check engine ALFA ROMEO STELVIO 2023 Owner's Guide

203

Brake pads/brake discs replacement.
3
Vis

ually inspect the condition and tensioning of the
accessory drive belt(s).
●●●●●●●●●●●●
Change engine coolant.
●
Change engine oil and replace oil filter.
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Replace transfer case oil (AWD models only).
●
Replace accessory drive belt/s.4
Rep

lace air cleaner cartridge.
5●●●●●●●
Replace the additional fuel filter (if equipped).●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
Change the brake fluid.
6
Rep

lace the cabin air filter.
5o●o●o●o●o●o●o●o
Spark plug replacement.
7●●●●●
1. The SOS backup battery must be replaced every five years, regardless of mileage.
2. Top off using the fluids indicated only after checking that the system is intact
Ú
page 252.
3. The actual interval for changing the brake pads and the carbon ceramic brake discs depends on the vehicle usage conditions and is signaled by the warning light or message on the instrument panel. After each discs replacement, reset the warning light using the diagnostic socket.
4. Areas that are not dusty: recommended maximum mileage 36,000 miles (60,000 km). Regardless of the mileage, the belt must be replaced every 4 years. Dusty areas and/ or demanding use of the vehicle (cold climates, town use, long periods of idling): advised maximum mileage 18,000 miles (30,000 km). Regardless of the mileage, the belt must be replaced every 2 years.
5. If the vehicle is used in dusty areas, this engine air cleaner filter must be replaced every 10,000 miles (16,000 km).
6. The brake fluid replacement has to be done every two years, regardless of the mileage.
7. The spark plug change interval is mileage-based only. Yearly intervals do not apply.
Thousands of miles102030405060708090100110120130140150
Years123456789101112131415
Thousands of kilometers163248648096112128144160176192208224240
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204

ENGINE COMPARTMENT
CHECKING LEVELS — 2.0L ENGINE
1 – Engine Coolant Reservoir Cap4 – Intercooler Coolant Reservoir Cap
2 – Brake Fluid Reservoir Access Cover 5 – Engine Oil Filler Cap
3 – Windshield/Headlights Washer Fluid Reservoir Cap
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205

CHECKING LEVELS — 2.9L ENGINE
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:
1. “Vehicle Information”
2. “Engine Oil”
Check that the oil level is between the MIN and
MAX level on the instrument cluster display using
the 6 notches shown. 1 notch displays the MIN
level and 6 notches displays the MAX level.

NOTE:
Use care when filling under hood fluids such as
engine oil, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze
etc. to minimize spillage onto top of engine. Any
excess fluid that is spilled onto the top of the
engine should be removed using compressed air
or absorbent cloth.
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 8.8 fl oz (250 ml).The oil level can also be checked manually on
2.9L Quadrifoglio models.
1 – Engine Coolant Reservoir Cap
4 – Intercooler Coolant Reservoir Cap
2 – Brake Fluid Reservoir Cap Access Cover 5 – Engine Oil Dipstick
3 – Windshield/Headlight Washer Fluid Reservoir Cap 6 – Engine Oil Filler
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 (2.9L Quadrifoglio Only).
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

206

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
as this could cause oil to leak from engine.
Manual Oil Level Checking Procedure —
2.9L Quadrifoglio
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 — 2.9L Quadrifoglio
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to
ensure the correct indication of the oil level on
the display, proceed with the following process:
Leave the car on flat ground with the engine
running for approximately five minutes
(temperature higher than 198°F (90°C) and
shut the engine off.
Wait for five minutes, turn the ignition to the
ACC mode without starting the engine and wait
for a few seconds.

NOTE:
If the level indication is not updated after the
previously described procedure, repeat the
engine adjustment, shut the engine off and wait
another five minutes before starting it again. If
the indication is not updated after the second
start, contact an authorized dealer.
Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On
Display — 2.0L
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to
ensure the correct indication of the oil level on
the display, proceed with the following process:
Leave the car on flat ground with the engine
running for approximately five minutes
(temperature higher than 176°F (80°C) and
shut the engine off.
Start the engine again and idle it for about
two minutes.

NOTE:
If you have added the specified amount of oil and
the indicator is not reading “Full”, please contact
an authorized dealer.
ENGINE COOLANT FLUID
If the level is too low, unscrew the cap of the
reservoir and add the fluid described

Ú
page 252.
WASHER FLUID FOR WINDSHIELD/
H
EADLIGHTS
The windshield and headlight (if equipped)
washer fluid reservoir is equipped with a
telescopic filler neck.
If the level is too low, remove reservoir cap and lift
the filler neck. Then, add the fluid described

Ú
page 252. After filling the reservoir, lower the
filler neck and install the reservoir cap until you
hear it click.
CAUTION!
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.
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 aluminum
cap (if equipped). WARNING: risk of burns!
CAUTION!
The oil level must never exceed the MAX mark.
If the MAX mark is exceeded (last notch on
the right turns red) after the fill-up, go to an
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 an authorized dealer.
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207

NOTE:
Use care when filling under hood fluids such as
engine oil, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze
etc. to minimize spillage onto top of engine.
Any excess fluid that is spilled onto the top of
the engine should be removed using compressed
air or absorbent cloth.

NOTE:
The headlight washers are activated every
10 activations of the windshield washer.

NOTE:
The headlight washing system will not work if the
liquid level is low (situation indicated by the
symbol on the instrument cluster display

Ú
page 70). The windshield washer will keep
working.
On vehicles equipped with headlight washers,
there is a reference notch on the dipstick:
ONLY the windshield/rear window washer oper -
ates 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 an authorized
dealer to have the system checked.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ACTIVATION
S
YSTEM OIL
The transmission control oil level should only be
checked at an authorized dealer.
USEFUL ADVICE FOR EXTENDING THE LIFE
O
F YOUR BATTERY
To avoid draining your battery and make it last
longer, observe the following instructions:
When you park the vehicle, ensure that the
doors and liftgate 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 vehicle that require permanent
electrical supply (e.g. alarm, etc.), or accessories
which influence the electrical supply
requirements, contact an authorized dealer,
who’s qualified staff will evaluate the overall
electrical consumption.

