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The best way to preserve the performance and safety characteris-tics of your vehicle is to have it periodically inspected and main-tained.

It may often be necessary to perform the maintenance op-erations marked with the symbol illustrated previously in order toavoid invalidation of the warranty cover.

The following pages contain the Programmed Maintenance Sched-ule and describe the most common checks and inspections whichare fundamental to a correct maintenance schedule.

These operations should be carried out at the intervals indicated inthe Programmed Maintenance Schedule.

PROGRAMMED MAINTENANCE .............................................................. page 202PROGRAMMED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE.................................................... 204ANNUAL INSPECTION PLAN .............................................................................. 206

CHECKING LEVELS, TOPPING UP AND REPLACING .................................... 209AIR CLEANER ........................................................................................................... 221DIESEL FILTER ......................................................................................................... 222DUST/POLLEN FILTER........................................................................................... 222BATTERY .................................................................................................................... 222ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNITS............................................................................ 226SPARK PLUGS.......................................................................................................... 227

WINDSCREEN WIPER BLADES............................................................................ 227SPRAY JETS .............................................................................................................. 228BODYWORK ............................................................................................................. 228INTERIOR FITTINGS ............................................................................................... 231

CAR MAINTENANCE

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PROGRAMMEDMAINTENANCE

PRECAUTIONS

Many moving parts, high voltage cables

and parts that reach high temperatureswhich may cause serious injury to unquali-fied persons are located in the enginecompartment.

The following precautions should there-fore be taken:

Switch off the engine and wait untilit cools.

Be particularly cautious when work-ing near the engine cooling fan as thismay cut in unexpectedly on the basis ofthe engine coolant temperature.

Do not smoke or use naked flame.

Always keep a fire extinguisher tohand.

Do not use the jack supplied with the

car for checking underneath it.

Vehicle maintenance

should be entrusted toan Alfa Romeo Author-

ized Service. For interventions ofroutine maintenance and smallrepairs you wish to carry outyour-self, make sure you alwayshave the proper equipment, gen-uine Alfa Romeo spare parts andthe necessary liquids; do not,however, carry out these opera-tions if you have no experience.

The jack with which thevehicle is fitted must on-

ly be used when changing a wheel.All other operations where the ve-hicle must be lifted require the use

of specific procedures and shouldbe carried out by Alfa Romeo Au-thorized Services.

WARNING

Ensure that scarves, tiesand loose clothing cannot

get caught by moving parts.

WARNING

DANGER-SERIOUS INJU-RY. When carrying out

checks or maintenance operationsin the engine compartment, takespecial care not to bump the head

on the raised bonnet.

WARNING

Never smoke whenworking in the engine

compartment: inflammable gas andvapours may be present which con-stitute a fire hazard.

WARNING

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It is possible to ask the Alfa Romeo Or-ganisation for an estimate of the cost ofservice coupon operations.

IMPORTANT You are advised to con-tact Alfa Romeo Authorized Services inthe event of any minor operating faults,

without waiting for the next service cou-pon.

IMPORTANT The programmed main-tenance coupons are specified by theManufacturer. The failure to have themcarried out may invalidate the warranty.

GENERALITIES

Perfect performance and the life of eve-ry car are strictly connected with correctuse of it, but above all on the care withwhich routine maintenance operations arecarried out for which new programming

criteria have been adopted owing to prod-uct development.

The mileage for programmed mainte-nance coupons is 20,000 km.

It is however wise to remember that thecar still needs routine care such as for in-stance checking and topping up thefluids, checking the tyre pressure, etc.

Correct vehicle maintenance is surelythe best way to preserve its performancelevels, safety and environment protectionfeatures and low running costs over theyears.

Also remember that strictly observingthe maintenance instructions given in thisHandbook marked by the symbol can be a necessary condition for the guar-

antee.

If the car is frequentlyused for towing trailers,the interval between

programmed maintenance opera-tions should be reduced.

Warning, when topping

up never confuse thevarious types of fluidswhich are incompatible and couldseriously damage the vehicle.

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PROGRAMMED MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

thousands of kilometres 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180

Check tyre conditions and wear

Check front disk brake pad wear indicator

Check conditions of rear disk brake pads

Check intactness of axle shaft and power steering boots,joint capsand check brake and fuel lines for leaks

Sight check for conditions: exterior bodyworkand underbody protection (exhaust pipes - fuelsupply - brakes) rubber parts (boots - sleeves - bushes - etc.)

