ABS FIAT 500 2019 Owner handbook (in English)

USE OF THE OWNER HANDBOOK
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Each time direction instructions (left/right or forwards/backwards) about the vehicle are given, these must be intended as
regarding an occupant in the driver's seat. Special cases not complying with this rule will be specified as appropriate in the text.
The figures in the Owner Handbook are provided by way of example only: this might imply that some details of the image do
not correspond to the actual arrangement of your car. In addition, the Handbook has been conceived considering vehicles with
steering wheel on the left side; it is therefore possible that on vehicles with steering wheel on the right side, the position or
construction of some controls is not exactly mirror-like with respect to the figure.
To identify the chapter with the information needed you can consult the index at the end of this Owner Handbook.
Chapters can be rapidly identified with dedicated graphic tabs, at the side of each odd page. A few pages further there is a key
for getting to know the chapter order and the relevant symbols in the tabs. There is in any case a textual indication of the
current chapter at the side of each even page.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
While reading this Owner Handbook you will find a series ofWARNINGSto prevent procedures that could damage your
vehicle.
There are alsoPRECAUTIONSthat must be carefully followed to prevent incorrect use of the components of the vehicle,
which could cause accidents or injuries.
Therefore allWARNINGSandPRECAUTIONSmust always be carefully followed.
WARNINGSandPRECAUTIONSare recalled in the text with the following symbols:
personal safety;
vehicle safety;
environmental protection.
NOTE These symbols, when necessary, are indicated besides the title or at the end of the line and are followed by a number.
That number recalls the corresponding warning at the end of the relevant section.
SYMBOLS
Some car components have coloured labels whose symbols indicate precautions to be observed when using this component.
A plate summarising these symbols can also be found under the bonnet.

STEERING LOCK
5)
Engagement:when the key is in
position STOP, remove the key and turn
the steering wheel until it is locked.
Disengagement:move the steering
wheel slightly as you turn the ignition
key to MAR.
WARNING
2)If the ignition device has been tampered
with (e.g. an attempted theft), have it
checked by a Fiat Dealership before driving
again.
3)Always remove the key when you leave
your car to prevent someone from
accidentally operating the controls.
Remember to engage the handbrake.
Engage first gear if the vehicle is parked
uphill or reverse if the vehicle is parked
downhill. Never leave children unattended
in the vehicle.
4)Never remove the key while the car is
moving. The steering wheel would
automatically lock as soon as you try to
turn it. This holds true for cars being towed
as well.
5)It is absolutely forbidden to carry out any
after-market operation involving steering
system or steering column modifications
(e.g. installation of anti-theft device) that
could adversely affect performance and
safety, invalidate the warranty and also
result in the car not meeting type-approval
requirements.
THE FIAT CODE
SYSTEM
This is an electronic engine locking
system which increases protection
against attempted thefts of the car. It is
automatically activated when the
ignition key is removed.
Each time the vehicle is started by
turning the ignition key to MAR, the Fiat
CODE system control unit sends a
recognition code to the Powertrain
Control Module to deactivate the
immobiliser.
If, during starting, the code has not
been correctly recognised, the
warning light switches on in the
instrument panel; on some versions a
symbol is shown on the display instead.
In this case, turn the key to STOP and
then to MAR; if it is still locked, try again
with the other keys that come with the
car. Contact a Fiat Dealership if you
still cannot start the engine.
IMPORTANT Each key has its own
code which must be stored by the
system's control unit. Contact a Fiat
Dealership to have new keys (up to 8)
stored with a code.
DOORS
6)
2)
OPENING/CLOSING WITH
KEY
To open from outside (driver's side
door):rotate the key to 1 fig. 7 and
pull the handle.
On versions with central locking, when
the key is turned, the doors and the
tailgate are simultaneously unlocked.
To lock from outside:with driver's
side door completely closed, turn
the key to position 2 fig. 7.
It is possible to lock the passenger side
door only from inside bringing the
handle to position 2 fig. 8.
7F0S0099
12
KNOWING YOUR CAR

