service ALFA ROMEO GIULIA 2021 Service Manual

SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

244

Radial Ply Tires
Tire Repair
If your tire becomes damaged, it may be
repaired if it meets the following criteria:
The tire has not been driven on when flat.
The damage is only on the tread section of
your tire (sidewall damage is not repair-
able).
The puncture is no greater than a ¼ of an
inch (6 mm).
Consult an authorized tire dealer for tire
repairs and additional information.
Damaged Run Flat tires, or Run Flat tires that
have experienced a loss of pressure should be
replaced immediately with another Run Flat
tire of identical size and service description
(Load Index and Speed Symbol). Replace the
tire pressure sensor as well as it is not
designed to be reused.
Run Flat Tires — If Equipped
Run Flat tires allow you the capability to drive
50 miles (80 km) at 50 mph (80 km/h) after a
rapid loss of inflation pressure. This rapid loss
of inflation is referred to as the Run Flat mode.
A Run Flat mode occurs when the tire inflation
pressure is of/or below 14 psi (96 kPa). Once
a Run Flat tire reaches the Run Flat mode it
has limited driving capabilities and needs to
be replaced immediately. A Run Flat tire is not
repairable. When a Run Flat tire is changed
after driving with underinflated tire condition,
please replace the TPM sensor as it is not
designed to be reused when driven under Run
Flat mode 14 psi (96 kPa) condition.

NOTE:

TPM Sensor must be replaced after driving the
vehicle on a flat tire condition.
It is not recommended driving a vehicle loaded
at full capacity or to tow a trailer while a tire is
in the Run Flat mode.
See the tire pressure monitoring section for
more information
Ú
page 156.
Tire Spinning
When stuck in mud, sand, snow, or ice condi -
tions, do not spin your vehicle's wheels above
30 mph (48 km/h) or for longer than 30
seconds continuously without stopping.
Tread Wear Indicators
Tread wear indicators are in the original equip -
ment tires to help you in determining when
your tires should be replaced.
Tire Tread
WARNING!
Combining radial ply tires with other types
of tires on your vehicle will cause your
vehicle to handle poorly. The instability
could cause a collision. Always use radial
ply tires in sets of four. Never combine them
with other types of tires.
WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous.
Forces generated by excessive wheel
speeds may cause tire damage or failure. A
tire could explode and injure someone. Do
not spin your vehicle's wheels faster than
30 mph (48 km/h) for more than 30
seconds continuously when you are stuck,
and do not let anyone near a spinning
wheel, no matter what the speed.
1 — Worn Tire
2 — New Tire
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245

(Continued)
These indicators are molded into the bottom
of the tread grooves. They will appear as
bands when the tread depth becomes a 1/16
of an inch (1.6 mm). When the tread is worn to
the tread wear indicators, the tire should be
replaced.
For further information
Ú
page 245.
Life Of Tire
The service life of a tire is dependent upon
varying factors including, but not limited to:
Driving style.
Tire pressure - Improper cold tire inflation
pressures can cause uneven wear patterns
to develop across the tire tread. These
abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread
life, resulting in the need for earlier tire
replacement.
Distance driven.
Performance tires, tires with a speed rating
of V or higher, and Summer tires typically
have a reduced tread life. Rotation of these
tires per the vehicle scheduled mainte -
nance is highly recommended.
NOTE:

Wheel valve stem must be replaced as well
when installing new tires due to wear and tear
in existing tires.
Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with
as little exposure to light as possible. Protect
tires from contact with oil, grease, and gaso
-
line.
Replacement Tires
The tires on your new vehicle provide a
balance of many characteristics. They should
be inspected regularly for wear and correct
cold tire inflation pressures. FCA US LLC
strongly recommends that you use tires equiv -
alent to the originals in size, quality and perfor -
mance when replacement is needed

Ú
page 244. Refer to the Tire and Loading
Information placard or the Vehicle Certifica -
tion Label for the size designation of your tire.
The Load Index and Speed Symbol for your tire
will be found on the original equipment tire
sidewall. For more information relating to the Load
Index and Speed Symbol of a tire

Ú
page 234.
It is recommended to replace the two front
tires or two rear tires as a pair. Replacing just
one tire can seriously affect your vehicle’s
handling. If you ever replace a wheel, make
sure that the wheel’s specifications match
those of the original wheels.
It is recommended you contact an authorized
tire dealer or original equipment dealer with
any questions you may have on tire specifica -
tions or capability. Failure to use equivalent
replacement tires may adversely affect the
safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle.
WARNING!
Tires and the spare tire should be replaced
after six years, regardless of the remaining
tread. Failure to follow this warning can
result in sudden tire failure. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death.
WARNING!
Do not use a tire, wheel size, load rating,
or speed rating other than that specified
for your vehicle. Some combinations of
unapproved tires and wheels may change
suspension dimensions and performance
characteristics, resulting in changes to
steering, handling, and braking of your
vehicle. This can cause unpredictable
handling and stress to steering and
suspension components. You could lose
control and have a collision resulting in
serious injury or death. Use only the tire
and wheel sizes with load ratings
approved for your vehicle.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