Check for bonnet and boot lock cleanness, lever cleanness and lubrication

Check condition of timing drive belt Sight check for conditions of Poly-V accessory drive belt

Check handbrake lever stroke

Check/adjust valve clearance (JTD 10V versions)

Check (petrol versions) engine exhaust emissions

Check (JTD versions) engine smoke

Check operation of anti evaporation system

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thousands of kilometres 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180

Change fuel filter (diesel versions)

Change air cleaner cartridge (petrol versions)

Change air cleaner cartridge (diesel versions)

Check and if necessary top up fluid level (brakes, hydraulic

clutch, power steering, windscreen wiper, battery, engine coolant, etc.) Replacement of timing gear drive belt (*) and Poly-V accessory drive belt

Replacement of counter-rotating shaf t drive belt (2.0 T.SPARK engine only)

Replacement of spark plugs (petrol versions)

Check operation of engine control systems (through diagnostics socket)

Check manual gearbox and differential oil level

Check electronic automatic gearbox oil level (Sportronic versions)

Change engine oil and oil filter

Change brake fluid (or every 24 months)

Check dust/pollen filter (*) Or every 3 years in harsh conditions (cold climates, stop and go city traffic).

Or every 5 years, regardless of the mileage.

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ANNUAL INSPECTIONPLAN

An annual inspection plan hasbeen established for cars that cov-er less than 20,000 km a year(e.g. 10,000 km). It consists ofthe following:

Checking the condition/wear of tyres,and adjusting pressure (including the com-pact spare wheel, where applicable).

Checking the lighting system (head-lights, turn indicators, hazard warninglights, boot light, passenger compart-

ment, warning lights of instrument panel,etc.).

Checking the working order of thewindscreen wiper-washer and adjustingthe nozzles.

Checking the positioning/wear of thewindscreen wipers.

Checking the condition and wear ofthe front brake pad.

Visually checking the following: en-gine, gearbox, transmission, piping (ex-haust, fuel supply, brakes) rubber items(casings, sleeves, bushings etc.), hosesof braking and supply systems.

Check for bonnet and boot lock clean-

ness, lever cleanness and lubrication. Checking the battery charge condi-

tion.

Visually checking the condition of thebelts and various controls.

Checking and topping up, if neces-sary, the level of liquids (coolant, brakefluid, windscreen washer fluid, battery

etc.). Replacing the engine oil.

Replacing the engine oil filter.

Replacing the pollen filter (only forvehicles with automatic climate control).

ADDITIONAL OPERATIONS

Every 1000 km or before long jour-neys check and if necessary top up:

the engine coolant fluid level

brake fluid/hydraulic clutch control

fluid level power steering fluid level

windscreen washer and headlampwasher fluid level

tyre pressure and conditions.

Every 3000 km check the level ofthe engine oil and top up if necessary.

Every 5000 km (only for fuel oil en-gines): drain the condensation waterfrom the filter. You are recommended touse products of the FL Selenia, de-signed and developed expressly for AlfaRomeo cars (see the table Specificationsof fluids and lubricants in the Technicalspecifications chapter).

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IMPORTANT - Engine oil

Change the engine oil more frequentlythan stated in the Scheduled Mainte-nance Programme if the car is used pre-vailingly in one of the following particular-ly harsh conditions:

trailer or caravan towing dusty roads

short, repeated journeys (less than 7-8 km) with an outside temperature of be-low freezing point.

engine idling frequently or drivinglong distances at low speed (e.g. taxi ordoor-to-door deliveries) or in the case ofprolonged inactivity.

IMPORTANT - Air cleaner

Using the car on dusty roads, changethe air cleaner more frequently than stat-ed in the Scheduled Maintenance Pro-gramme.

For any doubts about the intervals be-

tween engine oil and air cleaner changesin relation to how the car is used, contactAuthorised Alfa Romeo Services.

IMPORTANT - Fuel oil filter

The variety of the degree of purity ofthe fuel oil in commerce may make itnecessary to change the fuel oil filtermore frequently than stated in the Sched-uled Maintenance Programme. If the en-

gine is sobbing it is a sign that the fil-ter needs changing.

IMPORTANT - Pollen filter

If the car is used frequently in dusty orheavily polluted environments, you arerecommended to change the activatedcarbon filtering element more frequently;in particular, it should be changed if a

lower flow of air admitted to the passen-ger compartment is noted.

IMPORTANT - Batteries

You are recommended to have the bat-tery charge conditions checked, prefer-ably at the onset of winter, to avoid thepossibility of freezing the electrolyte.

