towing FIAT 500L 2015 2.G User Guide

INTRODUCTION/WELCOMEWELCOME FROM FIAT...............2
CONTROLS AT A GLANCEDRIVER COCKPIT..................4INSTRUMENT CLUSTER...............6
GETTING STARTEDKEY FOB.......................8VEHICLE SECURITY ALARM............9POWER DOOR LOCKS...............9SEAT BELT SYSTEMS................11SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) —AIR BAGS......................12CHILD RESTRAINTS................15HEAD RESTRAINTS.................19FRONT SEATS....................22REAR SEATS.....................23HEATED SEATS...................24TILT/TELESCOPING STEERING COLUMN...25
OPERATING YOUR VEHICLEENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS...26TURN SIGNAL/LIGHTS/HIGH BEAM LEVER...26WIPER/WASHER LEVER..............28ELECTRONIC SPEED CONTROL.........29MANUAL CLIMATE CONTROLS.........31AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROLS(ATC).........................32REAR PARK ASSIST.................33POWER SUNROOF.................33EURO TWIN CLUTCH SIX-SPEEDTRANSMISSION...................34ADDING FUEL...................37ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)...38
ELECTRONICSYO U R V E H I C L E ' S S O U N D S YS T E M.......40IDENTIFYING YOUR RADIO............42Uconnect® 5.0...................43Uconnect® 6.5N..................55Uconnect® PHONE.................74STEERING WHEEL AUDIO CONTROLS.....84ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATIONCENTER (EVIC)...................84PROGRAMMABLE FEATURES...........85UNIVERSAL GARAGE DOOR OPENER(HomeLink®)....................86POWER INVERTER — IF EQUIPPED.......88
POWER OUTLET..................89
UTILITY
TRAILER TOWING.................90RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHINDMOTORHOME, ETC.)...............90
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE..............92INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WARNING LIGHTS..92INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INDICATOR LIGHTS..96IF YOUR ENGINE OVERHEATS..........98JACKING AND TIRE CHANGING.........99TIRE SERVICE KIT.................107JUMP-STARTING PROCEDURE..........113SHIFT LEVER OVERRIDE.............116TOW I N G A D I S A B L E D V E H I C L E.........116FREEING A STUCK VEHICLE...........118EVENT DATA RECORDER (EDR)........120CAP-LESS FUEL FILL FUNNEL..........120
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLEOPENING THE HOOD..............121ENGINE COMPARTMENT............122FLUID CAPACITIES................124FLUIDS, LUBRICANTS AND GENUINEPA RT S.......................124MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES.........126MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE...........126FUSES........................130TIRE PRESSURES.................133SPARE TIRES — IF EQUIPPED..........134WHEEL AND WHEEL TRIM CARE.......135REPLACEMENT BULBS..............136
CONSUMER ASSISTANCEFIAT CUSTOMER CENTER............137FIAT CANADA CUSTOMER CENTER......137ASSISTANCE FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED..137PUBLICATIONS ORDERING...........137REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS IN THEUNITED STATES..................138
MOPAR ACCESSORIESAUTHENTIC ACCESSORIES BY MOPAR®...139
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.......140
INDEX......................141
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1

TRAILER TOWING
•Trailer towing with this vehicle is not recommended.
RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)
Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle
Towing Condi-tionWheels OFF theGroundManual Trans-mission
Euro TwinClutch Transmis-sion
AutomaticTransmission(Aisin F21-250HD Transmis-sion )
Flat Tow NONETransmission inNEUTRALTransmission inNEUTRALNOTALLOWED
Dolly Tow
Front OK OK OK
RearNOTALLOWEDNOTALLOWEDNOTALLOWED
On Trailer ALL OK OK OK
NOTE:
When recreationally towing your vehicle, always follow applicable state and provincial
laws.Contact state and provincial Highway Safety offices for additional details.
This vehicle may be towed on a flatbed or vehicle trailer provided all four wheels are
OFF the ground.
This vehicle may also be towed using a tow dolly (with the front wheels OFF the
ground).
Vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, or a Euro Twin Clutch transmission, may be
flat towed (with all four wheels on the ground) at any legal highway speed, for any dis-
tance, if the transmission is in NEUTRAL.
UTILITY
90

To place the Euro Twin Clutch transmission in NEUTRAL, follow the procedure below:
1.Turn the key to the ON/RUN position, without starting the engine.
2.Press the brake pedal and shift the transmission to NEUTRAL.
3.Turn the key to the OFF position.The key will remain in the ignition switch (it cannot
be removed, since the transmission is not in PARK).Leave the key in the OFF position
while being towed.
4.Release the brake pedal only when the parking brake is applied, or the vehicle is se-
curely connected to a tow vehicle.
CAUTION!
•DO NOT flat tow any vehicle equipped with a conventional automatic transmis-
sion.Damage to the drivetrain will result.If these vehicles require towing, make
sure all drive wheels are OFF the ground.
•Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe trans-
mission damage.Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
UTILITY
91

