traction control FIAT 500 ABARTH 2014 2.G User Guide

- Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Light
•This light informs you of a problem with the Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system.
• If a problem is detected, the light will come on while the engine is running. Cycle
the ignition when the vehicle has completely stopped; the light should turn off.
• If the light remains lit with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable;
however, see an authorized service center immediately. If the light is flashing
when the engine is running, immediate service is required and you may experi-
ence reduced performance, an elevated/rough idle or engine stall and your ve-
hicle may require towing.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) OFF Indicator Light
• This light indicates the ESC system has been turned off by the driver.
Partial Off
This mode is entered by momentarily pressing the ESC Off switch. This mode is intended
for times when a more spirited driving experience is desired. It is also intended for driving
in deep snow, sand or gravel conditions, when more wheel spin than ESC would nor-
mally allow is required to gain traction. To turn ESC on again, momentarily press the
switch again. This will restore the normal ESC On mode of operation.
Full Off
This mode is intended for off-highway or off-road use only and should not be used on
public roadways. In this mode, all TCS and ESC stability features are turned OFF, ex-
cept for the limited slip feature described in the TCS section. To enter the “Full Off”
mode, depress and hold the ESC OFF switch for five seconds. After five seconds, the
ESC OFF Indicator Light will illuminate, and the “ESC OFF” message will display in the
EVIC. To turn ESC ON again, momentarily press the ESC OFF switch.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Activation / Malfunction
Indicator Light
• The “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster will
come on for four seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the ON/RUN posi-
tion. 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, see your authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the
problem diagnosed and corrected.
NOTE:
• The “ESC Off Indicator Light” and the “ESC Activation/Malfunction Indicator
Light” come on momentarily each time the ignition switch is turned to ON/RUN.
• Each time the ignition is turned to ON/RUN, the ESC system will be ON even if it
was turned off previously.
• ESC Activation/Malfunction Light can blink during a ESC or TC intervention.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
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FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE
• If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, sand or snow, it can often be moved by a
rocking motion. Turn your steering wheel right and left to clear the area around
the front wheels. Then shift back and forth between 1st gear and REVERSE. Us-
ing minimal accelerator pedal pressure to maintain the rocking motion, without
spinning the wheels, is most effective.
NOTE:If your vehicle is equipped with Traction Control or Electronic Stability Control (ESC), turnthe system OFF before attempting to “rock” the vehicle.
CAUTION!
• Racing the engine or spinning the wheels may lead to transmission overheat-
ing and failure. Allow the engine to idle with the shift lever in NEUTRAL for at
least one minute after every five rocking-motion cycles. This will minimize
overheating and reduce the risk of transmission failure during prolonged ef-
forts to free a stuck vehicle.
• When “rocking” a stuck vehicle by moving between 1st and REVERSE, do
not spin the wheels faster than 15 mph (24 km/h), or drivetrain damage may
result.
• Revving the engine or spinning the wheels too fast may lead to transmission
overheating and failure. It can also damage the tires. Do not spin the wheels
above 30 mph (48 km/h) while in gear (no transmission shifting occurring).
WARNING!
Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces generated by excessive wheel
speeds may cause tire damage or failure. A tire could explode and injure some-
one. Do not spin your vehicle's wheels faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) when you
are stuck. Do not let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
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SUMMER/THREE-SEASON TIRES
• This vehicle may be equipped with wheels and tires to enhance traction in both
wet and dry conditions.
• Summer tires are not intended to be driven in snow or on ice.
• Use summer tires only in sets of four.
NOTE:
Summer tires will not contain the “all season” designation or mountain/snowflake
symbol on the sidewall of the tire.
WARNING!
Do not use summer tires in snow/ice conditions. You could lose control, resulting
in severe injury or death.
WHEEL AND WHEEL TRIM CARE
• All wheels and wheel trim, especially aluminum and chrome plated wheels,
should be cleaned regularly with a mild soap and water to prevent corrosion.
• To remove heavy soil and/or excessive brake dust, use a wheel cleaner or
equivalent or select a non-abrasive, non-acidic cleaner.
CAUTION!
Do not use scouring pads, steel wool, a bristle brush, or metal polishes. Do not
use oven cleaner. These products may damage the wheel's protective finish.
Avoid automatic car washes that use acidic solutions or harsh brushes that may
damage the wheel's protective finish.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
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