This check should be carried out more

frequently if the car is used prevailinglyfor short journeys, or if it is fitted withservices that absorb high amounts of cur-rent permanently with the ignition keyoff, especially if installed in the after mar-ket.

In the case of use of the car in hot cli-mates or particularly harsh conditions, itis wise to check the level of the battery

fluid (electrolyte) at more frequent inter-vals than stated in the Scheduled Mainte-nance Programme.

IMPORTANT - Remote control

If when pressing the remote control but-ton of the key, the operating led on thekey flashes briefly only once, the batteryneed replacing with other of the sametype.

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When topping up takecare not to confuse thevarious types of fluids:

they are all incompatible andcould seriously damage the car.

If the vehicle is fre-quently used for towingtrailers, the interval be-

tween one programmed mainte-nance and the next should be re-duced.

Vehicle maintenanceshould be entrusted tothe Alfa Romeo Service

Network. For ordinary and minoroperations you can do yourself,always make sure you have ade-quate tools, original Alfa Romeospares and the correct fluids. Donot carry out these operations ifyou have no experience.

Never smoke duringwork in the engine com-

partment: there is the possibilityof inflammable gas and vapourswith the risk of fire.

WARNING

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CHECKING LEVELS, TOPPING UP AND REPLACING

2.0 T.SPARK version

k1) engine oil

2) brake and

clutch fluid

+3) windscreen

washer fluid

n4) engine coolant

fluid

5) power steering

fluid

fig. 1

A0D0117m

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2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24V versions

fig. 2

k1) engine oil

2) brake and

clutch fluid

+3) windscreen

washer fluid

n4) engine coolant

fluid

5) power steering

fluid

A0D0099m

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3.2 V6 24V version

fig. 3

k1) engine oil

2) brake and

clutch fluid

+3) windscreen

washer fluid

n4) engine coolant

fluid

5) power steering

fluid

A0D0099m

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JTD version

fig. 4

k1) engine oil

2) brake and

clutch fluid

+3) windscreen

washer fluid

n4) engine coolant

fluid

5) power steering

fluid

A0D0118m

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JTD 20V Multijet versions

fig. 5

k1) engine oil

2) brake and

clutch fluid

+3) windscreen

washer fluid

n4) engine coolant

fluid

5) power steering

fluid

A0D0112m

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fig. 6 - 2.0 T.SPARK version fig. 8 - JTD version

PROTECTIVE SHIELD UNDERENGINE

The car is fitted with a protective shieldunder the engine.

IMPORTANT When changing the en-gine oil and filter, checking and changing

the gearbox and differential oil, this pro-tection should be removed. This operationshould be carried out by Alfa Romeo Au-thorized Services.

CHECKING ENGINE OIL LEVEL

Fig. 6: 2.0 T.SPARK version

Fig. 7: 2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24V3.2 V6 24V versions

Fig. 8: JTD version

Fig. 9: JTD 20V Multijet versions

The engine oil level should be checkedwhen the vehicle is standing on a levelsurface a few minutes (about 5) after theengine has been switched off.

Remove the dipstick (A), clean it, thenre-insert it completely, remove it once againand check that the level is between theMIN and MAX marks on the dipstick.

The interval between the MIN and MAXmarks corresponds to approximately 1litre of oil.

Max. engine oil consumption is usually400 grams every 1000 km.

fig. 7 - 2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24V3.2 V6 24V versions

424PGSm

455PGSm

423PGSm

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fig. 9 - JTD 20V Multijet versions

When the car is new, the engine needsto run in, therefore the engine oil con-sumption can only be considered sta-bilised after the first 5000-6000 km.

The oil consumption depends on drivingstyle and the conditions under which thecar is used.

fig. 11 - 2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24V3.2 V6 24V versions

TOPPING UP ENGINE OIL

Fig. 10: 2.0 T.SPARK versionFig. 11: 2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24V

3.2 V6 24V versionsFig. 12: JTD versionFig. 13: JTD 20V Multijet versions

When the level falls to the MIN mark,cap (B) should be removed and the sys-tem topped up to the MAX mark throughthe filler neck.

Do not exceed the MAX mark when top-ping up with engine oil.

IMPORTANT After topping up the en-gine oil, before checking the level, run theengine a few seconds and wait for a fewminutes (approx. 5) after stopping it.

fig. 10 - 2.0 T.SPARK version

To avoid burns particularcare should be taken

when working inside the enginecompartment when the engine iswarm.