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE
•If your FIAT 500L requires jump start assistance, out of gas/fuel delivery, tire service,
lockout service or towing due to a defect covered under the Basic Limited Warranty,
dial toll-free 1-888-242-6342 or 1-800-363-4869 for Canadian Residents.See your
Warranty booklet for further details.
•Provide your name, vehicle identification number and license plate number.
•Provide your location, including telephone number, from which you are calling.
•Briefly describe the nature of the problem and answer a few simple questions.
•You will be given the name of the service provider and an estimated time of arrival.If
you feel you are in an “unsafe situation,” please let us know.With your consent, we will
contact local police or safety authorities.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER WARNING LIGHTS
- Low Fuel Warning Light
This warning light indicates when the fuel level reaches approximately 2.0 gal (7.8 L).This
light will turn on and a single chime will sound.
Charging System Light
This light shows the status of the electrical charging system.If the charging system light
remains on, it means that the vehicle is experiencing a problem with the charging system.
We recommend you do not continue driving if the charging system light is on.Have the
vehicle serviced immediately.
Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light indicates low engine oil pressure.If the light turns on while driving, stop the
vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible.A chime will sound when this light
turns on.
We recommend you do not operate the vehicle or engine damage will occur.Have the
vehicle serviced immediately.
Anti-Lock Brake (ABS) Light
This light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).
If the light is not on during starting, stays on or turns on while driving, we recommend
you contact the nearest authorized dealer and have the vehicle serviced immediately.
Air Bag Warning Light
If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving, have the vehicle
serviced by an authorized dealer immediately.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
92

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)/Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system.In this case, the
light will remain on until the condition has been corrected.If the problem is related to
the brake booster, the ABS pump will run when applying the brake, and a brake pedal
pulsation may be felt during each stop.
The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity in the event of a failure to a
portion of the hydraulic system.A leak in either half of the dual brake system is indicated
by the Brake Warning Light, which will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master
cylinder has dropped below a specified level.The light will remain on until the cause is
corrected.
Vehicles equipped with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) are also equipped with Elec-
tronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning
Light will turn on along with the ABS Light.Immediate repair to the ABS system is re-
quired.
Operation of the Brake Warning Light can be checked by turning the ignition switch from
the OFF position to the ON/RUN position.The light should illuminate for approximately
two seconds.The light should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake
fault is detected.If the light does not illuminate, have the light inspected by an authorized
dealer.
The light also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in
the ON/RUN position.
NOTE:
This light shows only that the parking brake is applied.It does not show the degree of
brake application.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the red brake light on is dangerous.Part of the brake system
may have failed.It will take longer to stop the vehicle.You could have a collision.Have
the vehicle checked immediately.
- Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
Certain conditions, such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc., may illumi-
nate the MIL after engine start.The vehicle should be serviced if the light stays on
through several typical driving cycles.In most situations, the vehicle will drive normally and
not require towing.
If the MIL flashes when the engine is running, serious conditions may exist that could lead
to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage.We recommend you
do not operate the vehicle.Have the vehicle serviced immediately.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
95

- 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 position.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 au-
thorized 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.
- Generic Warning Light
The Generic Warning Light will illuminate if any of the following conditions occur: Oil
Change Request, Engine Oil Pressure Sensor Failure, External Light Failure, Fuel Cut-Off
Not Available, Parking Sensor Failure, DST System Failure.
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Indicator Light
This light informs you of a problem with the 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 and the shift lever is placed in the
PARK position; the light should turn off.
If the light remains lit with the engine running, your vehicle will usually be drivable.How-
ever, see an authorized dealer immediately.If the light is flashing when the engine is run-
ning, immediate service is required, and you may experience reduced performance, an
elevated/rough idle or engine stall, and your vehicle may require towing.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INDICATOR LIGHTS
Turn Signal Indicator
The arrows will flash with the exterior turn signals when the turn signal lever is oper-
ated.A tone will chime, and a EVIC message will appear if either turn signal is left on for
more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
NOTE:
If either indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective outside light bulb.
High Beam Indicator
Indicates that headlights are on high beam.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
96

