check engine Alfa Romeo Giulia 2018 Owner's Guide

Engine Oil
The engine oil level can be seen on the
instrument cluster display every time the
engine is started, or on the Information and
Entertainment system display by
activating on the main menu (MENU
button) the following functions in
sequence: “Apps”; “My Car” and “Oil Level”.
Check on the display using the 6 notches
that the oil level is between the MIN and
MAX level: 1 notch MIN level, 6 notches
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
8.8floz(250ml).
The oil level can also be checked manually.
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.
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.
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 this could
cause oil to leak from engine.
Manual oil level checking procedure
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
If a engine oil top-off is needed, in order
to ensure the correct indication of the oil
level on the display, leave the vehicle on
flat ground with the engine running for
approximately 5 minutes (temperature
higher than 176°F (80°C)) and shut the
engine off then proceed with the process
below:
Wait for five minutes, turn the ignition
to the ON mode without starting the
engine and wait for a few seconds.
Note: If you have added the specified
amount of oil and the indicator is not
reading “Full”, please contact you
authorized dealer.
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
aluminium cap (if equipped). WARNING: risk
of burns!
Caution!
The oil level must never exceed the MAX
mark.
If the MAX mark is exceeded MAX (last
notch on the right turns red) after the fill-up,
go to your 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 your authorized
dealer.
Engine Coolant Fluid
If the level is too low, unscrew the cap of
reservoir and add the fluid described in
the "Technical Specifications" chapter.
199

Washer Fluid For Windshield/
Headlights
The windshield and headlights washer
fluid reservoir has a telescopic filler.
If the level is too low, remove reservoir
cap and lift the filler. Then, add the fluid
described in the "Technical
Specifications" chapter.
Note:The headlight washing system will
not work if the liquid level is low (as
indicated by the symbol on the
instrument cluster display). The
windshield washer will keep working.
On vehicles equipped with headlight
washers, if equipped, 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 your authorized dealer to have
the system checked.
Automatic Transmission Activation
System Oil
The transmission control oil level should
only be checked at your 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 car, ensure that the
doors and trunk 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 car that
require permanent electrical supply (e.g.
alarm, etc.), or accessories which
influence the electrical supply
requirements, contact your authorized
dealer, whose qualified staff will evaluate
the overall electrical consumption.
Caution!
If the charge level remains under 50% for a
long time, the battery may be damaged by
sulphation, reducing its capacity and
efficiency at start the vehicle. The battery is
also more prone to the risk of freezing (at
temperatures as high as 14°F (-10°C).
Note: After the battery is disconnected,
the steering must be initialized. The
warning light on the instrument panel
switches on to indicate 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.
Replacing The Battery
If necessary, replace the battery with
another original battery with the same
specifications. Follow the battery
manufacturer’s instructions for
maintenance.
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. Refer to “Jump
Starting” in “In Case Of Emergency” for
further information.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