246

Spare Tires — If Equipped

NOTE:

For vehicles equipped with Tire Service Kit
instead of a spare tire, please refer to “Tire
Service Kit” in “In Case Of Emergency” for
further information.
Spare Tire Matching Original Equipped Tire
And Wheel — If Equipped
Your vehicle may be equipped with a spare tire
and wheel equivalent in look and function to
the original equipment tire and wheel found on
the front or rear axle of your vehicle. This spare
tire may be used in the tire rotation for your
vehicle. If your vehicle has this option, refer to
an authorized tire dealer for the recom-
mended tire rotation pattern.
Full Size Spare — If Equipped
The full size spare is for temporary emergency
use only. This tire may look like the originally
equipped tire on the front or rear axle of your
vehicle, but it is not. This spare tire may have
limited tread life. When the tread is worn to the
tread wear indicators, the temporary use full
size spare tire needs to be replaced. Since it is
not the same as your original equipment tire,
replace (or repair) the original equipment tire
and reinstall on the vehicle at the first oppor -
tunity.
Limited Use Spare — If Equipped
The limited use spare tire is for temporary
emergency use only. This tire is identified by a
label located on the limited use spare wheel.
This label contains the driving limitations for
this spare. This tire may look like the original
equipped tire on the front or rear axle of your
vehicle, but it is not. Installation of this limited
use spare tire affects vehicle handling. Since it
is not the same as your original equipment tire, replace (or repair) the original equipment
tire and reinstall on the vehicle at the first
opportunity.
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care
All wheels and wheel trim, especially
aluminum and chrome plated wheels, should
be cleaned regularly using mild (neutral Ph)
soap and water to maintain their luster and to
prevent corrosion. Wash wheels with the same
soap solution recommended for the body of
the vehicle and remember to always wash
when the surfaces are not hot to the touch.
Your wheels are susceptible to deterioration
caused by salt, sodium chloride, magnesium
chloride, calcium chloride, etc., and other road
chemicals used to melt ice or control dust on
dirt roads. Use a soft cloth or sponge and mild
Never use a tire with a smaller load index
or capacity, other than what was originally
equipped on your vehicle. Using a tire with
a smaller load index could result in tire
overloading and failure. You could lose
control and have a collision.
Failure to equip your vehicle with tires
having adequate speed capability can
result in sudden tire failure and loss of
vehicle control.
CAUTION!
Replacing original tires with tires of a
different size may result in false
speedometer and odometer readings.
CAUTION!
Because of the reduced ground clearance,
do not take your vehicle through an
automatic car wash with a compact or
limited use temporary spare installed.
Damage to the vehicle may result.
WARNING! (Continued)
WARNING!
Limited use spares are for emergency use
only. Installation of this limited use spare
tire affects vehicle handling. With this tire,
do not drive more than the speed listed on
the limited use spare wheel. Keep inflated
to the cold tire inflation pressures listed on
your Tire and Loading Information Placard
located on the driver’s side B-Pillar or the
rear edge of the driver’s side door. Replace
(or repair) the original equipment tire at the
first opportunity and reinstall it on your
vehicle. Failure to do so could result in loss
of vehicle control.
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249

