check engine ALFA ROMEO GIULIA 2021 User Guide

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

84

ONBOARD DIAGNOSTIC
SYSTEM
Operation
The Onboard Diagnostic system (OBD) carries
out a continuous diagnosis of the components
of the vehicle related to emissions.
It also alerts the driver of when these compo-
nents are no longer in peak condition by
switching on the warning light on the instru -
ment panel
Ú
page 73.
The aim of the OBD system (Onboard Diag -
nostic) is to:
Monitor the efficiency of the system
Indicate an increase in emissions
Indicate the need to replace damaged
components The vehicle also has a connector, which can
interface with appropriate tools, that makes it
possible to read the error codes stored in the
electronic control units together with a series
of specific parameters for engine operation
and diagnosis. This check can be carried out
by an authorized dealer.

NOTE:

After eliminating a fault, to check the system
completely, an authorized dealer is obliged to
run tests and, if necessary certain road tests.
Onboard Diagnostic System (OBD II)
Cybersecurity
Your vehicle is required to have OBD II and a
connection port to allow access to information
related to the performance of your emissions
controls. Authorized service technicians may
need to access this information to assist with
the diagnosis and service of your vehicle and
emissions system.
WARNING!
ONLY an authorized service technician
should connect equipment to the OBD II
connection port in order to read the VIN,
diagnose, or service your vehicle.
If unauthorized equipment is connected to
the OBD II connection port, such as a
driver-behavior tracking device, it may:
• Be possible that vehicle systems,
including safety related systems,
could be impaired or a loss of vehicle
control could occur that may result in an accident involving serious injury or
death.
• Access, or allow others to access,
information stored in your vehicle
systems, including personal informa-
tion.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 84

85

EMISSIONS INSPECTION AND
MAINTENANCE PROGRAMS
In some localities, it may be a legal require-
ment to pass an inspection of your vehicle's
emissions control system. Failure to pass
could prevent vehicle registration.
For states that require an Inspection
and Maintenance (I/M), this check
verifies the Malfunction Indicator
Light (MIL) is functioning and is not
on when the engine is running, and that the
OBD II system is ready for testing.
Normally, the OBD II system will be ready. The
OBD II system may not be ready if your vehicle
was recently serviced, recently had a depleted
battery or a battery replacement. If the OBD II
system should be determined not ready for the
I/M test, your vehicle may fail the test.
Your vehicle has a simple ignition actuated
test, which you can use prior to going to the
test station. To check if your vehicle's OBD II
system is ready, you must do the following:
1. Cycle the ignition switch to the ON posi -
tion, but do not crank or start the engine.

NOTE:

If you crank or start the engine, you will have to
start this test over. 2. As soon as you cycle the ignition switch to
the ON position, you will see the Malfunc -
tion Indicator Light (MIL) symbol come on
as part of a normal bulb check.
3. Approximately 15 seconds later, one of two things will happen:
• The MIL will flash for about 10 seconds
and then return to being fully illumi-
nated until you turn OFF the ignition or
start the engine. This means that your
vehicle's OBD II system is not ready and
you should not proceed to the I/M
station.
• The MIL will not flash at all and will
remain fully illuminated until you place the ignition in the off position or start
the engine. This means that your
vehicle's OBD II system is ready and you
can proceed to the I/M station. If your

OBD II system is
not ready, you should
see an authorized dealer or repair facility. If
your vehicle was recently serviced or had a
battery failure or replacement, you may need
to do nothing more than drive your vehicle as
you normally would in order for your OBD II
system to update. A recheck with the above
test routine may then indicate that the system
is now ready .
Regardless of whether your vehicle's OBD II
system is ready or not, if the MIL is illuminated
during normal vehicle operation you should
have your vehicle serviced before going to the
I/M station. The I/M station can fail your
vehicle because the MIL is on with the engine
running.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 85