The vehicle is equipped with an IBS
(Intelligent Battery Sensor), which is able
to measure the charge and discharge
voltage and 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
instructions on 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.DEALER SERVICE
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 replacement 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 (see "Engine Compartment" in this
chapter).
Check the oil level at regular intervals, for
example every 1864 miles (3000 km).
It must be checked once full operating
temperature is 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:
“Applications”; “My Car”; “Oil level”.
Changing The Engine Oil
See the "Maintenance Plan" for the
correct servicing intervals. Choice Of Engine Oil Type
To ensure optimal performance and
maximum protection in all operating
conditions, it is advisable to use solely
certified engine oils (see description in
"Fluid And Lubricants" in the "Technical
Specifications" chapter).
Additives For Engine Oil
It is strongly recommended not to use
additives (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 additives.
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:
Used engine oil disposed of
incorrectly may seriously 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, specifically designed for this
vehicle.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Air Filter
Replacing The Air Cleaner
See the "Maintenance Plan" for the
correct servicing intervals. It is advised to
replace it 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.
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.
Replace The Cabin Air Filter
See the "Maintenance Plan" for the
correct servicing intervals. For cleaner
replacement, contact an authorized
dealer.
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.
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), trunk and hood are periodically
lubricated with lithium-based grease to
ensure correct, silent operation and to
protect them from rust and wear.
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. During operations on
the hood, to be carried out with the
engine cold, also 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 your authorized
dealer as soon as possible.
Windshield Wiper
Periodically clean the windshield and 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 deterioration of the blades, in
addition to abrasion of the surface of the
glass. To eliminate the impurities on the
dry glass, always operate the windshield
washers.
In the event of very low outdoor
temperatures, below zero degrees,
ensure that the movement 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.
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Warning!
Driving with worn windshield wiper blades is
a serious hazard, because visibility is
reduced in bad weather conditions.
Note:The life of the windshield wiper
blades varies according to the usage
frequency. In any case, 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 necessary, replace them.
Raising The Windshield Wiper Blades
("Service Position" Function)
The "service position" function allows the
driver to replace the windshield wiper
blades more 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, when washing.
Activation Of The Function
To activate this function, disable the
windshield wiper before setting the
ignition device to STOP.
This function can only be activated within
two minutes of cycling the ignition to
STOP. To activate this function, move the lever
upward for at least three seconds.
Function Deactivation
The function is deactivated if:
More than two minutes passes before
cycling the ignition to the STOP position
after having raised the lever and putting
the wipers into service position.
The ignition is cycled to the ON
position and the windshield wiper control
is used.
If, after using the function, the ignition is
set back to ON with the blades in a
position other than rest position (at the
base of the windshield), 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, press tab of the
attachment spring and remove the blade
from the arm.
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.
Windshield Washer
The window washer nozzles are fixed.
If there is no jet of fluid, first check that
there is fluid in the reservoir (see
paragraph “Engine Compartment” in this
chapter).
09046S0001EMWindshield Wiper Stalk
09046S0002EMWiper Release Tab
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

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
compartment 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 your 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 compartment.
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, however, and prevent it from
getting damaged, it is extremely
important that the engine operates
perfectly.
To minimize the risk of damaging the
catalytic converter, proceed as follows:
Do not stop the engine or deactivate
the ignition with gear engaged and
vehicle in motion.
Do not attempt to start the engine by
bump starting.
Do not persist in using the vehicle if
idling is very irregular or the operating
conditions are very notably irregular.
Warning!
Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They
contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is
colorless and odorless. Breathing it can
make you unconscious and can eventually
poison you.
A hot exhaust system can start a fire if
you park over materials that can burn. Such
materials might be grass or leaves coming
into contact with your exhaust system.
Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas
where your exhaust system can contact
anything that can burn.
Cooling System
Warning!
You or others can be badly burned by hot
engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from
your radiator. If you see or hear steam
coming from under the hood, do not open the
hood until the radiator has had time to cool.
Never open a cooling system pressure cap
when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry
away from the radiator cooling fan when the
hood is raised. The fan starts automatically
and may start at any time, whether the
engine is running or not.
When working near the radiator cooling
fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn
the ignition to the OFF mode. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time the ignition is in the ON mode.
09046S0003EMWindshield Washers
1 — Washer Nozzles
205