WARNING

556PGSm

A0D0113m

520PGSm

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Never add oil withcharacteristics (classifi-cation, viscosity) which

are different from those of theoil already in the circuit.

fig. 12 - JTD version fig. 13 - JTD 20V Multijet versions

Remember that when theengine is warm the elec-

tric fan, which is operated on thebasis of the engine coolant tem-perature, could cut-in automatical-

ly and cause injury.

WARNING

Never exceed the MAXlevel when topping up or

changing engine oil. Too much en-gine oil would cause it to be tak-en in through the blow-by cylinder.

For JTD versions this can rapidly in-crease the engine speed (no longercontrollable, in this case, by re-leasing the accelerator pedal andmoving the ignition key to STOP)and damage to the engine with therisk of seizing or fire.

WARNING

A0D0114m

523PGSm

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The antifreeze mixturecontained in the coolingcircuit guarantees pro-

tection down to 35C.

CHECKING AND TOPPING-UPENGINE COOLANT (fig. 14)

Periodically check that the level of fluidin the expansion tank when cold and withthe car on level ground, is betweenMIN and MAX.

If the level is too low, unscrew cap (A)on the expansion tank and top-up.

Top up only with thesame fluid contained inthe cooling circuit.

A0D0100m

fig. 14

The cooling system ispressurised. If necessary

replace the cap only with anotheroriginal one, otherwise the effi-ciency of the system could be com-

promised.

WARNING

To avoid being burnt,when the engine is hot do

not remove the cap from the ex-pansion tank.

WARNING

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CHECKING POWER STEERINGOIL LEVEL

Fig. 15: 2.0 T.SPARK - JTD - 3.2 V624V versions

Fig. 16: 2.0 T.SPARK - JTD - JTD 20VMultijet versions

Fig. 17: 2.5 V6 24V - 3.0 V6 24Vversions

fig. 15 - 2.0 T.SPARK - JTDJTD 20V Multijet versions

fig. 16 - 2.0 T.SPARK - JTDJTD 20V Multijet versions

fig. 17 - 2.5 V6 24V 3.0 V6 24V3.2 V6 24V versions

Check that the oil in the reservoir is atthe maximum level.

This operation must be carried out withthe car on level ground and when the en-gine is stationary and cold.

On 2.0 T.SPARK, JTD and JTD 20V Multi-

jet versions access to the reservoir is gainedby removing the cover (A-fig. 15) afterturning the fastening pins withdraw thetube (B-fig. 16).

Slacken the cap (C-fig. 16-17) andcheck that the level corresponds to thereference notch of the maximum level onthe dipstick which is an integral part ofthe cap.

TOPPING UP THE POWERSTEERING OIL

If the level of the oil in the power steer-ing reservoir falls below the specified lev-el, top up only with one of the productslisted in he table of Specifications of flu-ids and lubricants in the Technical speci-fications chapter as follows.

Start the engine and allow the oil inthe reservoir to settle.

When the engine is running turn thesteering wheel lock to lock a few times.

Top up the MAX level notch and thenreplace the cover.

A0D0115m

A0D0101m

A0D0116m

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IMPORTANT Contact Alfa Romeo Au-thorized Services for maintenance and re-pair operations.

Oil consumption is verylow; if topping up againis needed shortly after-

wards, have the system checkedfor possible leaks by Alfa RomeoAuthorized services.

CHECKING AND TOPPING UPTHE BRAKE AND CLUTCHFLUID (fig. 18)

Check that the liquid contained in thereservoir reaches the maximum mark.When periodically topping up or changing(which should in any case be carried outevery two years) only the products listedin the table of Specifications of fluidsand lubricants in the Technical specifica-tions chapter should be used.

From time to time check the instrumentpanel warning light by pressing cover (B)of the reservoir (A) (with the ignitionkey atMAR) the instrument warningpanel lightx should come on.

On 2.0 T.SPARK, JTD and JTD 20V Mul-tijet versions insert the tube on the capand refit the cover fastening with thethree screws.

Do not allow powersteering fluid to touch hot

engine parts: it is inflammable.

WARNING

A0D0102m

fig. 18

219

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CHECKING AND TOPPING UPTHE WINDSCREEN/HEADLIGHT

WASHER FLUID (fig. 19-20)

Access to the windscreen/headlightwasher fluid reservoir, remove the cover(A-fig. 19) after turning the pins (B).

Then remove the cap (C-fig. 20) andpour the fluid in the tank until the levelcan be seen through the filler neck.

Then close the filler with the cap and re-fit the cover fastening with the two pins.

To avoid damaging thepump motor do not usethe windscreen washers

when the reservoir is empty.

