BATTERY
❒ switch off all roof lights inside the
vehicle: the vehicle is however
IMPORTANT If the charge level remains
under 50% for a long time, the battery
is damaged by sulphation, reducing
its capacity and efficiency at start-up.
The battery is also more prone to the
risk of freezing (at temperatures of
-10°C). Refer to the "Vehicle inactivity"
paragraph in "Starting and driving"
chapter if the vehicle is left parked for a
long time.
equipped with a system which switches
all interior lights off automatically;
167) 168) 169)
65)
6)
❒ do not keep accessories (e.g. radio,
hazard warning lights, etc.) switched on
for a long time when the engine is not
running;
The battery does not require the
electrolyte to be topped up with distilled
water.
❒ before performing any operation on
the electrical system, disconnect the
negative battery cable.
A periodic check carried out at a Fiat
Dealership is, however, necessary
to check efficiency.
If, after purchasing the vehicle, you wish
to install electrical accessories which
require permanent electrical supply (e.g.
alarm, etc.) or accessories which
influence the electrical supply
WARNING
Replacing the battery
159) Never smoke while working in the
engine compartment: gas and inflammable
vapours may be present, with the risk of
fire.
If necessary, replace the battery with
another original battery with the same
specifications. Follow the battery
Manufacturer’s instructions for
maintenance.
requirements, contact a Fiat Dealership,
whose qualified staff will evaluate the
overall electrical consumption.
160) Be very careful when working in the
engine compartment when the engine
is hot: you may get burned. Do not get too
close to the radiator cooling fan: the
electric fan may start; danger of injury.
Scarves, ties and other loose clothing
might be pulled by moving parts.
66)
USEFUL ADVICE FOR
EXTENDING THE LIFE OF
YOUR BATTERY
IMPORTANT After the battery is
disconnected, the steering must be
Useful advice for extending the life
of your battery
initialised. The
warning light on the
161) If the engine oil is being topped up,
wait for the engine to cool down before
loosening the filler cap, particularly for
vehicles with aluminium cap (where
provided). WARNING: risk of burns!
instrument panel (or symbol on the
display) switches on to indicate this. To
carry out this procedure, simply turn
the steering wheel all the way from one
end to the other or drive in a straight
line for about a hundred metres.
To avoid draining your battery and
make it last longer, observe the
following instructions:
162) The cooling system is pressurised. If
the cap needs replacing, do so with
another original or the effectiveness of the
system may be compromised. Do not
remove the reservoir plug when the engine
is hot: you risk scalding yourself.
❒ when you park the vehicle, ensure
that the doors, tailgate and bonnet are
closed properly, to prevent any lights
from remaining on inside the passenger
compartment;
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