Get Starting And Operating Guide for Fiat 500 L 4 Door First Generation (2012-2022)

STARTING AND OPERATING

CONTENTS

Ⅵ STARTING THE ENGINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

▫ Normal Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

▫ Cold Weather Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173

▫ Extended Park Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174

▫ If Engine Fails To Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .174

▫ After Starting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175

▫ Turbo Charger “Cool Down”. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .175

Ⅵ ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS . . . .175

Ⅵ PARKING BRAKE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176

Ⅵ AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177

▫ Key Ignition Park Interlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178

▫ Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System . . . .178

▫ Six-Speed Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . .178

Ⅵ AUTOSTICK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .183

▫ Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .184

Ⅵ ELECTRIC POWER STEERING . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185

Ⅵ SPEED CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185

▫ To Activate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

▫ To Set A Desired Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .186

▫ To Accelerate For Passing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187

▫ To Resume Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188

▫ To Deactivate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188

Ⅵ REAR PARK ASSIST — IF EQUIPPED . . . . . . . . .188

▫ Rear Park Assist Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .189

▫ Rear Park Assist Audible Alerts. . . . . . . . . . . . .189

▫ Indications On Display — If Equipped. . . . . . . .190

▫ Failure Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .191

6

172 STARTING AND OPERATING

▫ Cleaning The Rear Park Assist System . . . . . . . .192

Ⅵ RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND

MOTORHOME, ETC.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199

▫ Park Assist System Usage Precautions . . . . . . . .192

Ⅵ PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA . . . . . . . .193

Ⅵ ADDING FUEL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195

Ⅵ VEHICLE LOADING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197

▫ Certification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197

Ⅵ TRAILER TOWING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .199

▫ Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle . . .199

Ⅵ DRIVING TIPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200

▫ Driving On Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200

▫ Driving Through Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200

STARTING AND OPERATING 173

STARTING THE ENGINE

Normal Starting

Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both

inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belts.

NOTE: Normal starting of either a cold or a warm engine

is obtained without pumping or pressing the accelerator

pedal.

WARNING!

Turn the ignition switch to the AVV/ACC (START) posi-

tion and release it when the engine starts. If the engine fails

to start within 10 seconds, turn the ignition switch to the

STOP (OFF/LOCK) position, wait 10 to 15 seconds, then

repeat the “Normal Starting” procedure.

• When exiting the vehicle, always remove the key fob

from the ignition and lock your vehicle.

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle.

6

• Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is

dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others

could be seriously or fatally injured. Children

should be warned not to touch the parking brake,

brake pedal or the gear selector.

Automatic Transmission

The gear selector must be in the PARK or NEUTRAL

position before you can start the engine. Depress the brake

pedal before shifting to any driving gear.

• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in

a location accessible to children. A child could oper-

ate power windows, other controls, or move the

vehicle.

NOTE: You must press the brake pedal before shifting out

of PARK.

Cold Weather Operation

• Do not leave children or animals inside parked

vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build-up may

cause serious injury or death.

To prevent possible engine damage while starting at low

temperatures, this vehicle will inhibit engine cranking

when the ambient temperature is less than –22°F (–30°C)

and the oil temperature sensor reading indicates an engine

174 STARTING AND OPERATING

block heater has not been used. An externally powered

electric engine block heater is available as a factory in-

stalled option.

3. If the engine fails to start within 10 to 15 seconds, cycle

the ignition to the OFF mode, wait five seconds to allow

the starter to cool, then repeat the Extended Park

Starting procedure.

At the time the engine is shut off, the message “Engine

Heater Recommended” will be displayed in the instrument

cluster when the ambient temperature is below 5°F (–15°C).

This acts as a reminder to avoid possible crank delays at

the next cold start.

4. If the engine fails to start after eight attempts, allow the

starter to cool for at least 10 minutes, then repeat the

procedure.

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank continu-

ously for more than 10 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to 15

seconds before trying again.

Use of the recommended SAE 5W-40 Synthetic oil and

adhering to the prescribed oil change intervals is

important to prevent engine damage and ensure satis-

factory starting in cold conditions.

If Engine Fails To Start

Extended Park Starting

WARNING!

NOTE: Extended Park condition occurs when the vehicle

has not been started or driven for at least 30 days.

Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the

throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start the

vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing serious

personal injury.

1. Install a battery charger or jumper cables to the battery

to ensure a full battery charge during the crank cycle.

2. Cycle the ignition to the START mode and release it

when the engine starts.

STARTING AND OPERATING 175

Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km). After

the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55 mph (80

or 90 km/h) are desirable.

CAUTION!

To prevent damage to the starter, do not continuously

crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time.

Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.

While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration within the

limits of local traffic laws contributes to a good break-in.

Wide-open throttle acceleration in low gear can be detri-

mental and should be avoided.

After Starting

The idle speed is controlled automatically, and it will

decrease as the engine warms up.

The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a

high-quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil changes

should be consistent with anticipated climate conditions

under which vehicle operations will occur. For the recom-

mended viscosity and quality grades, refer to “Dealer

Service” in “Servicing And Maintenance”.

6

Turbo Charger “Cool Down”

This vehicle is equipped with an after-run pump to cool the

turbocharger after the engine is shut off. Depending on the

type of driving and the amount of cargo, the pump will run

for up to 10 minutes after the engine has been shut off to

circulate coolant through the turbocharger.

