tow FIAT 500L 2019 Owner handbook (in English)

SBR (Seat Belt
Reminder) SYSTEM
This system consists of a device which
by means of the warning light
on
the instrument panel displayfig. 66,
warns the driver and front passenger if
their seat belts have not been fastened.
When the ignition key is turned to
MAR, the warning light
comes on for
a few seconds to indicate the warning
light is operating correctly.
The warning light is switched off if the
driver and passenger seat belt (the
latter, if present) are correctly fastened.
To deactivate the acoustic warning
permanently go to a Fiat Dealership.
The acoustic warning can be
reactivated at any time through the
display Setup Menu.DRIVER
If the driver is the only occupant and
the seat belt is not fastened, when 20
km/h is exceeded or when travelling
at a speed from 10 to 20 km/h for
longer than 5 seconds, a buzzer
sequence will be started for the front
seats (intermittent acoustic warning
lasting for approximately 105 seconds).
The warning lightwill flash.
At the end of the cycle, the warning
lights stays on with fixed light and the
engine is stopped. The acoustic signal
is interrupted immediately when the
driver and passenger seat belt is
fastened.
If the seat belt is unfastened again
when driving the car, the acoustic signal
and the flashing warning light resume
as described previously.
PASSENGER
A similar solution applies for the
passenger, but the indication is
interrupted when the passenger leaves
the car as well.
It both front seat belts are unfastened
while the car is travelling a few seconds
apart, the acoustic warning and the
warning light will refer to the most
recent event.
PRE-TENSIONERS
64) 65) 66) 67)37)
The car is equipped with front seat belt
pretensioners, which draw back the
seat belts by several centimetres in the
event of a severe frontal collision. This
guarantees the perfect adherence of
the seat belts to the occupant's bodies
before the retention action begins.
It is evident that the pretensioners have
been activated when the belt withdraws
toward the retractor.
This car is also equipped with a second
pretensioner (fitted in the kick plate
area). Its activation is signalled by the
shortening of the metal cable.
A slight discharge of smoke may be
produced during the activation of the
pretensioner which is not harmful and
does not involve any fire hazard.
The pretensioner does not require any
maintenance or lubrication: any
changes to its original conditions will
invalidate its efficiency.
If, due to unusual natural events (floods,
sea storms, etc.), the device has been
affected by water and/or mud, contact
a Fiat Dealership to have it replaced.
IMPORTANT To obtain the highest
degree of protection from the action of
the pretensioner, wear the seat belt
tight to the chest and pelvis.
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SAFETY

STARTING AND DRIVING
Let’s get to the core of the vehicle:
seeing how you can exploit all of its
potential to the full.
We’ll look at how to drive it safely in any
situation, so that it can be a welcome
companion, with our comfort and
our wallets in mind.STARTING THE ENGINE .................103
WHEN PARKED ..............................104
HANDBRAKE ..................................104
USING THE MANUAL
TRANSMISSION .............................105
USING THE DUALOGIC
GEARBOX.......................................106
START&STOP SYSTEM ..................108
CRUISE CONTROL (CONSTANT
SPEED REGULATOR) .....................109
SPEED LIMITER ..............................110
MODE SELECTOR ..........................111
PARKING SENSORS.......................114
REAR BACKUP CAMERA
(PARKVIEW® REAR BACKUP
CAMERA) ........................................116
TOWING TRAILERS ........................117
REFUELLING THE VEHICLE ...........118
ADBLUE® (UREA) ADDITIVE FOR
DIESEL EMISSIONS ........................121
102
STARTING AND DRIVING

WARNING
38)The flashing of the warning lightfor
60 seconds after starting or during
prolonged cranking of the engine indicates
a fault with the glow plug heating system.
You can use the vehicle as usual if the
engine starts but you should contact a Fiat
Dealership as soon as possible.
39)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.
40)When the engine is switched off never
leave the key turned to MAR-ON to prevent
useless current absorption from draining
the battery.
41)Never, under any circumstances, jump
start the engine by pushing, towing or
coasting downhill. This could cause fuel to
flow into the catalytic converter and
damage it beyond repair.
42)A quick burst on the accelerator before
stopping the engine serves no practical
purpose; it wastes fuel and is especially
damaging to turbocharged engines.
WHEN PARKED
Always remove the ignition key when
leaving the car.
When parking and leaving the car,
proceed as follows:
engage a gear (1stgear if facing
uphill or reverse if facing downhill) and
leave the wheels turned;
stop the engine and engage the
handbrake.
Block the wheels with a wedge or a
stone if the car is parked on a steep
slope.
On versions with Dualogic gearbox, 1
st
gear or reverse must be engaged
with the foot on the brake pedal and, if
on a slope, the handbrake must be
operated in order to park safely.
IMPORTANT NEVER leave the car with
the gearbox in neutral (on versions
equipped with Dualogic transmission,
this is indicated by the letter N on
the display).
HANDBRAKE
98) 99)
The handbrake lever is located between
the two front seats.
Handbrake engagement
Pull lever A fig. 87 upwards until the car
is secured. Four or five clicks are
generally enough when the car is on
level ground while ten or eleven may be
required if the car is on a steep slope
and laden: if it is not so, contact a
Fiat Dealership to have it adjusted.
Handbrake disengagement
Slightly raise lever A and hold button B
pressed, checking that the
warning
light switches off in the instrument
panel.
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104
STARTING AND DRIVING