95

(Continued)
When parking uphill, before activating the
PARK (P) mode, engage the Electric Park
Brake. Otherwise, it could be difficult to
engage the (P) mode.
To check that the PARK (P) mode is actually
engaged, make sure (P) is illuminated on the
display and on the gear selector.REVERSE (R)
Select this mode only with the vehicle at a
standstill.
NEUTRAL (N)
Use this range when the vehicle is standing for
prolonged periods with the engine running.
The engine may be started in this range. Apply
the Electric Park Brake and shift the transmis-
sion into PARK (P) if you must leave the
vehicle.
WARNING!
Never use the PARK position as a substi -
tute for the parking brake. Always apply
the parking brake fully when parked to
guard against vehicle movement and
possible injury or damage.
Your vehicle could move and injure you
and others if it is not in PARK. Check by
trying to move the gear selector out of
PARK with the brake pedal released.
Make sure the transmission is in PARK
before leaving the vehicle.
It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or
NEUTRAL if the engine speed is higher
than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly
pressing the brake pedal, the vehicle
could accelerate quickly forward or in
reverse. You could lose control of the
vehicle and hit someone or something.
Only shift into gear when the engine is
idling normally and your foot is firmly
pressing the brake pedal.
Unintended movement of a vehicle could
injure those in or near the vehicle. As with
all vehicles, you should never exit a
vehicle while the engine is running. Before
exiting a vehicle, always apply the parking
brake, shift the transmission into PARK,
and turn the ignition STOP/OFF. When the
ignition is in the STOP/OFF mode, the
transmission is locked in PARK, securing
the vehicle against unwanted movement.
When leaving the vehicle, always make
sure the ignition is in the STOP/OFF mode,
remove the key fob from the vehicle, and
lock the vehicle.
Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or
with access to an unlocked vehicle.
Allowing children to be in a vehicle unat -
tended is dangerous for a number of
reasons. A child or others could be seri -
ously or fatally injured. Children should be
warned not to touch the parking brake,
brake pedal or the transmission gear
selector.
Do not leave the key fob in or near the
vehicle (or in a location accessible to chil -
dren), and do not leave the ignition in the
ON mode. A child could operate power
windows, other controls, or move the
vehicle.
WARNING! (Continued) CAUTION!
Before moving the transmission gear
selector out of PARK, you must push the
ignition button to cycle from STOP/OFF
mode to the ON mode, and also press the
brake pedal. Otherwise, damage to the
gear selector could result.
DO NOT race the engine when shifting
from PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear
range, as this can damage the drivetrain.
WARNING!
Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off
the ignition to coast down a hill. These are
unsafe practices that limit your response to
changing traffic or road conditions. You
might lose control of the vehicle and have a
collision.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 95

STARTING AND OPERATING

138

TRAILER TOWING
Trailer towing is not recommended for this
vehicle.
SUGGESTIONS FOR DRIVING
Saving Fuel
Below are some suggestions which may help
you save fuel and lower the amount of harmful
emissions released into the atmosphere.
Vehicle Maintenance
Checks and operations should be carried out
in accordance with the Maintenance Plan

Ú
page 204.
Tires
Check the tire pressures at least once every
four weeks: if the pressure is too low,
consumption levels increase as resistance to
rolling is higher.
Unnecessary Loads
Do not travel with an overloaded trunk. The
weight of the vehicle and its arrangement
greatly affect fuel consumption and stability.
Electric Devices
Use electrical systems only for the amount of
time needed. The rear window defroster, addi -
tional headlights, windshield wipers and
heater blower fan require a considerable
amount of energy; increasing the current
uptake increases fuel consumption (by up to
+25% when city driving). Climate Control System
Using the climate control system will increase
consumption: use standard ventilation when
the temperature outside permits.
Devices for Aerodynamic Control
The use of non-certified devices for aerody
-
namic control may adversely affect air drag
and consumption levels.
Driving Style
Starting
Do not warm up the engine at low or high revs
when the vehicle is stationary; this causes the
engine to warm up more slowly, thereby
increasing fuel consumption and emissions. It
is therefore advisable to drive off immediately,
slowly, avoiding high speeds: by doing this the
engine will warm up more quickly.
Unnecessary Actions
Avoid revving up when starting at traffic lights
or before stopping the engine. This action is
unnecessary and causes increased fuel
consumption and pollution.
Gear Selection
Use a high gear when traffic and road condi -
tions allow it. Using a low gear for faster accel -
eration will increase fuel consumption.
Improper use of a high gear increases
consumption, emissions and engine wear. Max. Speed
Fuel consumption considerably increases as
speed increases. Maintain a constant speed,
avoiding unnecessary braking and accelera
-
tion, which cost in terms of both fuel consump -
tion and emissions.
Acceleration