CAUTION!

Although the pump is rubber-mounted for quiet operation,

it is normal to hear it running during this time.

Never use Non-Detergent Oil or Straight Mineral Oil

in the engine or damage may result.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

NOTE: A new engine may consume some oil during its

first few thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This

should be considered a normal part of the break-in and not

interpreted as a problem.

A long break-in period is not required for the engine and

drivetrain (transmission and axle) in your vehicle.

176 STARTING AND OPERATING

PARKING BRAKE

When parking on a hill, it is important to turn the front

wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away

from the curb on an uphill grade. The parking brake

should always be applied whenever the driver is not in the

vehicle.

Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking

brake is fully applied.

The parking brake lever is located in the center console. To

apply the parking brake, pull the lever up as firmly as

possible. To release the parking brake, pull the lever up

slightly, push the front button with your thumb, then lower

the lever completely.

WARNING!

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle.

• Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is

dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others

could be seriously or fatally injured. Children

should be warned not to touch the parking brake,

brake pedal or the gear selector.

• Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle or in

a location accessible to children. A child could oper-

ate power windows, other controls, or move the

vehicle.

• Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged before

driving; failure to do so can lead to brake failure and

a collision.

• Always fully apply the parking brake when leaving

your vehicle, or it may roll and cause damage or

injury.

Parking Brake Lever

When the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch

in the MAR (ACC/ON/RUN) position, the Brake Warning

Light in the instrument cluster will illuminate.

STARTING AND OPERATING 177

CAUTION!

WARNING!

If the Brake Warning Light remains on with the park-

ing brake released, a brake system malfunction is

indicated. Have the brake system serviced by an au-

thorized dealer immediately.

• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL if

the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your

foot is not firmly pressing the brake pedal, the

vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re-

verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit

someone or something. Only shift into gear when the

engine is idling normally and your foot is firmly

pressing the brake pedal.

AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

6

CAUTION!

• Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure

those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles, you

should never exit a vehicle while the engine is

running. Before exiting a vehicle always come to a

complete stop, then apply the parking brake, shift

the transmission into PARK, turn the engine OFF,

and remove the ignition key. Once the key is re-

moved, the transmission is locked in PARK, securing

the vehicle against unwanted movement.

Damage to the transmission may occur if the following

precautions are not observed:

• Shift into or out of PARK or REVERSE only after the

vehicle has come to a complete stop.

• Do not shift between PARK, REVERSE, NEUTRAL,

or DRIVE when the engine is above idle speed.

• Before shifting into any gear, make sure your foot is

firmly pressing the brake pedal.

• When leaving the vehicle, always remove the igni-

tion key from the vehicle and lock the vehicle.

NOTE: You must press and hold the brake pedal while

shifting out of PARK.

(Continued)

178 STARTING AND OPERATING

Brake/Transmission Shift Interlock System

WARNING! (Continued)

This vehicle is equipped with a Brake Transmission Shift

Interlock System (BTSI) that holds the transmission gear

selector in PARK unless the brakes are applied. To shift the

transmission out of PARK, the ignition must be in the

ON/RUN mode (engine running or not), and the brake

pedal (and the lock button on the gear selector) must be

pressed.

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to

be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number

of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or

fatally injured. Children should be warned not to

touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the trans-

mission gear selector.

• Do not leave the ignition key in or near the vehicle

(or in a location accessible to children). A child could

operate power windows, other controls, or move the

vehicle.

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

The transmission gear range (PRND) is displayed both

beside the gear selector and in the instrument cluster. To

select a gear range, press the lock button on the gear

selector and move the selector rearward or forward. You

must also press the brake pedal to shift the transmission

out of PARK. Select the DRIVE range for normal driving.

Key Ignition Park Interlock

This vehicle is equipped with a Key Ignition Park Interlock

which requires the transmission to be in PARK before the

ignition can be turned to the LOCK/OFF (key removal)

position. The key can only be removed from the ignition

when the ignition is in the LOCK/OFF position, and once

removed, the transmission is locked in PARK.

The electronically-controlled transmission adapts its shift

schedule based on driver inputs, along with environmental

and road conditions. The transmission electronics are self-

calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle

may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, and

precision shifts will develop within a few hundred miles

(kilometers).

STARTING AND OPERATING 179

in the Autostick position will manually select the transmis-

sion gear. Refer to ЉAutoStickЉ in this section for further

information.

NOTE: If the gear selector cannot be moved to the PARK,

REVERSE, or NEUTRAL position (when pushed forward)

it is probably in the AutoStick (+/-) position (beside the

DRIVE position). In AutoStick mode, the transmission gear

(1, 2, 3, etc.) is displayed in the instrument cluster. Move

the gear selector to the right (into the DRIVE [D] position)

for access to PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL.

6

Gear Ranges

Transmission Gear Selector

Do not depress the accelerator pedal when shifting from

PARK or NEUTRAL into another gear range.

Only shift from DRIVE to PARK or REVERSE when the

accelerator pedal is released and the vehicle is stopped. Be

sure to keep your foot on the brake pedal when shifting

between these gears.