WARNING
100)Depress the clutch pedal fully to
change gear correctly. It is therefore
essential that there is nothing under the
pedals: make sure the mats are lying
flat and do not get in the way of the
pedals.
WARNING
43)Do not drive with your hand resting on
the gear lever as the force exerted, even
if slight, could lead over time to premature
wear of the gearbox internal components.
USING THE
DUALOGIC
GEARBOX
(for versions/markets, where provided)
101)44)
GEAR LEVER
The gear lever A fig. 89 is the
multistable floating type, in other words
it has three stable and three unstable
positions.
The three stable positions correspond
to neutral (N), reverse (R) and the
central position located between the
unstable positions (+) and (-).
The central position of the gear lever
identifies forward gear.The unstable positions, in other words
those that are abandoned as soon
as the lever is released, are the
positions for requesting a higher gear
(+), requesting a lower gear (–) and
requesting to switch mode from
automatic to manual and vice versa
(A/M).
OPERATING MODE
The transmission/transmission can
function in two operating modes:
MANUALin which the driver
decides when to shift gear
AUTOin which the system decides
when to shift gear
MANUAL MODE
Proceed as follows:
press the brake pedal and start the
engine;
push the gear lever towards (+) to
engage first gear (if starting from N
or R, simply place the lever in the
middle position) or R to engage reverse;
in case of forward gear, the view on
the display must be “M1”, “M2” (see
figure), etc. If this is not so, move the
A/M to activate manual mode;
release the brake pedal and press
the accelerator pedal;
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106
STARTING AND DRIVING

in driving conditions, push the gear
lever towards (+) to engage the next
gear up or towards (–) to engage the
next gear down.
IMPORTANT For the correct use of the
system only use your right foot to
operate the pedal unit.
AUTOMATIC MODE
(AUTO)
Proceed as follows:
press the brake pedal and start the
engine;
push the gear lever towards (+) to
engage first gear (if starting from N
or R, simply place the lever in the
middle position) or R to engage reverse;
in case of forward gear, the view on
the display must be “A1”, “A2” (see
figure), etc. If this is not so, move the
A/M to activate automatic mode;
release the brake pedal and press
the accelerator pedal: the gear most
suited to the vehicle speed will be
engaged.
AUTO-ECO OPERATION
To activate the function press the ECO
button fig. 90. The ECO function can be
only activated only with automatic
mode active.With the ECO function active, the
system will select the most suitable
gear depending on the vehicle speed,
engine rpm and intensity with which the
accelerator pedal is pressed, with the
aim of limiting fuel consumption.
“Kick Down” FUNCTION
(for versions/markets, where provided)
If necessary (e.g. when overtaking),
the system downshifts one or more
gears when the accelerator is
depressed beyond the point where it
becomes stiff (and if the rpm allow it) in
order to provide suitable power and
torque for the required acceleration.
IMPORTANT The use of the “Kick
Down” function is recommended only
when overtaking or accelerating quickly,
in order not to increase fuel
consumption.STEERING WHEEL
CONTROLS
(for versions/markets, where provided)
45)
On some versions, the gearbox can be
managed sequentially using the
steering wheel controls fig. 91.
To use the controls on the steering
wheel, the gear lever must be in the
central position between (+) and (–).
To engage a higher gear: pull the
right stalk (+) toward the steering wheel.
To engage a lower gear: pull the
right stalk (-) toward the steering wheel.
The engagement of a lower (or higher)
gear is only permitted if the engine
revs allow it.
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91F0Y0615C
107