Accelerating violently severely affects consump -
tion and emissions: acceleration should be
gradual and should not exceed the maximum
torque.

Conditions Of Use
Cold Starting
Short trips and frequent cold starts will not
allow the engine to reach optimum operating
temperature. This results in a significant
increase in consumption levels (from +15 to
+30% in city driving) and emissions.
Traffic And Road Conditions
High fuel consumption is caused by heavy
traffic, for instance when traveling in traffic
with frequent use of low gears or in cities with
many traffic lights. Winding mountain roads
and rough road surfaces also adversely affect
consumption.
Stops In Traffic
During prolonged stops (e.g. railway cross -
ings), turn off the engine.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 138

139

Transporting Passengers
Transporting Animals
The intervention of the airbags may be
dangerous for an animal on the front seat. It is
therefore advised to arrange animals on the
rear seat inside dedicated cages restrained by
the vehicle’s seat belts.
Keep in mind that, in the event of a sudden
braking or an accident, an inadequately
restrained animal may be projected within the
passenger compartment, risking injury to the
animal itself and the other occupants of the
vehicle.
Exhaust Gas
Exhaust emissions are very dangerous, and
may be lethal. They contain carbon monoxide,
a colorless, odorless gas which can cause
fainting and poisoning if inhaled.
To avoid inhaling carbon monoxide, take the
following measures:
Do not keep the engine running in closed
spaces.
If, for some reason (e.g. transporting bulky
loads), it is necessary to drive with the trunk
open, close all the windows and run the
climate control fan at maximum speed. DO
NOT activate air recirculation mode.
Should it be necessary to stay in the
stationary vehicle with engine running,
adjust the ventilation/heating system and
operate the fan in such a way that outside
air will enter the passenger compartment.
Activate the maximum fan speed.
Maintenance of the exhaust system provides
the best protection against leaks of carbon
monoxide into the passenger compartment.
Should an unusual noise from the exhaust
system or the presence of exhaust gas in the
passenger compartment be identified, or if the
underbody or rear section of the vehicle is
damaged, have the entire exhaust system and
bodywork areas checked to identify any components which are broken, damaged,
worn or have moved from their correct fitting
position. If any of these things occur, contact
an authorized dealer.
Open welding or loose connections may permit
exhaust gas to enter the passenger compart
-
ment.
Check the exhaust system each time the
vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change
operations. Replace the components if neces -
sary, contact an authorized dealer.
Performance — Quadrifoglio
This vehicle is equipped with an engine
capable of delivering exceptionally fast accel -
eration and speed:
Peak power: 505 HP at 6500 RPM.
Peak torque: 443 ft-lbs at 2500–5000
RPM.
Top speed: 191 mph (307 km/h).
Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (0 to
100 km/h): 3.8 seconds.
For safe driving, it is essential, particularly
during the first days of use, to get to know the
car by driving carefully and gradually discov -
ering its performance.
WARNING!
It is extremely dangerous to leave children
in a parked vehicle when the temperature
outside is very high. The heat inside the
passenger compartment may have
serious, or even fatal, consequences.
Never travel in the trunk of the vehicle. In
the event of an accident, anyone inside
the trunk would be at greater risk of
serious or even fatal injury.
Ensure that all the occupants of the
vehicle wear their seat belts correctly and
that any children are positioned correctly
on the dedicated child restraint systems.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 139