Coolant Check
Your vehicle has two cooling systems and
they both need to be checked to ensure
they are at proper fill levels. Refer to the
“Engine Compartment” section for the
locations.
Check the engine coolant and intercooler
coolant level every oil change or before
long trips.
If there are impurities in the engine
coolant, the system must be drained,
flushed and refilled: contact an
authorized dealer.
Check the front part of the condenser to
check for any build-up of insects, leaves
or other debris. Should it be dirty, clean it
by spraying delicately with water.
Check the hoses of the engine/
intercooler cooling system to ensure that
the rubber has not deteriorated and that
there are no cracks, tears, cuts or
obstructions in the expansion tank side
and radiator side connectors. Should
there be any doubt regarding leaks from
the system (e.g. if frequent top ups are
required), have the seal checked at an
authorized dealer.
With the engine off and at normal
operating temperature, check that the
cooling system radiator cap is closed
properly.
Warning!
Do not open hot engine cooling system.
Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when
the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or
remove the cap to cool an overheated
engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in
the cooling system. To prevent scalding or
injury, do not remove the pressure cap while
the system is hot or under pressure.
Do not use a pressure cap other than the
one specified for your vehicle. Personal
injury or engine damage may result.
Note: Before removing the coolant
reservoir cap, wait for the system to cool
down.
Topping Up / Draining / Flushing The
Engine/Intercooler Coolant
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty,
have cleaning and flushing carried out at
an authorized dealer.
See the "Maintenance Plan" for the
correct servicing intervals.
Note:
For topping up, use a fluid with the
same characteristics as those indicated
in the "Fluids And Lubricants" table (see
"Technical Specifications" chapter).
Do not use pure water, alcohol-based
coolants, corrosions inhibitors or
additional anti-rust products because they may be incompatible with the
engine coolant and cause the clogging of
the radiator. The use of propylene
glycol-based coolant is also not
recommended.
Engine Cooling/Intercooler System Cap
To prevent loss of engine coolant, make
sure that the expansion tank cap is
closed. If it is open, screw it completely
until you reach/hear the click.
Periodically check the cap and clean it
from any foreign bodies that may have
deposited on the external surface.
Warning!
Never add coolant with the engine hot or
overheated.
Do not attempt to cool an overheated
engine by loosening or removing the cap.
The heat causes a considerable increase in
pressure in the cooling system.
To prevent damage to the engine, only use
the engine cooling circuit caps provided.
Disposal Of Used Coolant
Disposal of engine/intercooler coolant is
subject to legal requirements: contact
the appropriate body to determine local
regulations.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

Note:
To prevent the fluid from being
ingested by children or animals, do not
keep it in open containers or pour it on
the ground. If ingested, contact a doctor
immediately. Eliminate any traces of
fluid from the ground immediately.
When the vehicle stops after a short
trip, steam may be seen coming out from
front of the hood. This is a normal
phenomenon which is due to the
presence of rain, snow or a lot of
moisture on the surface of the radiator.
With engine and system cold, do not
top up with coolant beyond the
maximum level indicated on the
reservoir in the engine compartment.
Braking System
In order to guarantee the efficiency of
the braking system, periodically check its
components; for this operation, contact
an authorized dealer.
See the "Maintenance Plan" for the
correct servicing intervals.
Note: Driving with your foot resting on
the brake pedal may compromise its
efficiency, increasing the risk of
accidents. When driving, never keep your
foot on the brake pedal and don’t put
unnecessary strain on it to prevent the brakes from overheating: excess pad
wear may cause damage to the braking
system.
When an insufficient oil level is
detected, contact an authorized dealer
to have the system checked.
Always keep the cap of the brake
fluid reservoir (in the engine
compartment) completely closed.
Warning!
Use only manufacturer's recommended
brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants”
in “Technical Specifications” for further
information. Using the wrong type of brake
fluid can severely damage your brake
system and/or impair its performance. The
proper type of brake fluid for your vehicle is
also identified on the original factory
installed hydraulic master cylinder
reservoir.
To avoid contamination from foreign
matter or moisture, use only new brake fluid
or fluid that has been in a tightly closed
container. Keep the master cylinder
reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake
fluid in a open container absorbs moisture
from the air resulting in a lower boiling point.
This may cause it to boil unexpectedly
during hard or prolonged braking, resulting
in sudden brake failure. This could result in a
collision.
Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can
result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine
parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire.
Brake fluid can also damage painted and
vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to avoid
its contact with these surfaces.
Do not allow petroleum based fluid to
contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal
components could be damaged, causing
partial or complete brake failure. This could
result in a collision.
Automatic Transmission
Use only a transmission oil with the same
characteristics as those indicated in the
"Fluids and Lubricants" table (see
"Technical Specifications" chapter).
Special Additives
Do not use any type of additive with the
automatic transmission oil. The
automatic transmission oil is a product
designed specially for this vehicle and its
performance may be compromised
through the use of further additives.
Caution!
Do not use chemical flushes in your
transmission as the chemicals can damage
your transmission components. Such
damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
207