Tire Rotation Recommendations
Tires on the front and rear axles of vehicles
operate at different loads and perform
different steering, driving, and braking func-
tions. For these reasons, they wear at unequal
rates. These effects can be reduced by timely
rotation of tires. Rotation will increase tread
life, maintain traction levels and contribute to
a smooth, quiet ride.
To resolve this problem, tires should be
rotated at each service interval (approximately
every 10,000 miles [16,000km]). More
frequent rotation is permissible if desired. The
reasons for any rapid or unusual wear should
be corrected prior to rotation being performed.
Tire Rotations Not Recommended — If
Equipped
Due to different size tires and wheels on front
and rear axles tire rotation is not possible for:
2.0T GME Engine Equipped with a 225/
40R19 front and 255/35R19 rear tires
2.9L V6 Engine Equipped with 19” tires and
wheels
Tire rotation contributes to the preservation of
the grip and traction performance on wet,
muddy or snowy roads, guaranteeing optimal
driveability of the vehicle.
In the case of irregular wear of the tires iden -
tify the cause and correct it as soon as
possible, by contacting an authorized dealer.
Tire Rotation for Directional Tires — If
Equipped
Directional tires are equipped on the following:
2.0T GME Engine equipped with same size
tires and wheels on front and rear axles
The rotational direction of the tire must be
taken into consideration when rotating the
tires. The recommended rotation pattern for
directional tires is shown below. Tire Rotation
All Wheel Drive (AWD) Models
It is recommended to avoid situations with a
large difference in wear between the front and
rear tires and to strictly use Winter tires of the
sizes given on the tire placard.
The AWD system and the original tires are
developed together to ensure the vehicle’s
best performance. When changing the tires, it
is recommended to us the same “AR” marked
tires, to maintain the same level of perfor -
mance and component life.
CAUTION!
Damage to the vehicle may occur if 225/
40R19 front and 255/35R19 rear tires are
rotated
CAUTION!
Damage to the vehicle may occur if 19”
front and rear tires are rotated
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

250

DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM
TIRE QUALITY GRADES
The following tire grading categories
were established by the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The specific grade rating assigned by
the tire's manufacturer in each cate-
gory is shown on the sidewall of the
tires on your vehicle.
All passenger vehicle tires must
conform to Federal safety require -
ments in addition to these grades.
Treadwear
The Treadwear grade is a comparative
rating, based on the wear rate of the
tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government
test course. For example, a tire graded
150 would wear one and one-half times
as well on the government course as a
tire graded 100. The relative perfor -
mance of tires depends upon the
actual conditions of their use, however,
and may depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in driving habits,
service practices, and differences in
road characteristics and climate.
Traction Grades
The Traction grades, from highest to
lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. These
grades represent the tire's ability to
stop on wet pavement, as measured
under controlled conditions on speci -
fied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
Temperature Grades
The temperature grades are A (the
highest), B, and C, representing the
tire's resistance to the generation of
heat and its ability to dissipate heat,
when tested under controlled condi -
tions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature
can cause the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C corre -
sponds to a level of performance, which all passenger vehicle tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B and A
represent higher levels of performance
on the laboratory test wheel, than the
minimum required by law.
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.
WARNING!
The traction grade assigned to this tire is
based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
WARNING!

The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly inflated
and not overloaded. Excessive speed,
under-inflation, or excessive loading, either
separately or in combination, can cause
heat buildup and possible tire failure.

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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

252

2. Make sure the free end of the cordremains outside the trunk when closing
the trunk lid.
Manual Release Cord Shown With Trunk Closed
3. The trunk can now be opened manually by pulling the cord.
4. After releasing the trunk, rewind the strap around the plug, put it back into its
housing and turn it clockwise.BODYWORK
Protection Against Atmospheric Agents
The vehicle is equipped with the best available
technological solutions to protect the body -
work against corrosion.
These include:
Painting products and systems which give
the vehicle resistance to corrosion and
abrasion.
Use of galvanized (or pre-treated) steel
sheets, with high resistance to corrosion.
Spraying of plastic parts, with a protective
function in the more exposed points: under
door, inner wing, edges, etc.
Use of “open” boxed sections to prevent
condensation and pockets of moisture
which could favor the formation of rust
inside.
Use of special films to protect against abra -
sion in exposed areas (e.g. rear wing, doors,
etc.).
Corrosion Warranty
Your vehicle is covered by Corrosion Warranty
against perforation due to rust of any original
element of the structure or bodywork. For the
general terms of this warranty, refer to the
Warranty Booklet.
Preserving The Bodywork
Paint
Touch up abrasions and scratches immedi -
ately to prevent the formation of rust.
Maintenance of paintwork consists of washing
the car: the frequency depends on the condi -
tions and environment where the car is used.
For example, it is advisable to wash the vehicle
more often in areas with high levels of atmo -
spheric pollution or salted roads.
Some parts of the vehicle may be covered with
a matte paint which, in order to be maintained
intact, requires special care.
To correctly wash the vehicle, follow these
instructions:
If high pressure jets or cleaners are used to
wash the vehicle, keep a distance of at least
15 inches (40 cm) from the bodywork to
avoid damage or alteration. Build up of
water could cause damage to the vehicle in
the long term.

To make it easier to remove any dirt deposits in
the area where the blades are normally located it
is recommended to position the windshield
wipers vertically (service position).

Wash the bodywork using a low pressure jet
of water if possible.

Wipe a sponge with a slightly soapy solution over
the bodywork, frequently rinsing the sponge.