STARTING AND OPERATING

140

Brakes
The car braking system may be available with
four carbon-ceramic material brake discs, one
on each wheel.
In order to guarantee the maximum braking
capacity for the first use, Alfa Romeo performs
a “run-in” procedure for discs and pads
directly at the factory.
The use of carbon-ceramic material brake
discs guarantees braking features (better
deceleration/pedal load ratio, braking
distances, fading resistance) proportional to
the dynamic features of the car in addition to
considerably decreasing the unsprung compo-
nent weight.
The materials used and the structural features
of the system could generate unusual noises
which have absolutely no adverse effect on
correct operation and reliability of the braking
system.
Greater pressure may need to be applied to
the brake pedal the first time to keep the same
braking capacities in presence of condensa -
tion or salt on the braking surfaces, for
example after washing or if the car is not used
for a long time.

NOTE:

Given the high technological level of this
system, any servicing on it must be performed
by an authorized dealer which exclusively has
the skills needed for the repair and mainte -
nance operations. In case of intensive, high-performance use of
the car, have the efficiency of the
carbon-ceramic material braking system
inspected as shown on the Maintenance Plan
at an authorized dealer.
Driving On Race Tracks
Before driving on a track using a racing style, it
is necessary to:
Attend a race track driving course.
Check all liquid levels in the engine
compartment.
Have the car inspected at an authorized
dealer.
Remember that the car was not designed to be
driven exclusively on the race track and that
this use increases stress and component
wear.

NOTE:

Quadrifoglio front brakes are equipped with
NAO type pads (Non-Asbestos Organic). These
pads are NOT suitable for high thermal loads
(for example track use). If you want to use
vehicle on a track it is recommended to use
the optional CCM Brakes (Carbon Ceramic
Brake disc). Preheating The Carbon Ceramic Material
Brake Discs (If Equipped)
The brake discs must be warmed up to make
them fully efficient. You are advised to perform
the following procedure to achieve optimal
efficiency:
Brake nine times from 80 mph to 18 mph
(130 km/h to 30 km/h) with deceleration
equal to 0.7g (the longitudinal acceleration
value is shown on the instrument panel
display by setting RACE mode and selecting
the “Performance” page) with 20 second
intervals between brake applications; keep
the car at a speed comprised between
37 mph and 62 mph (60 km/h and
100 km/h) and do not brake for 4 minutes to allow the brakes to cool down.
Brake three times from 124 mph to 18 mph
(200 km/h to 30 km/h) with deceleration
equal to 1.1g (ABS operation) with 30
second intervals between brake applica -
tions; keep the car at a speed comprised
between 37 mph and 62 mph (60 km/h
and 100 km/h) and do not brake for
5 minutes to allow the brakes to cool down.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 140

145

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) System — If
Equipped
The BSM system uses two radar sensors,
located in the rear fascia/bumper (one on
each side), to detect the presence of other
vehicles in the rear side blind spots of your
vehicle.Rear Sensor Location
The system warns the driver about the pres -
ence of other vehicles in the detection area by
illuminating the BSM Warning Light located
within the door mirror on the side in which the
other vehicle was detected. If equipped, an
audible chime will also be heard to alert the
driver (if option is selected within the radio
system). BSM Indicator Light
When the engine is started, the warning light
illuminates briefly to signal the driver that the
system is active.
Sensors
The sensors are activated when any forward
gear is engaged at a speed higher than
approximately 6 mph (10 km/h) or when
REVERSE is engaged.
The sensors are temporarily deactivated when
the vehicle is stationary or the vehicle is in
PARK.
The detection area of the system covers
approximately one lane on both sides of the
vehicle.
This area begins from the door mirror and
extends for approximately 19 ft (6 m) towards
the rear part of the vehicle. When the sensors are active, the system moni
-
tors the detection areas on both sides of the
vehicle and warns the driver about the
possible presence of vehicles in these areas.
While driving, the system monitors the detec -
tion zone to check whether it is necessary to
send a signal to the driver on both sides. The
system monitors this detection zone in three
different situations:
When you are being overtaken by a vehicle.
When you are overtaking a vehicle.
When a vehicle approaches from the side.

