ABS FIAT PANDA 2018 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 followed carefully.
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.

IGNITION DEVICE
2) 3) 4) 5)
The key can be turned to 3 different
positions fig. 3:
STOP: engine off, key can be
removed, steering column locked.
Some electrical devices (e.g. audio
system, central door locking system,
etc.) can operate;
MAR: driving position. All electrical
devices are enabled;
AVV: engine starting.
The ignition device is fitted with a safety
system that requires the ignition key
to be turned back to STOP if the engine
does not start, before the starting
operation can be repeated.STEERING LOCK
Activation
When the device is at STOP, remove
the key and turn the steering wheel until
it locks.
Turning off
Move the steering wheel slightly and
turn the 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 1
stgear if the car is parked uphill or
reverse if the car is parked downhill. Never
leave children unattended in the vehicle.
4)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 badly affect performance and safety,
invalidate the warranty and also result in
non-compliance of the car with type-
approval requirements.
5)Never remove the key while the car is
moving. The steering wheel will
automatically lock as soon as it is turned.
This holds true for cars being towed as
well.
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.
OPERATION
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.
The code is sent only if the Fiat CODE
system control unit has acknowledged
the code received from the key.
Each time the ignition key is turned to
STOP, the Fiat CODE system
deactivates the functions of the engine
control module. If, during starting,
the code is not correctly recognised,
the
warning light switches on in the
instrument panel. In this case, turn
the key to STOP and then to MAR-ON;
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.3F1D0006
10
KNOWING YOUR CAR

STEERING WHEEL
13) 14)
ADJUSTMENTS
The steering wheel can be adjusted
vertically.
To adjust it, move lever A fig. 13
downwards to position 1, then adjust
the steering wheel to the most suitable
position and lock it in position by
moving lever A to position 2.
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 badly affect performance
and safety, invalidate the warranty and
also result in non-compliance of the car
with type-approval requirements.
REAR VIEW
MIRRORS
REAR-VIEW MIRROR
The mirror is fitted with a safety device
that causes its release in the event of
a violent impact with the passenger.
Operate lever A fig. 14 to adjust the
mirror into two different positions:
normal or anti-glare.
A
2
1
13F1D001314F1D0014
15

12)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.
13)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. 38, then remove the cover B. Close
the LPG cock rotating the ring nut C
clockwise fig. 40. Refit the cover and
retighten the fastening devices.
14)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 of this Supplement). If the level
is above 30.5 litres (reserve included)
contact a Fiat Dealership immediately.
15)Regardless of the last fuel system
used, at the following engine starting, after
the initial petrol stage, the system will
automatically switch to LPG.16)When switching from petrol to LPG is
requested, a metal noise from the valves
which pressurise the circuit can be heard.
As a result of the switching logic described
above, a delay between the valve ticking
and the the green warning light
on
the instrument panel turning off is
completely normal.
17)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
indicating the performed switching. In the
event of low LPG levels in the tank or
request for high performance (e.g.
overtaking, fully laden vehicle, steep hills)
the system may automatically switch to
petrol operation to guarantee the engine
power requested. The green warning light
on the instrument panel turns on to
indicate this. When the above conditions
are no longer present, the system
automatically restores LPG operation; the
green warning light
switches off. To
achieve the automatic switching described
above, make sure that there is always
enough fuel in the petrol tank.
18)Only use LPG for motor vehicles.
19)It is strictly forbidden to use any
additive in the LPG.
VERSION WITH
METHANE SYSTEM
(Natural Power)
33) 34) 35)20)
INTRODUCTION
The "Natural Power" version features
two fuel systems, one for petrol and
one for natural gas (methane).
METHANE CYLINDERS
The vehicle is equipped with two
cylinders (total capacity about 72 litres)
fig. 42 - fig. 43 located under the
vehicle’s floor and protected by two
special guards.
42F1D0137
32
KNOWING YOUR CAR

Amber warning lights
Warning light What it means
amberABS 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. 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.
amberPASSENGER AIRBAG/SIDE BAGS DEACTIVATED
The warning light is located on the dashboard in central position and switches on deactivating the front
passenger airbag and the side bag. With front passenger airbag on, when the ignition key is turned to
MAR, the warning light switches on constantly for several seconds and then it should switch off.42)
WARNING
42)A failure of thewarning light is indicated by thewarning light switching on. In addition, the airbag system automatically disables the
airbags on the passenger's side (front and side bags where provided). Before continuing, contact a Fiat Dealership immediately to have the
system checked.
46
KNOWING THE INSTRUMENT PANEL