Rinse well with water and dry with a leather
chamois.
CAUTION!
The Manual Trunk Opening Device allows
the trunk to be opened without a key, even
if the vehicle is locked. Do not use this
Device unless the vehicle is parked in a
secure area.
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253

Dry the less visible parts (e.g. door frames,
hood, headlight frames, etc.) with special care,
as water may stagnate more easily in these
areas. Do not wash the car after it has been
left in the sun or with the hood hot: this may
alter the shine of the paintwork.
Exterior plastic parts must be cleaned in the
same way as the rest of the vehicle.
If washing the car in a service that moves the
car, for cars with automatic transmissions,
PARK (P) must be cut out. You have to shut off
the engine in the following conditions: car
stopped, transmission in NEUTRAL (N), push
the starter button for at least three seconds.

NOTE:

Avoid parking under trees; the resin dropped
by trees makes the paintwork go opaque and
increases the possibility of corrosion.
Windows
Use specific detergents and clean cloths to
prevent scratching or altering the transpar -
ency. Front Headlights

Use a soft cloth soaked in water and detergent
for washing cars.

NOTE:

Never use aromatic substances (e.g. gaso -
line) or ketones (e.g. acetone) for cleaning
the plastic lenses of the headlights.
When cleaning with a pressure washer,
keep the pressure washer at least eight
inches (20 cm) away from the headlights.
Engine Compartment
At the end of every Winter, wash the engine
compartment thoroughly, taking care not to
aim the jet of water directly at the electronic
control units or at the windshield wiper
motors. Have this operation performed at a
specialized workshop. For further information

Ú
page 215.

NOTE:

The washing should take place with the engine
cold and the ignition device in the STOP posi -
tion. After the washing operation, make sure
that the various protections (e.g. rubber caps
and guards) have not been removed or
damaged.
INTERIORS
Periodically check the cleanliness of the inte -
rior, beneath the mats, which could cause
oxidation of the sheet metal.
Seats And Fabric Parts
Remove dust with a soft brush or a vacuum
cleaner. Rub the seats with a sponge moist -
ened with a solution of water and neutral
detergent.
Cleaning heat press images on seats — if
equipped:
Due to the color, opacity and wear-resistant
protection with which the heat press images
on some seats are made, they may be subject
to temporary scratching if they are touched by
finger nails, keys, or other hard objects. In
such cases, the visible signs do not impair the
profiled images, and can easily be removed by
wiping the affected area with a microfiber
cloth moistened with water (not dry) to restore
the seat to its original condition. The micro -
fiber cloth must not have been previously
soaked in other substances or detergents.
CAUTION!
Wipe the rear window inside gently with a
cloth following the direction of the filaments
to avoid damaging the heating device.
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263

FUEL REQUIREMENTS
These engines are designed to meet
all emission regulations, and provide
satisfactory fuel economy and
performance when using
high-quality unleaded “Regular” gasoline
having a posted octane number of 87 as spec -
ified by the (R+M)/2 method. For optimal
performance the use of 91 or higher octane
“Premium” gasoline is recommended in these
engines.
While operating on gasoline with the required
octane number, hearing a light knocking
sound from the engine is not a cause for
concern. However, if the engine is heard
making a heavy knocking sound, see your
dealer immediately. Use of gasoline with a
lower than recommended octane number can
cause engine failure and may void or not be
covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Poor quality gasoline can cause problems
such as hard starting, stalling, and hesitations.
If you experience these symptoms, try another
brand of gasoline before considering service
for the vehicle.
Reformulated Gasoline
Many areas of the country require the use of
cleaner burning gasoline referred to as “refor -
mulated gasoline”. Reformulated gasoline
contains oxygenates and are specifically
blended to reduce vehicle emissions and
improve air quality. The use of reformulated gasoline is recom
-
mended. Properly blended reformulated gaso -
line will provide improved performance and
durability of engine and fuel system compo -
nents.
Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends
Some fuel suppliers blend unleaded gasoline
with oxygenates such as ethanol.
Problems that result from using gasoline
containing more than 15% ethanol (E-15) or
gasoline containing methanol are not the
responsibility of the manufacturer and not
covered under New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
CNG And LP Fuel System Modifications
Modifications that allow the engine to run on
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Liquid
Propane (LP) may result in damage to the
engine, emissions, and fuel system compo -
nents. Problems that result from running CNG
or LP are not the responsibility of FCA US LLC
and not covered under the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese
Tricarbonyl (MMT) In Gasoline
MMT is a manganese-containing metallic addi -
tive that is blended into some gasoline to
increase octane. Gasoline blended with MMT
provides no performance advantage beyond
gasoline of the same octane number without
MMT. Gasoline blended with MMT reduces
spark plug life and reduces emissions system
performance in some vehicles. FCA US LLC
recommends that gasoline without MMT be
used in your vehicle. The MMT content of gaso -
line may not be indicated on the gasoline
pump; therefore, you should ask your gasoline
retailer whether the gasoline contains MMT.
MMT is prohibited in Federal and California
reformulated gasoline.
CAUTION!
DO NOT use E-85, gasoline containing
methanol, or gasoline containing more than
15% ethanol (E-15). Use of these blends
may result in starting and drivability
problems, damage critical fuel system
components, cause emissions to exceed
the applicable standard, and/or cause the
Malfunction Indicator Light to illuminate.
Please observe pump labels as they should
clearly communicate if a fuel contains
greater than 15% ethanol (E-15).
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