WARNING
101)If the engine fails to start with a gear
engaged, the potentially dangerous
situation due to the fact that the
transmission is automatically put in neutral
will be signalled by an acoustic signal.
WARNING
44)Avoid keeping your hand on this lever
except during gear change or AUTO/
MANUAL mode requests.
45)Using the paddles incorrectly (paddles
pushed towards the dashboard) could
break them.
START&STOP
SYSTEM
102) 103)46)
The Start&Stop system automatically
stops the engine whenever the car
is stationary and all the conditions for
automatic switch-off are met. The
engine is restarted when the driver
wants to move off.
In this way, the car efficiency is
increased, by reducing consumption,
dangerous gas emissions and sound
pollution.
OPERATING MODE
Stopping the engine
Versions with manual transmission
: with the car stationary, the engine
stops with the gears in neutral and the
clutch pedal released.
Versions with Dualogic
transmission: the engine stops if the
vehicle is at a standstill and the brake
pedal is pressed. This condition can be
maintained even if the brake pedal is
not depressed, if the gear lever is
in position N (Neutral).
NOTE The engine can only be stopped
automatically after exceeding about
10 km/h, to prevent the engine from
being repeatedly stopped when driving
at walking pace.The
warning light on the instrument
panel switches on to signal that the
engine has stopped.
Restarting the engine
Versions with manual transmission:
press the clutch pedal.
Versions with Dualogic
transmission: if the gear lever is in
position N (Neutral), place it in any other
gear, otherwise release the brake pedal
or move the gear lever to +, – or R.
MANUAL SYSTEM
ACTIVATION/
DEACTIVATION
To activate/deactivate the system
manually, press the
fig. 92 button.
LED off: system activated /LED on:
system deactivated.
WARNING
102)If the battery needs to be replaced,
always contact a Fiat Dealership. Replace
the battery with one of the same type
(HEAVY DUTY) and with the same
specifications.
108
STARTING AND DRIVING
IMPORTANT For versions/markets,
where provided, the system is
activated automatically whenever the
engine is started, regardless of the
condition (system on or off) present
before the engine was stopped.

103)Before opening the bonnet, make
sure the engine is off and the ignition key is
in the STOP position. Always refer to the
plate inside the bonnet. We recommend
that you remove the key from the ignition if
other people remain in the vehicle. Exit
from the car only after having removed the
ignition key or having rotated it to the
STOP position. During refuelling, make sure
that the engine is off and that the ignition
key is in the STOP position.
WARNING
46)If the car is equipped with manual
climate control, if you want to favour
climate comfort, the Start&Stop system
can be deactivated for continuous climate
control system operation.
CRUISE CONTROL
(constant speed
regulator)
(for versions/markets, where provided)
104) 105) 106)
DESCRIPTION
This is an electronically controlled
driving assistance device that allows
the desired car speed to be maintained,
without having to press the accelerator
pedal. This device can be used at a
speed above 30 km/h on long stretches
of dry, straight roads with few
variations (e.g. motorways).
It is therefore not recommended to use
this device on extra-urban roads with
traffic. Do not use the device in town.
DEVICE ACTIVATION
Press button Afig. 93
. Activation of
the device is indicated by illumination of
the
symbol (coloured white) on the
display switching on (on some versions
a specific message is also displayed).
Once the Speed Limiter is activated,
button A has to be pressed twice
to activate the Cruise Control.IMPORTANT The device cannot be
engaged in 1
stor reverse gear: it is
advisable to engage it in 4rdgear or
higher.
IMPORTANT It is dangerous to leave
the device on when it is not used. There
is a risk of inadvertently activating it
and losing control of the vehicle due to
unexpected excessive speed.
SETTING THE DESIRED
SPEED
Proceed as follows:
activate the device by pressing
button A fig. 93.
when the car has reached the
desired speed, press button SET + (or
SET –) and release it to activate the
device. When the accelerator is
released, the car will keep the selected
speed automatically.
92F0Y0653C93F0Y0619C
109