ACTIVE SAFETY
SYSTEMS
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 all road surface conditions,
irrespective of the intensity of the
braking action, ensuring that the car
can be controlled even during
emergency braking.
IMPORTANT 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.
The ABS also integrates the following
systems: EBD (Electronic Braking Force
Distribution), MSR (Motor
Schleppmoment Regelung) and MBA
(Mechanical Brake Assist) (for
versions/markets, where provided).System intervention
The driver can feel that the ABS system
has come into action because the
brake pedal pulsates slightly and the
system gets noisier: this is entirely
normal with the system operating.
44) 45) 46) 47) 48) 49) 50) 51) 52)
ESC (Electronic Stability
Control) SYSTEM
(for versions/markets, where provided)
This is an electronic system that
controls car stability in the event of loss
of tyre grip, 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
The intervention of the system is
indicated by the flashing of theESC
warning light on the instrument panel,
to inform the driver that the vehicle is in
critical stability and grip conditions.
53) 54) 55) 56) 57) 58)
HH (Hill Holder) SYSTEM
This system is an integral part of the
ESC system and facilitates starting on
slopes.
It is automatically activated in the
following conditions:
uphill: vehicle stationary on a road
with a gradient higher than 5%, engine
running, brake pressed and
transmission in neutral or gear other
than reverse engaged;
downhill: car stationary on a road
with a gradient of more than 5%,
engine running, brake pressed and
reverse gear engaged.
When setting off, the ESC system
control unit maintains the braking
pressure on the wheels until the torque
necessary for starting is reached, or
in any case for a maximum of 2
seconds, allowing your right foot to be
moved easily from the brake pedal to
the accelerator.
When the 2 seconds have elapsed,
without starting, the system is
automatically deactivated, gradually
releasing the braking pressure. During
this release stage, the typical
mechanical brake release noise can be
heard, indicating that the car is about
to move.
NOTE: The Hill Holder system is not
active with the handbrake engaged.
60
SAFETY

IMPORTANT The Hill Holder 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.
ASR (AntiSlip
Regulation) SYSTEM
It is an integral part of the ESC system.
It is automatically activated in the case
of drive wheels slipping, loss of grip
on wet roads (aquaplaning) and
acceleration on slippery, snowy or icy
roads, etc.
Depending on the slipping conditions,
two different control systems are
activated:
if the slipping involves both drive
wheels, the ASR intervenes reducing
the power transmitted by the engine;
if the slipping only involves one
of the drive wheels, it intervenes
automatically braking the wheel that is
slipping.
Engagement/disengagement of the
system
The ASR is switched on automatically
each time the engine is started.
While driving, the ASR can be switched
off and subsequently switched on
again by pressing the ASR OFF button
fig. 48.On some versions, the intervention of
the system is indicated by a dedicated
message shown on the display. When
the system is not active, the LED on the
button ASR OFF turns on and, on
some versions, a message appears on
the display.
When the ASR is deactivated while
driving, the next time the car is started
the ASR is automatically activated.
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
setting off gives you better traction.
59) 60) 61) 62) 63)
HBA (Hydraulic Brake
Assist) 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 from the HBA
system is obtained pressing the brake
pedal very quickly. In addition, the
brake pedal must be pressed
continuously during braking, avoiding
intermittent presses, to benefit 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.
64) 65) 66)
48F1D0038
61

IMPORTANT The Gravity Control
system is deactivated when exceeding
25 km/h and at speeds lower than
50 km/h it remains enabled to be
reactivated when the speed returns
under 25 km/h. In this case, the
indication on the instrument panel is
switched off and the LED on the ring
stays on. If car speed exceeds 50
km/h, the Gravity Control system
completely deactivates and each
individual action made by the system
on the brakes is blocked. To reactivate
it, turn the ring nut again when the
speed is again below 25 km/h.
T+ (Traction Plus)
SYSTEM
(for versions/markets, where provided)
Traction Plus is a driving aid, useful
for setting off in poor grip conditions
(snow, ice, mud, etc.) which allows the
drive force to be distributed in the
best way over the front axle when one
wheel is slipping.
Traction Plus acts by braking the
wheels with poor grip (or those slipping
more than the others), thereby
transferring the drive force to those
which have greater grip on the ground.Engagement/disengagement
The system is deactivated when
starting. To activate the Traction Plus
system, press the T+ button fig. 52: the
LED on the button switches on; the
display shows a dedicated message. To
disengage the system press the T+
button again.
Operation
This function operates under a
threshold of 30 km/h. Over this speed,
it is automatically deactivated (the
LED on the button is still on) and it is
reactivated again when the speed
is below 30 km/h.
The activation of the Traction Plus
system causes the differential locking
effect on the front axle, through the
braking system, to improve traction on
irregular grounds.If the Traction Plus system is faulty, the
ESCwarning light on the instrument
panel switches on constantly.
WARNING
44)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.
45)When the ABS cuts in and you feel the
brake pedal pulsating, do not remove
your foot, but keep the pedal pushed
down; in doing so you, will stop in the
shortest distance possible under the road
conditions at the time.
46)If the ABS system intervenes, this
indicates that the traction of the tyres on
the road is nearing its limit. You must slow
down to a speed compatible with the
available traction.
47)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.
48)The ABS cannot overrule the natural
laws of physics, and cannot increase
the grip available according to the
condition of the road.
49)The ABS cannot prevent accidents,
including those due to excessive speed on
corners, driving on low-grip surfaces or
aquaplaning.
52F1D0039
64
SAFETY