NOTE: After selecting any gear range, wait a moment to

allow the selected gear to engage before accelerating. This

is especially important when the engine is cold.

The transmission gear selector provides PARK, REVERSE,

NEUTRAL, DRIVE, and AutoStick (+/-) shift positions.

Manual shifts can be made using the AutoStick shift

control. Moving the gear selector into the AutoStick (+/-)

position (beside the DRIVE position) activates AutoStick

mode, providing manual shift control and displaying the

current gear in the instrument cluster (as 1, 2, 3, etc).

Toggling the gear selector forward (-) or rearward (+) while

PARK (P)

This range supplements the parking brake by locking the

transmission. The engine can be started in this range.

Never attempt to use PARK while the vehicle is in motion.

Apply the parking brake when exiting the vehicle in this

range.

180 STARTING AND OPERATING

When parking on a level surface, you may shift the

transmission into PARK first, and then apply the parking

brake.

WARNING! (Continued)

• Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if

it is not in PARK. Check by trying to move the gear

selector out of PARK with the brake pedal released.

Make sure the transmission is in PARK before exit-

ing the vehicle.

• It is dangerous to shift out of PARK or NEUTRAL if

the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your

foot is not firmly pressing the brake pedal, the

vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re-

verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit

someone or something. Only shift into gear when the

engine is idling normally and your foot is firmly

pressing the brake pedal.

When parking on a hill, apply the parking brake before

shifting the transmission to PARK, otherwise the load on

the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult

to move the gear selector out of PARK. As an added

precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a

downhill grade and away from the curb on an uphill grade.

When exiting the vehicle, always:

• Apply the parking brake.

• Shift the transmission into PARK.

• Turn the engine OFF.

• Unintended movement of a vehicle could injure

those in or near the vehicle. As with all vehicles, you

should never exit a vehicle while the engine is

running. Before exiting a vehicle always come to a

complete stop, then apply the parking brake, shift

the transmission into PARK, turn the engine OFF,

and remove the ignition key. Once the key is re-

moved, the transmission is locked in PARK, securing

the vehicle against unwanted movement.

• Remove the ignition key.

WARNING!

• Never use the PARK position as a substitute for the

parking brake. Always apply the parking brake fully

when exiting the vehicle to guard against vehicle

movement and possible injury or damage.

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING 181

NOTE: If the transmission in not correctly shifted into

PARK (P) a message on the instrument cluster will be

displayed, repeat the procedure as necessary.

WARNING! (Continued)

• When exiting the vehicle, always remove the ignition

key from the vehicle and lock the vehicle.

• Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with

access to an unlocked vehicle. Allowing children to

be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number

of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or

fatally injured. Children should be warned not to

touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the trans-

mission gear selector.

• Do not leave the ignition key in or near the vehicle

(or in a location accessible to children). A child could

operate power windows, other controls, or move the

vehicle.

The following indicators should be used to ensure that you

have properly engaged the transmission into the PARK

position:

• When shifting into PARK, push the lock button on the

gear selector and firmly move the gear selector all the

way forward until it stops and is fully seated.

6

• Look at the transmission gear position display and

verify that it indicates the PARK position (P).

• With brake pedal released, verify that the gear selector

will not move out of PARK.

REVERSE (R)

CAUTION!

This range is for moving the vehicle backward. Shift into

REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete

stop.

• Before moving the transmission gear selector out of

PARK, you must turn the ignition to the ON/RUN

mode, and also press the brake pedal. Otherwise,

damage to the gear selector could result.

• DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK

or NEUTRAL into another gear range, as this can

damage the drivetrain.

182 STARTING AND OPERATING

NEUTRAL (N)

DRIVE (D)

Use this range when the vehicle is standing for prolonged

periods with the engine running. The engine may be

started in this range. Apply the parking brake and shift the

transmission into PARK if you must exit the vehicle.

This range should be used for most city and highway

driving. It provides the smoothest upshifts and downshifts,

and the best fuel economy. The transmission automatically

upshifts through all forward gears. The DRIVE position

provides optimum driving characteristics under all normal

operating conditions.

WARNING!

When frequent transmission shifting occurs (such as when

operating the vehicle under heavy loading conditions, in

hilly terrain, or traveling into strong head winds), use the

AutoStick shift control (refer to AutoStick in this section for

further information) to select a lower gear. Under these

conditions, using a lower gear will improve performance

and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting

and heat buildup.

Do not coast in NEUTRAL and never turn off the

ignition to coast down a hill. These are unsafe practices

that limit your response to changing traffic or road

conditions. You might lose control of the vehicle and

have a collision.

CAUTION!

Towing the vehicle, coasting, or driving for any other

reason with the transmission in NEUTRAL can cause

severe transmission damage. Refer to “Recreational

Towing” in “Starting And Operating” and “Towing A

Disabled Vehicle” in “In Case Of Emergency” for

further information.

If the transmission temperature exceeds normal operating

limits, the transmission controller will expand the range of

torque converter clutch engagement. This is done to pre-

vent transmission damage due to overheating.

During cold temperatures, transmission operation may be

modified depending on engine coolant temperature. Nor-

mal operation will resume once the engine temperature has

risen to a suitable level.