NOTE:

The system does not alert the driver of the
presence of fixed objects (e.g. safety
barriers, poles, walls, etc.). However, in
some circumstances, the system may acti -
vate in the presence of these objects. This is
normal and does not indicate a system
malfunction.
The system does not alert the driver about
the presence of vehicles coming from the
opposite direction, in the adjacent lanes.
If a trailer is hitched to the car, the system
automatically deactivates.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 145

153

NOTE:

If the safety belts of the front seats are not
correctly fastened, the system will not inter-
vene on the braking system (only audible and
visual signals will be provided).
Changing The System Sensitivity
The sensitivity of the system can be changed
through the radio system menu, choosing from
one of the following three options: "Near",
"Medium" or "Far". Refer to the description in
the Information and Entertainment System
Owner’s Manual Supplement for how to
change the settings.
The default setting is "Medium". With this
setting, the system warns the driver of a
possible collision with the vehicle in front
when that vehicle is at a standard distance,
between that of the other two settings.
With the system sensitivity set to "Far", the
system will warn the driver of a possible colli -
sion with the vehicle in front when that vehicle
is at a greater distance, thus providing the
possibility of acting on the brakes more lightly
and gradually. This setting provides the driver
with the maximum possible reaction time to
prevent a potential collision.
With the option set to "Near", the system will
alert the driver of a possible collision with the
vehicle in front when that vehicle is close. This
setting offers the driver a lower reaction time
compared to the "Medium" and "Far" settings,
in the event of a potential collision, but
permits more dynamic driving of the vehicle. The system sensitivity setting is kept in the
memory when the engine is turned off.
System Limited Operation Warning
If a dedicated message is displayed, a condi
-
tion limiting the system operation may have
occurred. The possible reasons of this limita -
tion are if something is blocking the camera
view, or a fault is present.
If an obstruction is signaled, clean the area of
the windshield.
Although the vehicle can still be driven in
normal conditions, the system may be not
completely available.
When the conditions limiting the system func -
tions end, this will go back to normal and
complete operation. Should the fault persist,
contact an authorized dealer.
System Failure Signaling
If the system turns off and a dedicated
message is shown on the display, it means
that there is a fault with the system.
In this case, it is still possible to drive the
vehicle, but you are advised to contact an
authorized dealer as soon as possible.
Radar Indication Not Available
If conditions are such that the radar cannot
detect obstacles correctly, the system is deac -
tivated and a dedicated message appears on
the display. This generally occurs in the event
of poor visibility, such as when it is snowing or
raining heavily. The function of this system can also be tempo
-
rarily reduced due to obstructions such as
mud, dirt or ice on the fascia/bumper. In such
cases, a dedicated message will be shown on
the display and the system will be deactivated.
This message can sometimes appear in condi -
tions of high reflectivity (e.g. tunnels with
reflective tiles or ice or snow). When the condi -
tions limiting the system functions end, it will
go back to normal and complete operation.
In certain cases, this dedicated message
could be displayed when the radar is not
detecting any vehicles or objects within its
view range.
If atmospheric conditions are not the reason
behind this message, check if the sensor is
dirty. It could be necessary to clean or remove
any obstructions in the area.

If the message appears frequently, even in the
absence of atmospheric conditions such as
snow, rain, mud or other obstructions, contact an
authorized dealer for a sensor alignment check.

In the absence of visible obstructions, manu -
ally removing the decorative cover trim and
cleaning the radar surface could be required.
Have this operation performed at an autho -
rized dealer.