WARNING
11)All adjustments must be carried out
only with the car stationary and engine off.
Head restraints must be adjusted so that
the head, rather than the neck, rests on
them. Only in this case they can protect
your head correctly.
12)To make the best use of the head
restraint's protective action, adjust the
backrest so that you are sitting upright and
keep your head as close as possible to
the head restraint.
STEERING WHEEL
13) 14)
The steering wheel can be adjusted
vertically.
To adjust, move lever A fig. 15
downwards to position 2, then adjust
the steering wheel to the most suitable
position and lock it in position by
moving lever A to position 1.
WARNING
13)All adjustments must be carried out
only with the car stationary and engine off.
14)It is absolutely forbidden to carry out
any after-market operation involving
steering system or steering column
modifications (e.g. installation of anti-theft
device) that could adversely affect
performance and safety, invalidate the
warranty and also result in the car not
meeting type-approval requirements.
REAR VIEW
MIRRORS
INTERNAL MIRROR
The mirror is fitted with a safety device
that causes its release in the event of
a violent impact with the passenger.
Lever A fig. 16 can be used to move
the mirror to two different positions:
normal or antiglare.
ELECTROCHROMIC
INTERIOR MIRROR
(for versions/markets, where provided)
Some versions have an electrochromic
mirror with automatic antiglare function.
There is an ON/OFF button on the
lower part of the mirror for
activating/deactivating the
electrochromic function. When the
function is active, a LED on the mirror is
active. When reverse gear is engaged,
the mirror is automatically set for
daytime use
15F0S056716F0S0019
16
KNOWING YOUR CAR

WARNING
25)The system operates at temperatures
ranging between −20°C and 100°C.
26)The car is equipped with a gaseous
LPG injection system designed specifically
for it: it is therefore absolutely forbidden
to alter the configuration of the system or
its components. The use of other
components or materials could cause
malfunctions and lead to a reduction in
safety; therefore, in the case of problems,
contact a Fiat Dealership. To prevent
damage to the gas system parts when
towing or raising the vehicle, follow the
instructions in the "Towing the vehicle"
paragraph of the Owner Handbook.
27)When painting in an oven, the LPG
tank must be removed from the car and
later refitted by a Fiat Dealership. Although
the LPG system has numerous safety
features, it is advisable to proceed
as follows every time the vehicle is not in
use for a long period or moved in an
emergency as a result of a breakdown or
accident: unscrew the fastening devices A
fig. 41, then remove the cover B. Close
the LPG cock rotating the ring nut C
clockwise fig. 42; refit the cover and tighten
the fixing devices.28)Periodically (at least once every six
months), it is advisable to let the LPG in the
tank run out and, at the next refuelling,
check that it does not exceed the
maximum capacity of 30.5 litres (reserve
included) (with a tolerance of 2 litres
excess) (see instructions in the "Capacities"
paragraph). If the level is above 30.5 litres
(reserve included) contact a Fiat Dealership
immediately.
29)In particular usage conditions, such as
starting and operation at low ambient
temperature or LPG supply with low
propane content, the system may switch
temporarily to petrol operation, without
a visual indication of switching on the
selector. If the level of LPG in the tank is
low or there is a request for high
performance (e.g. overtaking, car fully
laden, steep hills): the system can
automatically switch to petrol operation to
guarantee the required engine
performance; in this event, the performed
switching is shown by the orange (petrol)
LED lit and the green (LPG) LED off on the
switch. When the above conditions stop,
the system automatically restores the LPG
operation; the orange (petrol) LED turns
off and the green (LPG) LED is lit on the
switch. To achieve the automatic switching
described above, make sure that there is
always enough fuel in the petrol tank.
30)It is strictly forbidden to use any
additive in the LPG.
38
KNOWING YOUR CAR