STARTING AND OPERATING 183

Instrument Cluster Messages

4. Wait approximately 10 seconds.

Dedicated messages will be displayed in the instrument

cluster to alert the driver when certain unusual conditions

occur.

5. Restart the engine.

6. Shift into the desired gear range. If the problem is no

longer detected, the transmission will return to normal

operation.

Transmission Limp Home Mode

Transmission function is monitored electronically for ab-

normal conditions. If a condition is detected that could

result in transmission damage, Transmission Limp Home

Mode is activated. In this mode, the transmission remains

in a fixed gear regardless of which forward gear is selected.

PARK, REVERSE, and NEUTRAL will continue to operate.

The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be illuminated.

Limp Home Mode allows the vehicle to be driven to an

authorized dealer for service without damaging the trans-

mission.

NOTE: Even if the transmission can be reset, we recom-

mend that you visit an authorized dealer at your earliest

possible convenience. An authorized dealer has diagnostic

equipment to assess the condition of your transmission. If

the transmission cannot be reset, authorized dealer service

is required.

6

AUTOSTICK

AutoStick is a driver-interactive transmission feature pro-

viding manual shift control, giving you more control of the

vehicle. AutoStick allows you to maximize engine braking,

eliminate undesirable upshifts and downshifts, and im-

prove overall vehicle performance. This system can also

provide you with more control during passing, city driv-

ing, cold slippery conditions, mountain driving, and many

other situations.

In the event of a momentary problem, the transmission can

be reset to regain all forward gears by performing the

following steps:

1. Stop the vehicle.

2. Shift the transmission into PARK.

3. Turn the ignition OFF.

184 STARTING AND OPERATING

Operation

• If a requested downshift would cause the engine to

over-speed, that shift will not occur.

When the gear selector is in the AutoStick position (beside

the Drive position), it can be moved forward and rearward.

This allows the driver to manually select the transmission

gear being used. Moving the gear selector forward (-)

triggers a downshift, and rearward (+) an upshift. The

current gear is displayed in the instrument cluster.

• The system will ignore attempts to upshift at too low of

a vehicle speed.

• Avoid using speed control when AutoStick is engaged

because the transmission will not shift automatically.

• Transmission shifting will be more noticeable when

NOTE: In AutoStick mode, the transmission will only shift

up or down when the driver moves the gear selector

rearward (+) or forward (-), except as described below.

AutoStick is enabled.

• The system may revert to automatic shift mode if a fault

or overheat condition is detected.

• The transmission will automatically upshift when nec-

essary to prevent engine over-speed.

To disengage AutoStick mode, return the gear selector to

the DRIVE position. You can shift in or out of the AutoStick

position at any time without taking your foot off the

accelerator pedal.

• The transmission will automatically downshift as the

vehicle slows (to prevent engine lugging) and will

display the current gear.

• The transmission will automatically downshift to first

gear when coming to a stop. After a stop, the driver

should manually upshift (+) the transmission as the

vehicle is accelerated.

WARNING!

Do not downshift for additional engine braking on a

slippery surface. The drive wheels could lose their grip

and the vehicle could skid, causing a collision or

personal injury.

• You can start out (from a stop) in first, second, or third

gear. Starting out in second or third gear can be helpful

in snow or icy conditions. To select second or third gear

after the vehicle is brought to a stop, tap the gear selector

rearward (+) once or twice.

STARTING AND OPERATING 185

ELECTRIC POWER STEERING

This only operates with the key turned to MAR/ON and

the engine started. The steering allows the force required at

the steering wheel to be adjusted to suit driving conditions.

NOTE: When turning the ignition key quickly, full power

steering functionality can be achieved after a few seconds.

SPEED CONTROL

When engaged, the Speed Control takes over accelerator

operations at speeds greater than 25 mph (40 km/h).

6

The Speed Control buttons are located on the right side of

the steering wheel.

Speed Control Buttons

1 — SET (+)/Accel

2 — RES/Resume

3 — On/Off

4 — SET (-)/Decel

5 — CANC/Cancel

NOTE: In order to ensure proper operation, the Speed

Control system has been designed to shut down if multiple

Speed Control functions are operated at the same time. If

this occurs, the Speed Control system can be reactivated by

pushing the Speed Control on/off button and resetting the

desired vehicle set speed.

186 STARTING AND OPERATING

To Activate

To Vary The Speed Setting

Push the On/Off button to activate the Speed Control. The

cruise indicator light in the instrument cluster display will

illuminate. To turn the system off, push the On/Off button

a second time. The cruise indicator light will turn off. The

system should be turned off when not in use.

To Increase Speed

When the Speed Control is set, you can increase speed by

pushing the SET (+) button.

The driver’s preferred units can be selected through the

Uconnect settings if equipped. Refer to ”Uconnect Set-

tings” in “Multimedia” for more information. The speed

increment is dependent on the selected speed unit of U.S.

(mph) or Metric (km/h):

WARNING!

Leaving the Speed Control system on when not in use

is dangerous. You could accidentally set the system or

cause it to go faster than you want. You could lose

control and have an accident. Always leave the system

off when you are not using it.

U.S. Speed (mph)

• Pushing the SET (+) button once will result in a 1 mph

increase in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button

results in an increase of 1 mph.