NOTE:
After the battery is disconnected, the steering
must be initialized. The Power Steering
Warning Light on the instrument cluster display
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.
CAUTION!
If the charge level remains under 50% for a
long time, the battery may be damaged by
sulfation, reducing its capacity and efficiency
during the vehicle start. The battery is also
more prone to the risk of freezing (at
temperatures as high as 14°F (-10°C).
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

Ú
page 192.
Battery gas is flammable and explosive.
Keep flame or sparks away from the battery.
Do not use a booster battery or any other
booster source with an output greater than
12 Volts. Do not allow cable clamps to touch
each other.
Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead
compounds. Wash hands after handling.
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209

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.
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE
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

Ú
page 204.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, for
example every 1,864 miles (3,000 km).
It must be checked about five minutes after
stopping the engine.
Full operating temperature must be 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:
1. “Vehicle Information”
2. “Engine Oil”
Ensure that the oil level is within the interval on
the dipstick between the minimum and maximum
limits (Quadrifoglio only).
Changing The Engine Oil
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 200.
Choice Of Engine Oil Type
To ensure optimal performance and maximum
protection in all operating conditions, it is advised
to use certified engine oils

Ú
page 252.
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 especially for
the vehicle, and its performance may be deteri -
orated 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:
Incorrectly disposed used engine oil may seri -
ously 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.
ENGINE AIR CLEANER FILTER
Replacing the Engine Air Cleaner Filter
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 200. It
is advised to replace the engine air cleaner filter
with a genuine spare part, specifically designed
for this vehicle.
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM
M
AINTENANCE
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.
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210

Replace The Cabin Air Filter
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 200.
For cleaner replacement, contact an authorized
dealer.
LUBRICATING MOVING PARTS OF THE
B
ODYWORK
Ensure that the locks and bodywork junction
points, including components such as the seat
guides, door hinges (and rollers), liftgate 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. Operations of the
hood are to be carried out with the engine cold.
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 an authorized dealer as
soon as possible.
WINDSHIELD WIPER
Periodically clean the windshield, 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 0°F (-17.8°C), 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.
NOTE:
The life of the windshield wiper blades varies
according to the usage frequency. 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 wind
-
shield 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 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, while washing.

NOTE:
If the windshield wipers are raised while not in
the “service position,” it is possible to damage
the hood.
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.
WARNING!
Driving with worn windshield wiper blades is a
serious hazard, because visibility is reduced in
bad weather conditions.
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212

(Continued)
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 an 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, 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 use the vehicle if irregular idling or
operating conditions are experienced.
COOLING SYSTEM
Coolant Check
Your vehicle has two cooling systems and both
need to be checked to ensure they are at proper
fill levels

Ú
page 204.
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 for any
build-up of insects, leaves or other debris. Should
it be dirty, clean 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!
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.
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 position. The fan is
temperature controlled and can start at any
time the ignition is in the ON position.
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.
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213

(Continued)

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.
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 200.

NOTE:

For topping off, and proper coolant specifi-
cations
Ú
page 252.
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.
Use care when filling under hood fluids such as
engine oil, windshield washer fluid, antifreeze
etc. to minimize spillage onto top of engine.
Any excess fluid that is spilled onto the top of
the engine should be removed using
compressed air or absorbent cloth. 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.
Disposal of Used Coolant
Disposal of engine/intercooler coolant is subject
to legal requirements. Contact the appropriate
body to determine local regulations.

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 the 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.
For the correct servicing intervals

Ú
page 200.

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 over
-
heating. 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.
Do not use a pressure cap other than the one
specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or
engine damage may result.
WARNING!
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.
WARNING!
Use only manufacturer's recommended
brake fluid
Ú
page 252. 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.
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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Use only a transmission oil with the character-
istics indicated
Ú
page 252.
Special Additives
Do not use any type of additive with the
automatic transmission oil. The automatic
transmission oil is a product designed especially
for this vehicle and its performance may be
compromised through the use of further
additives. Frequency of Oil Changes
In normal vehicle operating conditions, it is not
necessary to change the transmission oil.
REPLACING THE BATTERY
If necessary, replace the battery with another
battery with the same specifications. It is advised
to contact an authorized dealer for replacement.

NOTE:
Each time the 12 Volt battery is reconnected,
cycle the steering wheel all the way to the left.
Then cycle the steering wheel all the way to the
right to allow the steering angle sensor to learn
the steering angle thresholds.
Follow the battery manufacturer's instructions for
maintenance.

NOTE:
It will not be possible to open the liftgate with a
key or by pushing the button in the passenger
compartment when the battery is disconnected. Always position the manual liftgate opening strap
on the liftgate lock before disconnecting the
battery. The procedure is described in the
“Liftgate Emergency Opening”

Ú
page 62.
FUSES
General Information
The fuses protect electrical systems against
excessive current.
When a device does not work, you must check the
electrical circuit inside of the fuse for a break/
melt.
Also, please be aware that using power outlets for
extended periods of time with the engine off may
result in vehicle battery discharge.
Blade Fuses
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 an 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.
WARNING! 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.

CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit an
authorized dealer immediately. Severe
transmission damage may occur. An
authorized dealer has the proper tools to
adjust the fluid level accurately.
1 — Electrical Circuit
2 — Blade Fuse With Good Electrical Circuit
3 — Blade Fuse With Bad Electrical Circuit
23_GU_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 214