264

(Continued)
Materials Added To Fuel
Besides using unleaded gasoline with the
proper octane rating, gasolines that contain
detergents, corrosion and stability additives
are recommended. Using gasolines that have
these additives will help improve fuel
economy, reduce emissions, and maintain
vehicle performance.Designated TOP TIER Detergent
Gasoline contains a higher level of
detergents to further aide in mini -
mizing engine and fuel system
deposits. When available, the usage of TOP
TIER Detergent Gasoline is recommended.
Visit
www.toptiergas.com
for a list of TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline Retailers.
Indiscriminate use of fuel system cleaning
agents should be avoided. Many of these
materials intended for gum and varnish
removal may contain active solvents or similar
ingredients. These can harm fuel system
gasket and diaphragm materials.
Fuel System Cautions

NOTE:

Intentional tampering with the emissions
control system can result in civil penalties
being assessed against you.
CAUTION!
Follow these guidelines to maintain your
vehicle’s performance:
The use of leaded gasoline is prohibited by
Federal law. Using leaded gasoline can
impair engine performance and damage
the emissions control system.
An out-of-tune engine or certain fuel or
ignition malfunctions can cause the cata -
lytic converter to overheat. If you notice a
pungent burning odor or some light
smoke, your engine may be out of tune or
malfunctioning and may require imme -
diate service. Contact an authorized
dealer for service assistance.
The use of fuel additives, which are now
being sold as octane enhancers, is not
recommended. Most of these products
contain high concentrations of methanol.
Fuel system damage or vehicle perfor -
mance problems resulting from the use of
such fuels or additives is not the responsi -
bility of FCA US LLC and may void or not be
covered under the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty.
CAUTION! (Continued)
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270

CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE
SUGGESTIONS FOR OBTAINING
SERVICE FOR YOUR VEHICLE
Prepare For The Appointment
All work to be performed may not be covered
by the warranty. Discuss additional charges
with the service manager. Keep a mainte-
nance log of your vehicle's service history, as
this can often provide a clue to the current
problem.
Prepare A List
Make a written list of your vehicle's problems
or the specific work you want done. If you've
had an accident or work done that is not on
your maintenance log, let the service advisor
know.
Be Reasonable With Requests
If you list a number of items and you must
have your vehicle by the end of the day,
discuss the situation with the service advisor
and list the items in order of priority. At many
authorized dealers, you may obtain a rental
vehicle (additional charges may apply). If you
need a rental, it is advisable to make these
arrangements when you call for an appoint -
ment.
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE
FCA US LLC and its authorized dealers are
vitally interested in your satisfaction. We want
you to be happy with our products and
services.
Warranty service must be done by an autho -
rized dealer. We strongly recommend that you
take the vehicle to an authorized dealer. They
know your vehicle the best, and are most
concerned that you get prompt and high
quality service. FCA US LLC's authorized
dealers have the facilities, factory-trained
technicians, special tools, and the latest infor -
mation to ensure the vehicle is fixed correctly
and in a timely manner.
This is why you should always talk to an autho -
rized dealer’s service manager first. If for
some reason you are still not satisfied, talk to
the general manager or owner of the autho -
rized dealer. They want to know if you need
assistance. If an authorized dealer is unable to
resolve the concern, you may contact the FCA
US LLC's Customer Assistance center. Any communication to FCA US LLC’s customer
center should include the following informa
-
tion:
Owner's name and address
Owner's telephone number (mobile, home
and office)
Authorized dealer name
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Vehicle delivery date and mileage
Alfa Romeo Customer Center
P.O. Box 21–8004
Auburn Hills, MI 48321–8004
Phone: 1-844-Alfa-USA (1-844-253-2872)
Alfa Romeo Customer Care (Canada)
P.O. Box 1621
Windsor, Ontario N9A 4H6
Phone: 1-877-230-0563 (English)
Phone: 1-877-515-9112 (French)
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