To Set A Desired Speed

•

If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will

continue to increase until the button is released, then the

new set speed will be established.

Turn the Speed Control on. When the vehicle has reached

the desired speed, push the SET (+) or SET (-) button and

release. Release the accelerator and the vehicle will operate

at the selected speed.

Metric Speed (km/h)

• Pushing the SET (+) button once will result in a 1 km/h

increase in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button

results in an increase of 1 km/h.

NOTE: The vehicle should be traveling at a steady speed

and on level ground before setting the speed.

STARTING AND OPERATING 187

• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will

continue to increase until the button is released, then the

new set speed will be established.

Metric Speed (km/h)

• Pushing the SET (-) button once will result in a 1 km/h

decrease in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button

results in a decrease of 1 km/h.

To Decrease Speed

• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will

continue to decrease until the button is released, then the

new set speed will be established.

When the Speed Control is set, you can decrease speed by

pushing the SET (-) button.

The driver’s preferred units can be selected through the

Uconnect settings if equipped. Refer to ЉUconnect Settings”

in “Multimedia” for more information. The speed decre-

ment is dependant on the selected speed unit of U.S. (mph)

or Metric (km/h):

To Accelerate For Passing

6

Press the accelerator as you would normally. When the

pedal is released, the vehicle will return to the set speed.

Using Speed Control On Hills

U.S. Speed (mph)

The transmission may downshift on hills to maintain the

vehicle set speed.

• Pushing the SET (-) button once will result in a 1 mph

decrease in set speed. Each subsequent tap of the button

results in a decrease of 1 mph.

NOTE: The Speed Control system maintains speed up and

down hills. A slight speed change on moderate hills is

normal.

• If the button is continually pushed, the set speed will

continue to decrease until the button is released, then the

new set speed will be established.

On steep hills, a greater speed loss or gain may occur so it

may be preferable to drive without Speed Control.

188 STARTING AND OPERATING

REAR PARK ASSIST — IF EQUIPPED

WARNING!

The Rear Park Assist system provides an audible indication

of the distance between the rear fascia/bumper and a

detected obstacle when backing up, e.g. during a parking

maneuver, as well as visual indications in the instrument

cluster display.

Speed Control can be dangerous where the system

cannot maintain a constant speed. Your vehicle could

go too fast for the conditions, and you could lose

control and have an accident. Do not use Speed Control

in heavy traffic or on roads that are winding, icy,

snow-covered or slippery.

Rear Park Assist is automatically activated when the

transmission is placed into REVERSE. As the distance from

an obstacle behind the vehicle decreases, the audible alert

becomes more frequent.

To Resume Speed

To resume a previously set speed, push the RES button and

release. Resume can be used at any speed above 25 mph

(40 km/h).

Refer to the “Park Assist System Usage Precautions” for the

limitations of this system and recommendations.

To Deactivate

Interaction With Trailer Towing

A soft tap on the brake pedal, pushing the CANC button,

or normal brake pressure while slowing the vehicle will

deactivate the Speed Control without erasing the set speed

from memory.

The Rear Park Assist system is automatically deactivated

when a trailer is hitched to the vehicle. The system will be

automatically activated as soon as the trailer is removed.

Pushing the on/off button or turning the ignition switch

OFF erases the set speed from memory.

STARTING AND OPERATING 189

Rear Park Assist Sensors

Rear Park Assist Audible Alerts

The four Rear Park Assist sensors, located in the rear

fascia/bumper, monitor the area behind the vehicle that is

within the sensors’ field of view. The sensors can detect

obstacles, in the horizontal direction, from approximately

12 inches (30 cm) up to 55 inches (140 cm) from the center

of the rear fascia/bumper and up to 24 inches (60 cm) from

the corners of the rear fascia/bumper, depending on the

location, type and orientation of the obstacle.

If an obstacle is behind the vehicle when the transmission

is placed into REVERSE, an audible alert is activated.

The tones emitted by the loudspeaker inform the driver

that the vehicle is approaching an obstacle. The pauses

between the tones are directly proportional to the distance

from the obstacle. Pulses emitted in quick succession

indicate the presence of a very close obstacle. A continuous

tone indicates that the obstacle is less than 12 inches

(30 cm) away.

6

If several obstacles are detected, the Rear Park Assist

system indicates the nearest obstacle.

The minimum height of a detectable obstacle corresponds

to the maximum height of an obstacle that would clear the

underside of the vehicle during the parking maneuver.

190 STARTING AND OPERATING

Audible And Visual Signals Supplied By The Rear Park Assist System

SIGNAL

MEANING

INDICATION

Obstacle Distance

An obstacle is present within the

sensors’ field of view

Audible Signal (dashboard loud-

speaker)

• Sound pulses emitted at a rate that

increases as the distance decreases.

• Emits continuous tone at 12 inches

(30 cm).

• Adjustable volume level. (Refer to

“Instrument Cluster Display” in

“Getting To Know Your Instrument

Panel” for further information).

Failure

Sensor or System failures

Visual Signal (instrument panel)

• Icon appears on display.

• Message is displayed on the instru-

ment cluster display (if equipped).

While audible signals are emitted, the audio system is not

muted.

Indications On Display — If Equipped

When the sensors are activated, the parking sensor display

screen appears in the instrument cluster.