Warning light What it means
yellowFIAT CODE SYSTEM FAILURE
With the key in the MAR position, on some versions the warning light, or the symbol on the display, turns
on continuously, along with a dedicated message on the display, to signal a possible Fiat CODE system
failure.
If the warning light or symbol blinks on the display with engine running, it means that the vehicle is not
protected by the engine immobiliser device.
In this case, contact a Fiat Dealership as soon as possible.
yellowFUEL RESERVE - LIMITED RANGE
The warning light switches on when the ignition key is turned to MAR, but it should switch off after a few
seconds.
The warning light or the symbol switches on in the display when about 5 litres of fuel are left in the tank.
The triangle on the right side of the symbol indicates the side of the car with the fuel filler.
IMPORTANT If the warning light flashes or the symbol is constantly on, depending on the versions, there is
a fault in the system. If this is the case, go to a Fiat Dealership to have the system checked.
yellowREAR FOG LIGHT
The warning light switches on when the rear fog light is activated.
yellowABS FAILURE
The warning light switches on when the ignition key is turned to MAR, but it should switch off after a few
seconds.
The warning light comes on, on some versions along with a message on the display, when the system is
inefficient or not available. In this case the braking system maintains its efficiency unaltered but without the
advantage of the ABS system.
Drive carefully and contact a Fiat Dealership as soon as possible.
54
KNOWING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL

ACTIVE SAFETY
SYSTEMS
The vehicle has the following active
safety systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System);
EBD (Electronic Brake force
Distribution);
MSR (Motor Schleppmoment
Regelung);
ESC (Electronic Stability Control);
HH (Hill Holder);
ASR (Antislip Regulation);
HBA (Hydraulic Brake Assist);
For the operation of the systems, see
the following description.
ABS (Anti-lock Braking
System)
This system, which is an integral part of
the braking system, prevents one or
more wheels from locking and slipping
in any road surface condition,
irrespective of the intensity of the
braking action, ensuring that the car
can be controlled even during
emergency braking thus optimising
stopping distances.
The system intervenes during braking
when the wheels are about to lock,
typically in emergency braking or
low-grip conditions, when locking may
be more frequent.The system also improves control and
stability of the car when braking on a
surface where the grip of the left and
right wheels varies, or on corners.
System intervention
A slight pulsing of the brake pedal and
noise indicates the intervention of the
ABS: this is completely normal when
the system intervenes.
49) 50) 51) 52) 53) 54) 55) 56) 57)
EBD (Electronic
Brakeforce Distribution)
SYSTEM
This system (which cannot be
deactivated) recognises emergency
braking conditions according to the
speed of operation of the brake pedal
and provides an additional hydraulic
braking pressure to support that
provided by the driver. This allows
faster and more powerful operation of
the braking system.MSR (Motor
Schleppmoment
Regelung) SYSTEM
The MSR system is an integral part of
the ABS, that intervenes, if there is a
sudden change to a lower gear,
restoring torque to the engine, thereby
preventing excessive drive at the drive
wheels which, especially in poor grip
conditions, could lead to a loss in
stability of the vehicle.
ESC (Electronic Stability
Control) SYSTEM
This is an electronic system that
controls vehicle stability in the event of
tyre grip loss, helping maintain
directional control.
The system is capable of recognising
potentially dangerous situations in
terms of the stability and intervenes
automatically on the brakes in a
differentiated manner for the four
wheels in order to provide a stabilising
torque.
The ESC system switches on
automatically when the engine is
started and cannot be switched off.
System intervention
This is indicated by the flashing of the
warning light
on the instrument
panel, to inform the driver that the car is
in critical stability and grip conditions.
68
SAFETY

