engine FIAT FREEMONT 2014 1.G Owner's Manual
Page 92 of 388
LIGHTS
HEADLIGHT SWITCHThe headlight switch is located on the left side of
the instrument panel. This switch controls the
operation of the headlights, parking lights, in-
strument panel lights, instrument panel light dimming,
interior lights and fog lights.
(fig. 62)
Rotate the headlight switch clockwise to the first
detent for parking light and instrument panel light
operation. Rotate the headlight switch to the second
detent for headlight, parking light and instrument panel
light operation. AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS
(for versions/markets, where provided)
This system automatically turns the headlights on or off
according to ambient light levels. To turn the system
on, rotate the headlight switch counterclockwise to
the AUTO position. When the system is on, the
headlight time delay feature is also on. This means the
headlights will stay on for up to 90 seconds after you
turn the ignition switch OFF. To turn the automatic
system off, move the headlight switch out of the AUTO
position.
NOTE:
The engine must be running before the head-
lights will come on in the automatic mode.
HEADLIGHTS ON WITH WIPERS
(AVAILABLE WITH AUTOMATIC
HEADLIGHTS ONLY)
When this feature is active, the headlights will turn on
approximately 10 seconds after the wipers are turned
on if the headlight switch is placed in the AUTO
position. In addition, the headlights will turn off when
the wipers are turned off if they were turned on by this
feature.
NOTE: The Headlights On with Wipers feature can be
turned on and off using the Uconnect® System, refer
to “Uconnect® Settings” in “Knowing Your Vehicle”
for further information.
(fig. 62)
Headlight Switch
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•Turn the windshield wipers OFF when
driving through an automatic car wash.
Damage to the windshield wipers may
result if the wiper control is left in any position
other than OFF.
• In cold weather, always turn OFF the wiper
switch and allow the wipers to return to the park
position before turning OFF the engine. If the
wiper switch is left ON and the wipers freeze to
the windshield, damage to the wiper motor may
occur when the vehicle is restarted.
• Always remove any buildup of snow that pre-
vents the windshield wiper blades from returning
to the “park” position. If the windshield wiper
control is turned OFF, and the blades cannot
return to the “park” position, damage to the wiper
motor may occur.
WINDSHIELD WASHERS
To use the windshield washer, push the washer knob,
located on the end of the multifunction lever, inward to
the second detent.
If you activate the washer while the wiper control is in
the delay range, the wipers will operate in low-speed
for two or three wipe cycles after releasing the lever
and then resume the intermittent interval previously
selected. If you activate the washer while the wiper control is in
the OFF position, the wipers will operate for two or
three wipe cycles and then turn OFF.
WARNING!
Sudden loss of visibility through the
windshield c
ould lead to a collision. You
might not see other vehicles or other obstacles.
To avoid sudden icing of the windshield during
freezing weather, warm the windshield with the
defroster before and during windshield washer
use.
MIST FEATURE
Push the washer knob, located on the end of the
multifunction lever, inward to the first detent to acti-
vate a single wipe cycle to clear the windshield of road
mist or spray from a passing vehicle. The wipers will
continue to operate until you release the lever.
NOTE: The mist feature does not activate the washer
pump; therefore, no washer fluid will be sprayed on the
windshield. The wash function must be used in order to
spray the windshield with washer fluid.
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Rotate the switch upward past the first detent
position to activate the rear washer. The washer
pump will continue to operate as long as the switch is
held. Upon release, the wiper will cycle three times
before returning to the set position.
(fig. 70)
If the rear wiper is operating when the ignition is
turned to the LOCK position, the wiper will automati-
cally return to the “Park” position. When the vehicle is
restarted, the wiper will resume function at whichever
position the switch is set at.
• Turn the rear wiper off when driving
through an automatic car wash. Damage
to the rear wiper may result if the rear
wiper switch is left in the ON position.
• In cold weather, always turn off the rear wiper
switch and allow the rear wiper to return to the
park position before turning off the engine. If the
rear wiper switch is left on and the rear wiper
freezes to the window, damage to the rear wiper
motor may occur when the vehicle is restarted.
• Always remove any buildup of snow that pre-
vents the rear wiper blade from returning to the
park position. If the rear wiper control is turned
off and the blade cannot return to the park
position, damage to the rear wiper motor may
occur.
(fig. 70)
Rear Wiper/Washer Control
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REAR WINDOW DEFROSTERThe rear window defroster button is located on
the climate control panel. Press this button to
turn on the rear window defroster and the heated
outside mirrors (for versions/markets, where pro-
vided). An indicator in the button will illuminate when
the rear window defroster is on. The rear window
defroster automatically turns off after approximately
10 minutes.
NOTE: To prevent excessive battery drain, use the
rear window defroster only when the engine is oper-
ating.
Failure to follow these cautions can
cause damage to the heating elements:
•Use care when washing the inside of
the rear window. Do not use abrasive window
cleaners on the interior surface of the window.
Use a soft cloth and a mild washing solution,
wiping parallel to the heating elements. Labels
can be peeled off after soaking with warm water.
