with the greatest care
to avoid abrupt braking and go the
nearest Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network to have the
system checked-
CAUTION
If the low brake fluid warning
light
illuminates while driving,
stop the vehicle and check the brake
fluid level immediately. If the level is
below the minimum notch, top up with
the recommended oil and immediately
contact an Authorised Service Centre
of the Manufacturer’s Network to
have the system checked.
Brake fluid leaks impair the operation
of the braking systems, both of the
traditional type and of those equipped
with ABS.
CAUTION
System performance in terms
of active safety is not a reason for the
driver to run unnecessary risks. The
driving style shall always be suited to
weather conditions, range of visibility
and traffic.CAUTION
The maximum obtainable
deceleration always depends on the
tyre grip on the road surface. With
snow or ice the grip is obviously
reduced and the braking distance is
very high, even with the ABS system.

43
3
A
B
C
D
E
INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
1) Air conditioning side vents2) Lower gearshift paddle “DOWN”3) Instrument panel4) Air conditioning upper vent5)
Sun radiation sensor
6)
Driver’s airbag
7)
Windscreen/headlight wiper/washer
control lever
8)
Upper gearshift paddle UP
9)
Central air conditioning/heating vents
10)
Radio/navigator
11)
Passenger’s airbag
12)
Air conditioning and heating system
controls
13)
Side windows vents
14)
Glove compartment
15)
Central dashboard controls
16)
Electric parking brake engagement/
disengagement lever
17)
Starter/steering wheel lock switch
18)
Horn control
19)
Steering wheel height and depth
adjustment lever
20)
Cruise Control lever, direction indicators
21)
Controls to the left of the steering wheel
22)
Engine start button
23)
Reverse gear engagement button
24)
AUTO mode button
25)
SPORT mode button
26)
VDC deactivation button
27)
WET mode button
28)
Hazard light buttonRef. 15 Central dashboard controls
A) Front left-hand power window controlB) Central locking control C) PARK OFF function button (see page.
137)D) Rear window opening control E) Front right-hand power window control

62
3
Low brake fluid warning light (*)
It illuminates when the brake fluid
level goes below the minimum
level. The operation of the warning light can be
checked by pressing the button on the brake fluid
tank cover located in the engine compartment. If
accompanied by a specific message, it indicates
an EBD system failure. In this case, do not
apply the brakes suddenly, since this may cause
an early locking of the rear wheels. Driving
extremely carefully, immediately go to the
nearest Service Centre of the Manufacturer’s
Network to have the system checked.
CAUTION
If the warning light illuminates
while driving check the brake fluid
level immediately. If fluid level is
below the minimum level, there may
be a leakage. In this case, contact
an Authorised Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network before
continuing on your journey.
Defective ABS system (*)
It illuminates when the ABS system
is not functioning. The standard
braking system remains active, but we advise
you to contact an Authorised Service Centre
of the Manufacturer’s Network as soon as
possible.
Seat belts
It illuminates when one or both
front seat belts are not fastened
or improperly fastened. For the passenger seat
belt, the warning light will illuminate only if a
passenger is seated on the seat.
When the warning light is on, an acoustic signal
is also activated as soon as the vehicle speed
exceeds 20 Km/h.
Airbag/pretensioner failure (*)
It indicates that the pretensioner
and/or airbag system is defective.
CAUTION
Turning the key to MAR the
warning light illuminates but it should
turn off after a few seconds with the
engine running.
CAUTION
If, upon ignition, the warning
light does not illuminate or illuminates
permanently, or if it illuminates while
driving, immediately stop and contact
an Authorised Service Centre of the
Manufacturer’s Network.
Parking brake engaged
The warning light illuminates when
the parking brake is engaged.
VDC system failure
It indicates a malfunction or the
deactivation of the VDC system.
When flashing, it indicates that the VDC or ASR
system have activated.

65
3
INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
Parking brake failure
Depending on the message
displayed, it signals the following
failures of the EPB system:
- Parking brake failure
- If the message that warns you to go to
the nearest Authorised Service Centre of
the Manufacturer’s Network is displayed,
drive slowly and remember that the electric
parking brake device is not functioning.
- Excessive temperature.
If the vehicle has been stationary (key to
STOP) for about 15 minutes without using
the parking brake, and the warning light
comes on again after restarting the engine,
slowly drive to the nearest Authorised
Service Centre of the Manufacturer’s
Network.
If the brake failure is accompanied by the
message “Mechanical release only”, the
manual emergency deactivation procedure
must be performed to release the parking
brake (see page 137).
- Parking brake system overhaul
The EPB system requires maintenance,
therefore contact an Authorised Service Centre of the Manufacturer’s Network to
have the system corrected.
ASR system failure
It indicates the deactivation or
failure of the ASR system.
In the event of a failure contact an Authorised
Service Centre of the Manufacturer’s
Network.
Rain sensor failure
It indicates that the rain sensor is
faulty.
Generic gearbox indication
It indicates gearbox information and
malfunctions.
The severity of the malfunctions is specified in
the accompanying message.Doors open
It indicates that the doors are
open or not properly closed. The
accompanying message indicates the door that
is not closed.
WARNING: Before setting off, close the open or
not properly closed doors.
Engine compartment lid open
It indicates that the engine
compartment lid is open or not
properly closed.
Rear window open
It indicates that the rear window is
open or not properly closed.
Ice hazard
It illuminates when the outside
temperature is 3° C or lower, in
order to indicate the risk of icy road surfaces. In
these conditions, drive carefully and slow down
as the grip of the tyres will be strongly reduced.
Do not activate “SPORT” mode in this situation.