Manual engagement/release
The ASR comes on automatically
whenever the engine is started. While
driving, the ASR can be turned off
and then on again by pressing
the button A fig. 50 (ASR OFF). When
the system is not active, the LED on the
same button turns on and, on some
versions, a message appears on the
display.
If the ASR is disengaged during driving,
this is automatically reactivated at the
following car starting.
When travelling on snowy roads with
snow chains, it may be helpful to turn
the ASR off: in fact, in these conditions,
the driving wheels skidding when
moving off gives you better traction.
66) 67) 68) 69) 70) 71)
HBA (Hydraulic Brake
Assist) SYSTEM
It is an integral part of the ESC system.
The HBA system is designed to
improve the car’s braking capacity
during emergency braking.
The system detects an emergency
braking by monitoring the speed and
strength with which the brake pedal
is pressed, thereby applying the optimal
brake pressure. This can reduce the
braking distance: the HBA system
therefore completes the ABS.
Maximum assistance of the HBA
system is obtained pressing the brake
pedal very quickly; in addition, the
brake pedal should be pressed
continuously during braking, avoiding
intermittent presses, to obtain benefits
from the system.
Do not reduce pressure on the brake
pedal until braking is no longer
necessary.
The HBA system is deactivated when
the brake pedal is released.
72) 73) 74) 75) 76)
WARNING
49)When the ABS intervenes and you feel
the brake pedal pulsating, do not reduce
the pressure, but hold it down firmly and
confidently; in doing so you will brake
in the shortest distance possible,
depending on the current road conditions.
50)To obtain the maximum efficiency of
the braking system, a bedding-in period of
about 500 km is needed: during this period
it is better to avoid sharp, repeated and
prolonged braking.
51)If the ABS system intervenes, this
indicates that the traction of the tyres on
the road is about to reach its limit. You
must slow down to a speed compatible
with the available traction.
52)The ABS cannot overrule the natural
laws of physics, and cannot increase
the grip available according to the
condition of the road.
53)The ABS cannot prevent accidents,
including those due to excessive speed on
corners, driving on low-grip surfaces or
aquaplaning.
54)The capability of the ABS must never
be tested irresponsibly and dangerously, in
such a way as to compromise personal
safety and the safety of others.
55)For the correct operation of the ABS,
the tyres must of necessity be the same
make and type on all wheels, in perfect
condition and, above all, of the prescribed
type and dimensions.
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SAFETY

56)If the space-saver wheel (where
provided) is used, the ABS system keeps
operating. Always remember that the
space-saver wheel, being smaller than the
original wheel, provides less grip.
57)The ABS gets the most from the
available grip, but it cannot improve it; you
should therefore take every care when
driving on slippery surfaces and not take
unnecessary risks.
58)For the correct operation of the ESC
system, the tyres must necessarily be
of the same make and type on all wheels,
in perfect condition and, above all, of
the prescribed type and size.
59)The ESC functions even when the
space-saver wheel is being used. Always
remember that the space-saver wheel,
being smaller than the original wheel,
provides less grip.
60)ESC performance features must not
induce the driver to take unnecessary
or unfounded risks. Your driving style must
always be suited to the road conditions,
visibility and traffic. The driver is always
responsible for road safety.
61)The ESC system cannot alter the
natural laws of physics, and cannot
increase grip, which depends on the
condition of the road.
62)The ESC system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
63)The capability of the ESC system must
never be tested irresponsibly and
dangerously, in such a way as to
compromise personal safety and the safety
of others.64)The HH system is not a parking brake,
therefore do not leave the vehicle without
activating the handbrake, switching off
the engine, and engaging first gear, with
the vehicle parked in safe conditions.
65)There may be situations on small
gradients (less than 8%), with car laden or
a trailer attached to it (where provided),
in which the HH system may not activate,
causing a slight reversing motion and
increasing the risk of collision with another
vehicle or object. The driver is, in any
case, responsible for safe driving.
66)For the correct operation of the ASR
system, it is essential that the tyres are
of the same make and type on all wheels,
in perfect condition and, above all, of
the specified type and dimensions.
67)If the space-saver wheel (where
provided) is used, the ASR system keeps
operating. Always remember that the
space-saver wheel, being smaller than the
original wheel, provides less grip.
68)The ASR cannot overrule the natural
laws of physics, and cannot increase
the grip available according to the
condition of the road.
69)The ASR system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
70)The capability of the ASR must never
be tested irresponsibly and dangerously, in
such a way as to compromise personal
safety and the safety of others.71)Do not take unnecessary risks, even if
your vehicle is fitted with an ASR system.
Your driving style must always be suited to
the road conditions, visibility and traffic.
The driver is always responsible for road
safety.
72)The HBA system cannot increase tyre
grip on the road over the limits imposed by
laws of physics: always drive carefully
according to the conditions of the road
surface.
73)The HBA system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on bends, travelling on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
74)The HBA system is an aid for the driver,
who must always pay full attention while
driving. The responsibility always rests with
the driver.
75)The capability of the HBA system must
never be tested irresponsibly and
dangerously in such a way as to
compromise the safety of the driver,
occupants or other road users.
76)When the HBA system intervenes,
noises may be heard from the system. This
is normal. In any case, while braking keep
the brake pedal firmly depressed.
71