• Do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or abra-
sive window cleaners on the interior surface of
the window.
• Keep all objects a safe distance from the win-
dow.
ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL
When engaged, the Electronic Speed Control takes
over accelerator operations at speeds greater than
40 km/h.
(fig. 71)
NOTE: In order to ensure proper operation, the
Electronic Speed Control System has been designed to
shut down if multiple Speed Control functions are
operated at the same time. If this occurs, the Electronic
Speed Control System can be reactivated by pushing
the Electronic Speed Control ON/OFF button and
resetting the desired vehicle set speed.
(fig. 71)
Electronic Speed Control Buttons
1 — ON/OFF 3 — SET -
2 — RES + 4 — CANCEL
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•Many accessories that can be plugged in
draw power from the vehicle's battery,
even when not in use (i.e., cellular phones,
etc .). Eventually, if plugged in long enough, the
vehicle's battery will discharge sufficiently to de-
grade battery life and/or prevent the engine from
starting.
• Accessories that draw higher power (i.e., cool-
ers, vacuum cleaners, lights, etc .) will degrade the
battery even more quickly. Only use these inter-
mittently and with greater caution.
• After the use of high power draw accessories, or
long periods of the vehicle not being started (with
accessories still plugged in), the vehicle must be
driven a sufficient length of time to allow the
alternator to recharge the vehicle's batter y.
• Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs
only. Do not hang any type of accessory or acces-
sory bracket from the plug.
CUPHOLDERS
There are two cupholders, located in the center floor
console, for the front passengers.
(fig. 90)
For passengers in the second row there are two cup-
holders, located in the center armrest between the
two seats.
(fig. 90)
Floor Console Cupholders
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•To prevent damage to the roof of your
vehicle, DO NOT carry any loads on the
roof rack without the crossbars installed.
The load should be secured and placed on top of
the crossbars, not directly on the roof. If it is
necessary to place the load on the roof, place a
blanket or other protective layer between the
load and the roof surface.
• To avoid damage to the roof rack and vehicle,
do not exceed the maximum roof rack load ca-
pacity of 68 kg. Always distribute heavy loads as
evenly as possible and secure the load appropri-
ately.
• Long loads, which extend over the windshield,
such as wood panels or surfboards, should be
secured to both the front and rear of the vehicle.
• Travel at reduced speeds and turn corners care-
fully when carrying large or heavy loads on the
roof rack. Wind forces, due to natural causes or
nearby truck traffic , can add sudden upward
loads.This is especially true on large flat loads and
may result in damage to the cargo or your vehicle.BRAKE SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with dual hydraulic
brake systems. If either of the two hydraulic
systems loses normal capability, the remaining system
will still function. However, there will be some loss of
overall braking effectiveness. This will be evident by
increased pedal travel during application and greater
pedal force required to slow or stop the vehicle. In
addition, if the malfunction is caused by a leak in the
hydraulic system, the “Brake System Warning Light”
will turn on as the brake fluid level drops in the master
cylinder.
In the event power assist is lost for any reason (i.e.,
repeated brake applications with the engine OFF) the
brakes will still function. However, the effort required
to brake the vehicle will be much greater than that
required with the power system operating.
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BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM (BAS)
The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking
capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The
system detects an emergency braking situation by sens-
ing the rate and amount of brake application and then
applies optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help
reduce braking distances. The BAS complements the
ABS. Applying the brakes very quickly results in the
best BAS assistance. To receive the benefit of the
system, you must apply continuous braking pressure
during the stopping sequence, (do not “pump” the
brakes). Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless
braking is no longer desired. Once the brake pedal is
released, the BAS is deactivated.
WARNING!
BAS cannot prevent the natural laws of
physics from
acting on the vehicle, nor
can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing
road conditions. BAS cannot prevent accidents,
including those resulting from excessive speed in
turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or hydro-
planing. The capabilities of a BAS-equipped ve-
hicle must never be exploited in a reckless or
dangerous manner, which could jeopardize the
user's safety or the safety of others. TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM (TCS)
This system monitors the amount of wheel spin of each
of the driven wheels. If wheel spin is detected, brake
pressure is applied to the slipping wheel(s) and engine
power is reduced to provide enhanced acceleration
and stability. A feature of the TCS functions similar to a
limited slip differential and controls the wheel spin
across a driven axle. If one wheel on a driven axle is
spinning faster than the other, the system will apply the
brake of the spinning wheel. This will allow more
engine torque to be applied to the wheel that is not
spinning. This feature remains active even if TCS and
ESC are in the “Partial Off ” mode. Refer to “Electronic
Stability Control (ESC)” for further information.
ELECTRONIC ROLL MITIGATION (ERM)
This system anticipates the potential for wheel lift by
monitoring the driver’s steering wheel input and the
speed of the vehicle. When ERM determines that the
rate of change of the steering wheel angle and vehicle's
speed are sufficient to potentially cause wheel lift, it
then applies the appropriate brake and may also reduce
engine power to lessen the chance that wheel lift will
occur. ERM will only intervene during very severe or
evasive driving maneuvers. ERM can only reduce the
chance of wheel lift occurring during severe or evasive
driving maneuvers. It cannot prevent wheel lift due to
other factors, such as road conditions, leaving the
roadway, or striking objects or other vehicles.