The audible signal is turned off immediately if the distance

increases. The tone cycle remains constant if the distance

measured by the inner sensors is constant. If this condition

occurs for the external sensors, the signal is turned off after

3 seconds (stopping warnings during maneuvers parallel

to walls).

Obstacle presence and distance information is therefore

provided both by the audible signal and the instrument

cluster display.

STARTING AND OPERATING 191

The system indicates a detected obstacle by displaying an

arc in one or more positions according to the distance of the

obstacle and its position in relation to the vehicle.

Failure Indications

A malfunction of the Rear Park Assist sensors or system is

indicated, during REVERSE gear engagement, by the in-

strument panel warning icon and message appearing on

the instrument cluster display.

If an obstacle is detected in the rear central area, the

instrument cluster display shows all the arcs in the rear

central area, up to the one that corresponds to the position

of the obstacle itself.

The warning icon is illuminated and a message

appears on the instrument cluster display. Refer

to ЉInstrument Cluster DisplayЉ in “Getting To

Know Your Instrument Panel” for further

information.

The signal is similar for obstacles in the rear left or right

area.

6

The arc that corresponds to the position of the obstacle will

flash.

The sensors and wiring are tested continuously when the

ignition is in the ON/RUN position. Failures are indicated

immediately if they occur when the system is on.

The color on the instrument cluster display depends on the

distance from and position of the obstacle.

Even if the system is able to identify that a specific sensor

is in failure condition, the instrument cluster display shall

indicate that the Rear Park Assist system is unavailable,

without reference to the sensor in failure condition. If even

a single sensor fails, the entire system must be disabled.

The system is turned off automatically.

The vehicle is close to the obstacle when the instrument

cluster display shows a single constant arc and emits a

continuous sound.

If there are several obstacles, the closest one is indicated.

192 STARTING AND OPERATING

Cleaning The Rear Park Assist System

• Objects such as bicycle carriers, etc., must not be placed

within 12 inches (30 cm) from the rear fascia/bumper

while driving the vehicle. Failure to do so can result in

the system misinterpreting a close object as a sensor

problem, causing a failure indication to be displayed in

the instrument cluster.

Clean the Rear Park Assist sensors with water, car wash

soap and a soft cloth. Do not use rough or hard cloths. In

washing stations, clean sensors quickly keeping the vapor

jet/high pressure washing nozzles at least 4 inches (10 cm)

from the sensors. Do not scratch or poke the sensors.

Otherwise, you could damage the sensors.

WARNING!

Park Assist System Usage Precautions

• Drivers must be careful when backing up even when

using Rear Park Assist. Always check carefully be-

hind your vehicle, look behind you, and be sure to

check for pedestrians, animals, other vehicles, ob-

structions, and blind spots before backing up. You

are responsible for safety and must continue to pay

attention to your surroundings. Failure to do so can

result in serious injury or death.

NOTE:

• Ensure that the outer surface and the underside of the

rear bumper is clean and clear of snow, ice, mud, dirt or

other obstruction to keep the Rear Park Assist system

operating properly.

• Jackhammers, large trucks, and other vibrations could

affect the performance of Rear Park Assist.

•

Before using Rear Park Assist, it is strongly recom-

mended that the ball mount and hitch ball assembly is

disconnected from the vehicle when the vehicle is not

used for towing. Failure to do so can result in injury or

damage to vehicles or obstacles because the hitch ball

will be much closer to the obstacle than the rear fascia

when the loudspeaker sounds the continuous tone.

Also, the sensors could detect the ball mount and hitch

• Clean the Rear Park Assist sensors regularly, taking care

not to scratch or damage them. The sensors must not be

covered with ice, snow, slush, mud, dirt or debris.

Failure to do so can result in the system not working

properly. The Rear Park Assist system might not detect

an obstacle behind the fascia/bumper, or it could pro-

vide a false indication that an obstacle is behind the

fascia/bumper.

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING 193

PARKVIEW REAR BACK UP CAMERA

WARNING! (Continued)

Your vehicle is equipped with the ParkView Rear Back Up

Camera that allows you to see an on-screen image of the

rear surroundings of your vehicle whenever the gear

selector is put into REVERSE. The image will be displayed

in the touchscreen display along with a caution note to

“check entire surroundings” across the top of the screen.

After five seconds, this note will disappear. The ParkView

camera is located on the rear of the vehicle above the rear

license plate.

ball assembly, depending on its size and shape, giving a

false indication that an obstacle is behind the vehicle.

CAUTION!

• Rear Park Assist is only a parking aid and it is

unable to recognize every obstacle, including small

obstacles. Parking curbs might be temporarily de-

tected or not detected at all. Obstacles located above

or below the sensors will not be detected when they

are in close proximity.

• The vehicle must be driven slowly when using Rear

Park Assist in order to be able to stop in time when

an obstacle is detected. It is recommended that the

driver looks over his/her shoulder when using Rear

Park Assist.

6

When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE, the rear

camera mode is exited and the last selected touchscreen

appears again.

If your vehicle is equipped with the Camera Delay feature

and it is turned on, the rear camera image will be displayed

for up to 10 seconds when the vehicle is shifted out of

REVERSE unless the forward vehicle speed exceeds 8 mph

(13 km/h), the transmission is shifted into PARK or the

vehicle’s ignition is cycled to the OFF position.