STARTING THE
ENGINE
121) 122)
36) 37) 39) 40)
Before starting the engine, adjust the
seat, the interior rear view mirrors,
the door mirrors and fasten the seat
belt correctly.
Never press the accelerator pedal for
starting the engine.
The Start&Stop, ECO and AUTO
functions are activated automatically
whenever the engine is started.
PETROL VERSIONS
Starting the engine
Proceed as follows:
engage the handbrake and put the
gear lever in neutral;
fully depress the clutch pedal
without touching the accelerator;
turn the ignition key to AVV and
release it as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine does not start at the
first attempt, return the ignition key to
STOP before repeating the starting
procedure.If, when the ignition key is at MAR, the
instrument panel warning light or the
symbol
remains lit together with
warning light
turn the key to STOP
and then back to MAR. If the warning
light remains on, try with the other keys
provided with the car.
Contact a Fiat Dealership if you still
cannot start the engine.
VERSIONS WITH
DUALOGIC
TRANSMISSION
123)
The system allows the engine to be
started both with a gear engaged and
with the transmission in neutral (N).
However, the brake pedal must always
be pressed first if neutral is not
engaged. It is therefore advisable to
position the gear lever at N before
starting the engine.
LPG VERSIONS
The engine always starts up on petrol
independently of the previously
selected mode.
38)
WARNING
121)It is dangerous to run the engine in
enclosed areas. The engine consumes
oxygen and engine exhaust contains
carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and
other toxic gasses.
122)Remember that the brake servo and
electrical power steering system are not
operational until the engine is started,
therefore a greater effort will be required to
press the brake pedal or turn the steering
wheel.
123)If the engine fails to start with a gear
engaged, the potentially dangerous
situation due to the fact that the gearbox is
automatically placed in neutral will be
signalled by an acoustic signal.
WARNING
36)It is advisable not to demand maximum
performance from your car (e.g. excessive
acceleration, long distances at maximum
rpm, excessively intense braking, etc.)
when it is first used.
37)When the engine is switched off never
leave the key turned to MAR to prevent
useless current absorption from draining
the battery.
38)There must therefore always be
enough petrol in the tank to protect the
petrol pump and to guarantee temporary
switching from LPG to petrol operation.
97

WARNING
42)Avoid keeping your hand placed on this
lever in between gear changes or
Auto/Manual mode.
43)Using the paddles incorrectly (paddles
pushed towards the dashboard) could
break them.
44)If the transmission is faulty, contact a
Fiat Dealership as soon as possible to have
the system checked.
45)Using the paddles incorrectly (paddles
pushed towards the dashboard) could
break them.
DUALDRIVE
ELECTRIC POWER
STEERING
(for versions/markets, where provided)
Turning on/off (CITY function)
Press button A fig. 78 to turn the
function on/off.
When the function is active, the CITY
text on the display turns on.
When the CITY function is on, the
steering wheel effort is lighter, making
parking easier: therefore, this function is
particularly useful for driving in city
centres.
To deactivate the function press the
button again.
128) 129)
ECO FUNCTION
(for versions/markets, where provided)
With the ignition key at MAR, press
button ECO B fig. 78 to activate the
function. The word ECO on the display
will light up or, according to the version,
a dedicated screen will be displayed.
When the function is activated,
the car is set for city driving,
characterised by less effort on the
steering wheel (Dualdrive system on)
and reduced fuel consumption.
Press the button again to deactivate
the function.
This function is not stored, so the
system will restart with the function on
when the engine is restarted.
WARNING
128)It is absolutely forbidden to carry out
any after-market operation involving
steering system or steering column
modifications (e.g. installation of anti-theft
device) that could adversely affect
performance and safety, invalidate the
warranty and also result in the car not
meeting type-approval requirements.
78F0S0650
101