SHIFT LEVER OVERRIDE
•If a malfunction occurs and the shift lever cannot be moved out of the PARK position,
you can use the following procedure to temporarily move the shift lever:
•Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
•Firmly set the parking brake.
•Remove the rubber storage tray liner from the center console, then lift up the front
of the shift lever bezel, carefully disengage the bezel from the shift lever housing, and
slide it up to the top of the shift lever.
•Push and maintain firm pressure on the brake pedal.
•Insert a small screwdriver or similar tool down into the access slot at the right rear
corner of the shift lever assembly, and push and hold the white override release lever
down.
•Move the shift lever into the NEUTRAL position.
•The vehicle may then be started in NEUTRAL.
•Reinstall the shift lever bezel (use care to avoid pinching the wiring), and the rubber
storage tray liner.
TOWING A DISABLED VEHICLE
NOTE:
This section describes procedures for towing a disabled vehicle using a commercial towing
service.
Towing Condi-
tion
WheelsOFF
The Ground
MANUAL
TRANSMIS-
SION
EURO TWIN
CLUTCH
TRANSMIS-
SION
AUTOMATIC
(AISIN HD)
TRANSMIS-
SION
Flat Tow NONETrans inNEUTRALTrans inNEUTRAL
NOT
ALLOWED
Dolly TowRearNOT
ALLOWED
NOT
ALLOWED
NOT
ALLOWED
FrontOK OK OK
FlatbedALLBEST
METHOD
BEST
METHOD
BEST
METHOD
Proper towing or lifting equipment is required to prevent damage to your vehicle.Use
only tow bars and other equipment designed for this purpose, following equipment
manufacturer’s instructions.Use of safety chains is mandatory.Attach a tow bar or other
towing device to main structural members of the vehicle, not to bumpers or associated
brackets.State and local laws regarding vehicles under tow must be observed.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
116

CAUTION!
•Do not use sling-type equipment when towing.Vehicle damage may occur.
•When securing the vehicle to a flatbed truck, do not attach to front or rear sus-
pension components.Damage to your vehicle may result from improper towing.
If you must use the accessories (wipers, defroster, etc.) while being towed, the key must
be in the ON/RUN position.
Manual Transmission
•Vehicle can be flat towed (all four wheels on the ground) with the transmission in
NEUTRAL.
•Vehicle can be towed with the front wheels elevated.
•Vehicle can be towed on a flatbed truck (all wheels off the ground).
CAUTION!
Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe engine
and/or transmission damage.Damage from improper towing is not covered under the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Euro Twin Clutch Transmission
•Vehicle can be flat towed (all four wheels on the ground) with the transmission in
NEUTRAL.
•Vehicle can be towed with the front wheels elevated.
•Vehicle can be towed on a flatbed truck (all wheels off the ground).
If the ignition key is unavailable, or the vehicle's battery is discharged, refer to "Shift Lever
Override" in this section for instructions on shifting the transmission out of PARK for
towing.
CAUTION!
•Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe trans-
mission damage.Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
117

Automatic Transmission
•Vehicle can be towed with the front wheels elevated.
•Vehicle can be towed on a flatbed truck (all wheels off the ground).
If the ignition key is unavailable, or the battery is discharged, refer to “Shift Lever Over-
ride” in this section for instructions on shifting the transmission out of PARK in order to
move the vehicle.
CAUTION!
•DO NOT
flat tow any vehicle equipped with a conventional automatic transmission.Damage
to the drivetrain will result.If these vehicles require towing, make sure all drive
wheels are OFF the ground.
•Towing this vehicle in violation of the above requirements can cause severe trans-
mission damage.Damage from improper towing is not covered under the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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 DRIVE/2nd gear and REVERSE.Using 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),
turn the system OFF before attempting to “rock” the vehicle.
WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES
118

Maintenance ChartMileage or time passed (whichever comes
first)
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
90,000
100,000
110,000
120,000
130,000
140,000
150,000
Or Years: 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Or Kilometers:
32,000
48,000
64,000
80,000
96,000
112,000
128,000
144,000
160,000
176,000
192,000
208,000
224,000
240,000
Additional Inspections
Inspect the CV joints
.
XX X X X
Inspect front suspension, tie rod ends andboot seals, and replace if necessary
.
XXX X X X X
Inspect the brake linings, parking brake func-tion
.
XXX X X X X
Additional MaintenanceReplace engine air filter
.
XX X X X
Replace cabin air filter
.
XXX X X X X
Replace Brake Fluid every two years X X X X X X XClean and lube sun roof tracks
.
XX XX X X X X X X X X X X
Replace spark plugs
.** X X X X X
Change the transmission fluid (manual, orEuro Twin Clutch) if using your vehicle forany of the following: trailer towing, heavyloading, taxi, police, delivery service (com-mercial service), off-road, desert operationor more than 50% of your driving is at sus-tained speeds during hot weather, above90°F (32°C)
.
XX X
Flush and replace the engine coolant at 10years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) which-ever comes first
.
XX
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
128