equipment or an authorized tire dealer
for recommended safe operating speeds,
loading and cold tire inflation pressures.
While studded tires improve
performance on ice, skid and traction
capability on wet or dry surfaces may be
poorer than that of non-studded tires.
Some states prohibit studded tires;
therefore, local laws should be checked
before using these tire types.
Tire Chains (Traction Devices)
Use of traction devices require sufficient
tire-to-body clearance. Follow these
recommendations to guard against
damage.
Note:
Traction device must be of proper
size for the tire, as recommended by the
traction device manufacturer
Use on Rear Tires Only
Due to limited clearance, the
following traction devices are
recommended:
For a 265/35R19 98V tire, use of a
zero-clearance snow traction device
recommended.
It is not possible to install traction
devices on 285/30R19 tires.
Caution!
To avoid damage to your vehicle or tires,
observe the following precautions:
Because of restricted traction device
clearance between tires and other
suspension components, it is important that
only traction devices in good condition are
used. Broken devices can cause serious
damage. Stop the vehicle immediately if
noise occurs that could indicate device
breakage. Remove the damaged parts of
the device before further use.
Install device as tightly as possible and
then retighten after driving about ½ mile
(0.8 km).
Do not exceed 30 mph (48 km/h).
Drive cautiously and avoid severe turns
and large bumps, especially with a loaded
vehicle.
Do not drive for a prolonged period on dry
pavement.
Observe the traction device
manufacturer’s instructions on the method
of installation, operating speed, and
conditions for use. Always use the
suggested operating speed of the device
manufacturer’s if it is less than 30 mph
(48 km/h).
Do not use traction devices on a compact
spare tire.
Tire Rotation Recommendations
Tire Rotations - Do Not Rotate Tires
Due to different size tires and wheels on
front and rear axles tire rotation is not
possible for:
2.9 L V6 Engine Equipped with 19”
tires and wheels
Caution!
Damage to the vehicle may occur if 19” front
and rear tires are rotated
In the case of irregular wear of the tires
identify the cause and correct it as soon
as possible, by contacting an authorized
dealer.
223

STORING THE VEHICLE
If the vehicle is left inactive for longer
than a month, the following precautions
should be observed:
Park the vehicle in an area that is
covered and dry, and well-ventilated if
possible. Slightly open the windows.
Check that the electric park brake is
not activated.
Carry out the procedure: “manual trunk
opening device” procedure described in
this paragraph.
Disconnect the negative battery
terminal and check the battery charge.
Repeat this check once every three
months during storage.
If the battery is not disconnected from
the electrical system, check its state of
charge every thirty days.
Clean and protect the painted parts
using protective wax.
Clean and protect the shiny metal
parts using special compounds available
commercially.
Sprinkle talcum powder on the
windshield wiper rubber blades, and lift
them off the glass.
Cover the vehicle with a fabric or
perforated plastic sheet, paying
particular care not to damage the painted
surface by dragging any dust that may
have accumulated on it. Do not use
compact plastic sheets, as they do not
allow humidity to evaporate from the
surface of the vehicle .
Inflate tires to +7.25 psi (+0.5 bar)
above the standard prescribed pressure
and check it periodically.
Do not drain the engine cooling
system.
Any time the vehicle is left inactive for
two weeks or more, operate the air
conditioning system with engine idling
for at least five minutes, setting external
air and with fan set to maximum speed.
This operation will ensure appropriate
lubrication for the system, thus
minimizing the possibility of damage to
the compressor when the system is
operated again.
Note: After cycling the ignition to STOP
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 STOP
position and the driver side door is
closed. Manual Trunk Opening Device
Proceed as follows if the battery needs
to be disconnected:
1. From the trunk interior covering,
rotate the plug counterclockwise of the
lock and extract the cord connected to it.
09086S0001EMTrunk Compartment
0318134892USTrunk Manual Release Cord
225