The system indicates the presence of
an obstacle by displaying a single arc in
one of the possible areas, in
accordance with the distance of the
object and the position in relation to the
car. If the obstacle is detected in the
rear central area, a single arc will be
displayed as the obstacle approaches,
first constant, then flashing, in addition
to an acoustic signal.
ACTIVATION/
DEACTIVATION
The sensors are automatically activated
when reverse gear is engaged. As the
obstacle behind the car gets closer
to the car, the acoustic signal becomes
more frequent.
OPERATION WITH A
TRAILER
The operation of the sensors is
automatically deactivated when the
trailer electric cable plug is inserted in
the tow hook socket of the car. The
sensors are automatically reactivated
when the trailer's cable plug is
removed.
IMPORTANT NOTES
When parking, take the utmost care
over obstacles that may be above
or under the sensor.Under certain circumstances, objects
close to the car are not detected by the
system and could therefore cause
damage to the car or be damaged
themselves.
Some conditions may influence the
performance of the parking sensors:
the presence of ice, snow, mud
or think paint on the sensor surface
may cause reduced sensitivity of the
sensor itself and therefore reduce
the system performance;
mechanical interference (e.g.
washing the car, rain, strong wind, hail)
may cause the sensor to detect a
non-existent obstacle ("echo
interference");
the presence of ultrasonic systems
(e.g. pneumatic brake systems of
trucks or pneumatic drills) near the car
could alter the signals sent by the
sensor;
the variation in sensor position,
caused by variation in ride (due
to suspension component wear),
changing tyres, overloaded car, or
tuning that lowers the car, for example,
may affect parking sensor system
performance.
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IMPORTANT When parking, take the
utmost care over obstacles that may be
above or under the operating range of
the camera.
WARNING
108)Parking and other potentially
dangerous manoeuvres are, however,
always the driver’s responsibility. While
carrying out these manoeuvres, always
make sure that no people (especially
children) or animals are in the area
concerned. The camera is an aid for the
driver, but the driver must never allow
his/her attention to lapse during potentially
dangerous manoeuvres, even those
executed at low speeds. Always keep a
slow speed, so as to promptly brake in the
case of obstacles.
WARNING
48)It is vital, for correct operation, that the
camera is always kept clean and free
from any mud, dirt, snow or ice. Be careful
not to scratch or damage the camera
while cleaning it. Avoid using dry, rough or
hard cloths. The camera must be washed
using clean water, with the addition of
car shampoo if necessary. In washing
stations which use steam or high-pressure
jets, clean the camera quickly, keeping
the nozzle more than 10 cm away from the
sensors. Also, do not apply stickers to
the camera.
TOWING TRAILERS
109) 110) 111)
INSTALLING A TOW
HOOK
The towing device should be fastened
to the body by specialised technicians
according to any additional and/or
integrative information supplied by the
Manufacturer of the device.
The towing device must meet current
regulations with reference to Directive
94/20/EC and subsequent
amendments.
For any version the towing device used
must be right for the towable weight
of the car on which it is to be installed.
For the electrical connection a standard
connector should be used which is
generally placed on a special bracket
normally fastened to the towing device,
and a special ECU for external trailer
light control must be installed on the
vehicle.
For the electrical connection,a7or13
pin 12 V DC connection is to be used
(CUNA/UNI and ISO/DIN Standards).
Follow the reference instructions
provided by the car Manufacturer
and/or the tow device Manufacturer.IMPORTANT NOTES
For towing caravans or trailers the car
must be fitted with an approved tow
hook and an adequate electrical
system. Installation must be carried out
by specialised technicians.
Install any specific and/or additional
door mirrors as specified by the
Highway Code.
Remember that, when towing a trailer,
steep hills are harder to climb, braking
distances increase and overtaking
takes longer depending on the overall
weight of the trailer.
Engage a low gear when driving
downhill, rather than constantly using
the brake.
The weight the trailer exerts on the car
tow hook reduces the car's loading
capacity by the same amount. To make
sure that the maximum towable weight
is not exceeded (given in the vehicle
registration document) account should
be taken of the fully laden trailer,
including accessories and luggage.
Do not exceed the speed limits specific
to each country you are driving in, in
the case of vehicles towing trailers.
In any case, the top speed must not
exceed 100 km/h.
117

Any electric brake (or electric winch,
etc.) should be supplied directly by the
battery through a cable with a section
of at least 2.5 mm
2.
In addition to the electrical branches,
the car electrical system can only
be connected to the supply cable for an
electric brake and to the cable for an
internal light for the trailer, not
exceeding 15 W. For connections, use
the preset control unit with a battery
cable with section not less than 2.5
mm
2.
IMPORTANT The use of auxiliary loads
other than external lights (electric brake,
winch, etc.) must take place with
engine running.
IMPORTANT To install a tow hook
contact a Fiat Dealership.
WARNING
109)The ABS with which the car is
equipped will not control the braking
system of the trailer. Particular caution is
required on slippery roads.
110)Never modify the braking system of
the vehicle to control the trailer brake. The
trailer braking system must be fully
independent of the vehicle’s hydraulic
system.
111)After fitting, screw holes must be
sealed to prevent a exhaust gas inlet.
REFUELLING THE
VEHICLE
112) 113) 114)49)
Before refuelling, make sure that the
fuel type is correct. During refuelling
procedure, switch off the engine,
engage handbrake, rotate the ignition
key to STOP and do not smoke.
PETROL ENGINES
Only use unleaded petrol with a number
of octanes (R.O.N.) not lower than 95
(EN228 specification).
DIESEL ENGINES
Only use Diesel for motor vehicles
(EN590 specification).
When using or parking the car for a
long time in the mountains or cold
areas, it is advisable to refuel using
locally available Diesel. In this case, it is
also advisable to keep the tank over
50% full.
REFUELLING
PROCEDURE
Diesel and petrol versions
Proceed as follows:
open the flap A fig. 104 pulling
outwards, insert the nozzle in the filler
and refuel;
after refuelling, before removing the
dispenser, wait for at least 10 seconds
in order for the fuel to flow inside the
tank;
then remove the dispenser from the
filler and close flap A.
The refuelling procedure described
above is illustrated on the label B fig.
104 located inside the fuel flap. The
label also indicates the fuel type
(UNLEADED FUEL=petrol,
DIESEL=diesel fuel).
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STARTING AND DRIVING