50)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.
51)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.
52)When the Mechanical Brake Assist
intervenes, noises may be heard from the
system. This is normal. In any case, while
braking keep the brake pedal firmly
depressed.
53)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.
54)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.
55)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, in any
case, responsible for safe driving.
56)The ESC system cannot alter the
natural laws of physics, and cannot
increase grip, which depends on the
condition of the road.
57)The ESC system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.58)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.
59)For the correct operation of the ASR
system, 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.
60)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, in any case, responsible for
safe driving.
61)The ASR cannot overrule the natural
laws of physics, and cannot increase
the grip available according to the
condition of the road.
62)The ASR system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on corners, driving on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.
63)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.
64)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.
65)The HBA system cannot prevent
accidents, including those due to excessive
speed on bends, travelling on low-grip
surfaces or aquaplaning.66)The HBA system is an aid for the driver,
who must always pay full attention while
driving. The responsibility always rests with
the driver. The features of the HBA system
must never be tested in imprudent or
dangerous ways, with the possibility of
putting the safety of the driver, occupants
or other road users at risk.
65

71)If the car must be placed on a roller
bench (at a speed within 5 and 30 km/h)
for maintenance interventions or if it is
washed in an automatic roller washing
tunnel with an obstacle in the front part
(e.g. another car, a wall or another
obstacle), the system may detect its
presence and activate. In this case the
system must be deactivated through the
display Setup Menu.
72)If the system signals a pressure
decrease on a specific tyre, it is
recommended to check the pressure on all
four tyres.
73)The iTPMS does not relieve the driver
from the obligation to check the tyre
pressure every month; it is not to
be considered a system to replace
maintenance or a safety system.
74)Tyre pressure must be checked with
tyres cold. Should it become necessary for
whatever reason to check pressure with
warm tyres, do not reduce pressure even
though it is higher than the prescribed
value, but repeat the check when tyres are
cold.
75)The iTPMS cannot indicate sudden
tyre pressure drops (for example when
a tyre bursts). In this case, stop the vehicle,
braking with caution and avoiding abrupt
steering.
76)The system only warns that the tyre
pressure is low: it is not able to inflate
them.
77)Insufficient tyre inflation increases fuel
consumption, reduces the tread duration
and may affect the capacity to drive safely.
WARNING
30)The laser sensor may have limited or
absent operation due to weather
conditions such as: heavy rain, hail, thick
fog, heavy snow, formation of ice layers on
the windscreen.
31)Sensor operation may also be
compromised by the presence of dust,
condensation, dirt or ice on the
windscreen, by traffic conditions (e.g.
vehicles that are driving not aligned with
you car, vehicle driving in a transverse
or opposite way on the same lane, bend
with a small radius of curvature), by road
surface conditions and by driving
conditions (e.g. off-road driving). Make sure
the windscreen is always clean. Use
specific detergents and clean cloths to
avoid scratching the windscreen. The
sensor operation may also be limited or
absent in some driving, traffic and road
surface conditions.
32)Projecting loads on the roof of the car
may interfere with the correct operation
of the sensor. Before starting make sure
the load is correctly positioned, in order not
to cover the sensor operating range.
33)If the windscreen must be replaced
due to scratches, chipping or breakage,
contact exclusively a Fiat Dealership.
Do not replace the windscreen on your
own, risk of malfunction! It is advisable to
replace the windscreen if it is damaged
in the laser sensor area.34)Do not tamper nor operate on the laser
sensor. Do not close the openings in the
aesthetic cover located under the interior
rear view mirror. In the event of a sensor
failure, contact a Fiat Dealership.
35)Do not cover the operating range of the
sensor with stickers or other objects. Also
pay attention to other objects on the
bonnet (e.g. a layer of snow) and make
sure they do not interfere with the light
emitted by the laser.
36)If a trailer or a vehicle is towed the
system must be deactivated with the
display Setup Menu.
69