If it’s necessary to keep the ball mount and hitch ball

assembly mounted for a long period, it is possible to filter

out the ball mount and hitch ball assembly presence in

sensor field of view. The filtering operation must be

performed only by an authorized dealer.

When enabled, active guide lines are overlaid on the image

to illustrate the width of the vehicle and its projected

backup path based on the steering wheel position. A

dashed center line overlay indicates the center of the

vehicle to assist with parking.

194 STARTING AND OPERATING

When enabled, fixed guide lines are overlaid on the image

to illustrate the width of the vehicle.

Different colored zones indicate the distance to the rear of

the vehicle.

NOTE: The ParkView Rear Back Up Camera has program-

mable modes of operation that may be selected through the

Uconnect System. Refer to “Uconnect Settings” in “Multi-

media” for further information.

The following table shows the approximate distances for

each zone:

Zone

Red

Distance To The Rear Of The Vehicle

0 - 1 ft (0 - 30 cm)

Yellow

Green

1 ft - 3 ft (30 cm - 1 m)

3 ft or greater (1 m or greater)

WARNING!

CAUTION!

Drivers must be careful when backing up even when

using the ParkView Rear Back Up Camera. Always

check carefully behind your vehicle, and be sure to

check for pedestrians, animals, other vehicles, obstruc-

tions, or blind spots before backing up. You are re-

sponsible for the safety of your surroundings and must

continue to pay attention while backing up. Failure to

do so can result in serious injury or death.

• To avoid vehicle damage, ParkView should only be

used as a parking aid. The ParkView camera is

unable to view every obstacle or object in your drive

path.

• To avoid vehicle damage, the vehicle must be driven

slowly when using ParkView to be able to stop in

time when an obstacle is seen. It is recommended

that the driver look frequently over his/her shoulder

when using ParkView.

STARTING AND OPERATING 195

NOTE: If snow, ice, mud, or any foreign substance builds

up on the camera lens, clean the lens, rinse with water, and

dry with a soft cloth. Do not cover the lens.

NOTE: A funnel is provided (located in the tool bag or

cargo floor area in the rear cargo area) to open the flapper

door to allow for emergency refueling with a gas can.

ADDING FUEL

1. Open the fuel filler door.

2. There is no fuel filler cap. A flapper door inside the pipe

seals the system.

6

3. Insert the fuel nozzle fully into the filler pipe – the

nozzle opens and holds the flapper door while refuel-

ing.

NOTE: Only the correct size nozzle opens the latches

allowing the flapper door to open.

4. Fill the vehicle with fuel – when the fuel nozzle “clicks”

or shuts off the fuel tank is full.

Funnel Location Inside Of Tool Kit

5. Remove the fuel nozzle and close the fuel door.

196 STARTING AND OPERATING

Funnel Location For Vehicle With Optional Spare Tire

Emergency Fuel Filling Procedure

WARNING!

• Never have any smoking materials lit in or near the

vehicle when the fuel door is open or the tank is

being filled.

• Never add fuel when the engine is running. This is

in violation of most state and federal fire regulations

and may cause the “Malfunction Indicator Light” to

turn on.

(Continued)

STARTING AND OPERATING 197

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)

WARNING! (Continued)

The GVWR is the total permissible weight of your vehicle

including driver, passengers, vehicle, options and cargo.

The label also specifies maximum capacities of front and

rear axle systems (GAWR). Total load must be limited so

GVWR and front and rear GAWR are not exceeded.

• A fire may result if fuel is pumped into a portable

container that is inside of a vehicle. You could be

burned. Always place fuel containers on the ground

while filling.

Payload

CAUTION!

The payload of a vehicle is defined as the allowable load

weight a truck can carry, including the weight of the driver,

all passengers, options and cargo.

To avoid fuel spillage and overfilling, do not “top off”

the fuel tank after filling.

6

VEHICLE LOADING

Certification Label

Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR)

The GAWR is the maximum permissible load on the front

and rear axles. The load must be distributed in the cargo

area so that the GAWR of each axle is not exceeded.

As required by National Highway Traffic Safety Adminis-

tration regulations, your vehicle has a certification label

affixed to the driver’s side door or pillar.

Each axle GAWR is determined by the components in the

system with the lowest load carrying capacity (axle,

springs, tires or wheels). Heavier axles or suspension

components sometimes specified by purchasers for in-

creased durability does not necessarily increase the vehi-

cle’s GVWR.

This label contains the month and year of manufacture,

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), Gross Axle Weight

Rating (GAWR) front and rear, and Vehicle Identification

Number (VIN). A Month-Day-Hour (MDH) number is

included on this label and indicates the Month, Day and

Hour of manufacture. The bar code that appears on the

bottom of the label is your VIN.

198 STARTING AND OPERATING

Tire Size

The entire vehicle should first be weighed on a commercial

scale to insure that the GVWR has not been exceeded. The

weight on the front and rear of the vehicle should then be

determined separately to be sure that the load is properly

distributed over the front and rear axle. Weighing the

vehicle may show that the GAWR of either the front or rear

axles has been exceeded but the total load is within the

specified GVWR. If so, weight must be shifted from front to

rear or rear to front as appropriate until the specified

weight limitations are met. Store the heavier items down

low and be sure that the weight is distributed equally. Stow

all loose items securely before driving.