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WARNING!
Many factors, such as vehicle loading,
road con di
tions, and driving conditions,
influence the chance that wheel lift or rollover
may occur. ERM cannot prevent all wheel lift or
rollovers, especially those that involve leaving the
roadway or striking objects or other vehicles.The
capabilities of an ERM-equipped vehicle must
never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous
manner, which could jeopardize the user's safety
or the safety of others.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
This system enhances directional control and stability
of the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESC
corrects for over-steering and under-steering the ve-
hicle by applying the brake of the appropriate wheel.
Engine power may also be reduced to help the vehicle
maintain the desired path.
The ESC uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the
path that the driver intends to steer the vehicle and
compares it to the actual path of the vehicle. When the
actual path does not match the intended path, the ESC
applies the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist in
counteracting the condition of over-steer or under-
steer. • Over-steer - when the vehicle is turning more than
appropriate for the steering wheel position.
• Under-steer - when the vehicle is turning less than appropriate for the steering wheel position.
WARNING!
•
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can-
not prevent the natural laws of physics
from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the
traction afforded by prevailing road conditions.
• ESC cannot prevent collisions, including those
resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving on
very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. ESC also
cannot prevent collisions resulting from the loss
of vehicle control due to inappropriate driver
input for the conditions. Only a safe, attentive,
and skillfull driver can prevent collisions.
• The capabilities of an ESC equipped vehicle
must never be explained in a reckless or danger-
ous manner which could jeopardize the user's
safetyorthesafetyofothers.
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ESC Operating Modes
The ESC system has two available operating modes.
Full On
This is the normal operating mode for ESC. Whenever
the vehicle is started the system will be in this mode.
This mode should be used for most driving situations.
ESC should only be turned to “Partial Off ” for specific
reasons as noted. Refer to “Partial Off ” for additional
information.
Partial Off
The “ESC OFF” button is located in the switch bank
above the climate control. To enter the “Partial Off ”
mode, momentarily press the “ESC OFF” button and
the “ESC OFF” Indicator Light will illuminate. To turn
the ESC on again, momentarily press the “ESC OFF”
button and the “ESC OFF” Indicator Light will turn off.
This will restore the normal “ESC On” mode of opera-
tion.
(fig. 114)
NOTE:To improve the vehicle's traction when driving
with snow chains, or when starting off in deep snow,
sand, or gravel, it may be desirable to switch to the
“Partial Off ” mode by momentarily pressing the “ESC
OFF” button. Once the situation requiring “Partial
Off ” mode is overcome, turn ESC back on by momen-
tarily pressing the “ESC OFF” button. This may be
done while the vehicle is in motion.
WARNING!
• When in “Partial Off ” mode, the TCS
fu n
ctionalityofESC(exceptforthelim-
ited slip feature described in the TCS section) has
been disabled and the “ESC Off Indicator Light”
will be illuminated.When in “Partial Off ”mode,
the engine power reduction of TCS is disabled,
and the enhanced vehicle stability offered by the
ESC system is reduced.
• Trailer Sway Control (TSC) is disabled when
the ESC system is in the “Partial Off ” mode.
(fig. 114)
ESC OFF Button
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ESC ACTIVATION/MALFUNCTION
INDICATOR LIGHT AND ESC OFF
INDICATOR LIGHTThe “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” in the instrument cluster will come on
when the ignition switch is turned to the ON
position. It should go out with the engine
running. If the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” comes on continuously with the engine running,
a malfunction has been detected in the ESC system. If
this light remains on after several ignition cycles, and
the vehicle has been driven several kilometers at
speeds greater than 48 km/h, see your authorized
dealer as soon as possible to have the problem diag-
nosed and corrected.
The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” (lo-
cated in the instrument cluster) starts to flash as soon
as the tires lose traction and the ESC system becomes
active. The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” also flashes when TCS is active. If the “ESC
Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” begins to flash
during acceleration, ease up on the accelerator and
apply as little throttle as possible. Be sure to adapt your
speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions. NOTE:
• The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light”
and the “ESC OFF Indicator Light” come on momen-
tarily each time the ignition switch is turned ON.
• Each time the ignition is turned ON, the ESC system will be ON even if it was turned off previously.
• The ESC system will make buzzing or clicking sounds when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop
when ESC becomes inactive following the maneuver
that caused the ESC activation.
The “ESC OFF Indicator Light” indicates the
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is in Partial
OFF mode.
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
The HSA system is designed to assist the driver when
starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill. HSA will
maintain the level of brake pressure the driver applied
for a short period of time after the driver takes their
foot off of the brake pedal. If the driver does not apply
the throttle during this short period of time, the
system will release brake pressure and the vehicle will
roll down the hill. The system will release brake pres-
sure in proportion to the amount of throttle applied as
the vehicle starts to move in the intended direction of
travel.
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