NOTE:

It is recommended that you do not install
devices, accessories, or aerodynamic attach -
ments in front of the sensor or darken it in any
way, as this can compromise the correct func -
tioning of the system.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 153

SAFETY

166

nance free, if any of the following occurs, have
an authorized dealer service the air bag
system immediately.
The Air Bag Warning Light does not come on
during the four to eight seconds when the
ignition switch is first in the ON/RUN posi-
tion.
The Air Bag Warning Light remains on after
the four to eight-second interval.
The Air Bag Warning Light comes on inter-
mittently or remains on while driving.

NOTE:

If the speedometer, tachometer, or any engine
related gauges are not working, the Occupant
Restraint Controller (ORC) may also be
disabled. In this condition the air bags may not
be ready to inflate for your protection. Have an
authorized dealer service the air bag system
immediately.
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light
If a fault with the Air Bag Warning
Light is detected, which could affect
the Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS), the Redundant Air Bag
Warning Light will illuminate on the instrument
panel. The Redundant Air Bag Warning Light
will stay on until the fault is cleared. In addi -
tion, a single chime will sound to alert you that
the Redundant Air Bag Warning Light has
come on and a fault has been detected. If the
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light comes on
intermittently or remains on while driving have
an authorized dealer service the vehicle imme -
diately.
For additional information regarding the
Redundant Air Bag Warning Light, see

Ú
page 73.
Front Air Bags
This vehicle has front air bags and lap/
shoulder belts for both the driver and front
passenger. The front air bags are a supple -
ment to the seat belt restraint systems. The
driver front air bag is mounted in the center of
the steering wheel. The passenger front air
bag is mounted in the instrument panel, above
the glove compartment. The words “SRS
AIRBAG” or “AIRBAG” are embossed on the air
bag covers. Driver Air Bag
Passenger Air Bag
WARNING!
Ignoring the Air Bag Warning Light in your
instrument panel could mean you won’t
have the air bag system to protect you in a
collision. If the light does not come on as a
bulb check when the ignition is first turned
on, stays on after you start the vehicle, or if
it comes on as you drive, have an
authorized dealer service the air bag
system immediately.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 166

SAFETY

172

Enhanced Accident Response System
In the event of an impact, if the communica-
tion network remains intact, and the power
remains intact, depending on the nature of the
event, the Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC)
will determine whether to have the Enhanced
Accident Response System perform the
following functions:
Cut off fuel to the engine (if equipped)
Cut off battery power to the electric motor (if
equipped)
Flash hazard lights as long as the battery
has power
Turn on the interior lights, which remain on
as long as the battery has power or for
15 minutes from the intervention of the
Enhanced Accident Response System
Unlock the power door locks
Your vehicle may also be designed to perform
any of these other functions in response to the
Enhanced Accident Response System:
Turn off the Fuel Filter Heater, Turn off the
HVAC Blower Motor, Close the HVAC Circula -
tion Door
Cut off battery power to the:
• Engine
• Electric Motor (if equipped)
• Electric power steering
• Brake booster
• Electric park brake
• Automatic transmission gear selector
• Horn
• Front wiper
• Headlamp washer pump

NOTE:

After an accident, remember to cycle the ignition
to the OFF position and remove the key from the
ignition switch to avoid draining the battery.
Carefully check the vehicle for fuel leaks in the
engine compartment and on the ground near the
engine compartment and fuel tank before reset -
ting the system and starting the engine. If there
are no fuel leaks or damage to the vehicle elec -
trical devices (e.g. headlights) after an accident,
reset the system by following the procedure
described below. If you have any doubt, contact
an authorized dealer.
Enhanced Accident Response System
Reset Procedure

After the event occurs, when the system is active,
a message regarding fuel cutoff is displayed.
Turn the ignition switch from ignition ACC or ON/
RUN to ignition OFF. Carefully check the vehicle
for fuel leaks in the engine compartment and on
the ground near the engine compartment and
fuel tank before resetting the system and
starting the engine.

Depending on the nature of the event the left
and right turn signal lights, located in the
instrument panel, may both be blinking and
will continue to blink. In order to move your
vehicle to the side of the road, you must follow
the system reset procedure.
21_GA_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 172