The tire size on the Vehicle Certification Label represents

the actual tire size on your vehicle. Replacement tires must

be equal to the load capacity of this tire size.

Rim Size

This is the rim size that is appropriate for the tire size

listed.

Inflation Pressure

This is the cold tire inflation pressure for your vehicle for

all loading conditions up to full GAWR.

Improper weight distributions can have an adverse effect

on the way your vehicle steers and handles and the way

the brakes operate.

Curb Weight

The curb weight of a vehicle is defined as the total weight

of the vehicle with all fluids, including vehicle fuel, at full

capacity conditions, and with no occupants or cargo loaded

into the vehicle. The front and rear curb weight values are

determined by weighing your vehicle on a commercial

scale before any occupants or cargo are added.

CAUTION!

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR

or the maximum front and rear GAWR. If you do, parts

on your vehicle can break, or it can change the way

your vehicle handles. This could cause you to lose

control. Also overloading can shorten the life of your

vehicle.

Loading

The actual total weight and the weight of the front and rear

of your vehicle at the ground can best be determined by

weighing it when it is loaded and ready for operation.

STARTING AND OPERATING 199

TRAILER TOWING

Trailer towing with this vehicle is not recommended.

RECREATIONAL TOWING (BEHIND MOTORHOME, ETC.)

Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle

Towing Condition

Flat Tow

Wheels OFF The Ground

Automatic Transmission

NOT ALLOWED

OK

NONE

Front

Rear

Dolly Tow

6

NOT ALLOWED

OK

On Trailer

ALL

NOTE: When towing your vehicle, always follow appli-

cable state and provincial laws. Contact state and provin-

cial Highway Safety offices for additional details.

CAUTION!

• DO NOT flat tow any vehicle equipped with an

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 require-

ments can cause severe transmission damage. Dam-

age from improper towing is not covered under the

New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

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).

200 STARTING AND OPERATING

DRIVING TIPS

Traction

When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a

wedge of water to build up between the tire and road

surface. This is hydroplaning and may cause partial or

complete loss of vehicle control and stopping ability. To

reduce this possibility, the following precautions should be

observed:

Driving On Slippery Surfaces

Information in this section will aid in safe controlled

launches in adverse conditions.

Acceleration

Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slippery

surfaces may cause the driving wheels to pull erratically to

the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when there is a

difference in the surface traction under the front (driving)

wheels.

• Slow down during rainstorms or when the roads are

slushy.

• Slow down if the road has standing water or puddles.

• Replace the tires when tread wear indicators first be-

come visible.

WARNING!

• Keep tires properly inflated.

Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is dangerous.

Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the front

wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and

possibly have a collision. Accelerate slowly and care-

fully whenever there is likely to be poor traction (ice,

snow, wet, mud, loose sand, etc.).

• Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and

the vehicle in front of you to avoid a collision in a

sudden stop.

Driving Through Water

Driving through water more than a few inches/centimeters

deep will require extra caution to ensure safety and pre-

vent damage to your vehicle.

STARTING AND OPERATING 201

Flowing/Rising Water

WARNING!

WARNING! (Continued)

• Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s

braking capabilities, which increases stopping dis-

tances. Therefore, after driving through standing

water, drive slowly and lightly press on the brake

pedal several times to dry the brakes.

• Failure to follow these warnings may result in inju-

ries that are serious or fatal to you, your passengers,

and others around you.

Do not drive on or across a road or path where water is

flowing and/or rising (as in storm run-off). Flowing

water can wear away the road or path’s surface and

cause your vehicle to sink into deeper water. Further-

more, flowing and/or rising water can carry your ve-

hicle away swiftly. Failure to follow this warning may

result in injuries that are serious or fatal to you, your

passengers, and others around you.

6

CAUTION!

Shallow Standing Water

• Always check the depth of the standing water before

driving through it. Never drive through standing

water that is deeper than the bottom of the tire rims

mounted on the vehicle.

Although your vehicle is capable of driving through shal-

low standing water, consider the following Cautions and

Warnings before doing so.

• Determine the condition of the road or the path that

is under water and if there are any obstacles in the

way before driving through the standing water.

• Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h) when driving through

standing water. This will minimize wave effects.

WARNING!

• Driving through standing water limits your vehicle’s

traction capabilities. Do not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h)

when driving through standing water.

(Continued)

202 STARTING AND OPERATING

CAUTION! (Continued)

• Driving through standing water may cause damage

to your vehicle’s drivetrain components. Always in-

spect your vehicle’s fluids (i.e., engine oil, transmis-

sion, axle, etc.) for signs of contamination (i.e., fluid

that is milky or foamy in appearance) after driving

through standing water. Do not continue to operate

the vehicle if any fluid appears contaminated, as this

may result in further damage. Such damage is not

covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

• Getting water inside your vehicle’s engine can cause

it to lock up and stall out, and cause serious internal

damage to the engine. Such damage is not covered by

the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Starting And Operating for Your Fiat 500 L 4 Door First Generation (2012-2022)

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