When the cap (B) isscrewed off the reser-voir ensure that the

electrical connections are not dis-connected. Do not allow theliquid to come into contact withpainted components. If it does,

wash it off immediately withwater.

A0D0104m

A0D0103m

fig. 19 fig. 20

Symbol on the con-tainer indicates synthetic

type brake fluid distinguishing itfrom the mineral kind. Using min-

eral type fluids damages the spe-cial rubber braking system gasketsbeyond repair.

WARNING

Brake and clutch fluid ispoisonous and corrosive.

In the event of contact wash theparts concerned immediately withneutral soap and water, then rinsethoroughly. See a doctor at once ifthe fluid is swallowed.

WARNING

Some commercial addi-tives for windscreen

washers are inflammable. The en-gine compartment contains hotcomponents which could set it on

WARNING

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Any attempt to cleanthe air cleaner maycause serious engine

damage.

If they are not carriedout correctly and withthe due precautions, the

operations involving cleaner re-placement described herein maycompromise the safety of thecar. This operation should be car-ried out by Alfa Romeo Autho-rized Services.

AIR CLEANER

The air cleaner is connected to the tem-perature and air flow sensors which sendthe electrical signals needed for correctoperation of the injection and ignition sys-

tem to the control unit.It must therefore always be in perfect

conditions to ensure correct operation ofthe engine, low consumption and exhaustemission levels.

When the car is habitu-ally driven in dusty ar-eas, the cleaner should

be changed at shorter intervalsthan those given in the Pro-grammed Maintenance Schedule.

IMPORTANT When topping up usethe special detergents available in theshops ensuring that they contain antis-cale and antifreeze properties.

If in doubt contact Alfa Romeo Autho-

rized Services who will be able to recom-mend the most suitable products.

Do not travel with thewindscreen washer

reservoir empty: the action of thewindscreen washer is fundamentalfor improving vision.

WARNING

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DUST/POLLEN FILTER

The filter mechanically/electrostaticallyfilters the air provided that the windowsare shut.

The dust/pollen filter should be checked

over once a year by Alfa Romeo Autho-rized Service station preferably at the be-ginning of the summer.

If the vehicle is habitually driven incities, motorways or on dusty roads thesystem should be checked over more of-ten than specified in the ProgrammedMaintenance Schedule.

IMPORTANT If the filter is not re-placed the efficiency of the climate con-trol system may be seriously compro-mised.

DIESEL FILTER

DRAINING CONDENSATIONWATER

BATTERY

The battery (fig. 22) is housed on theleft-hand side of the boot, protected by acover.

On versions without navigation system

and without CD player, access to the bat-tery is gained by slackening the knob(A-fig. 21) and removing the batterycover.

On versions with navigation system and/or CD player, access to the battery isgained by slackening the knobs (A-fig.22) and removing the cover (B).

Water in the supply cir-

cuit can seriously dam-age the whole injection

system and cause malfunctionsto engine operation. Should thewarning lamp c, contact assoon as possible the Alfa RomeoAuthorised Service for drainageoperations.

fig. 21

341PGSm

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Serious damage may becaused to the vehicle ifelectrical accessories

are incorrectly installed. If, afterpurchasing your vehicle, youwish to install accessories (theftalarm, voice feature, satellite ra-

dio-navigator with antitheftfunction, etc.) contact AlfaRomeo Authorized Serviceswhose qualified personnel in ad-dition to being able to recom-mend the most suitable devicesfrom Lineaccessori will determinewhether it will be necessary toinstall a more powerful battery.

If the car is to remainstationary for a long

time in very cold weath-er, remove the battery and take itto a warm place, otherwise itmight freeze.

The battery adopted is of the LimitedMaintenance type and under normalconditions of use will not require toppingup.

The level of the electrolyte solutionmust however be between the MIN andMAX reference marks when the vehicle is

stationary on a level surface (fig. 23).

If the level is low, con-tact Alfa Romeo Autho-rized Services.

The batteries containsubstances which areextremely harmful to

the environment. Alfa RomeoAuthorized Services should becontacted when equipped to dis-pose of the batteries respecting

both the environment and legalrequirements.

3101CAm

fig. 23

A0D0107m

fig. 22

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CHARGING THE BATTERY

IMPORTANT The description of thebattery charging procedure is describedonly for informative purposes. This opera-tion should be carried out by AuthorizedAlfa Romeo Services.

Charging should be slow at a low amprating for about 24 hours. Charging for alonger time may damage the battery.

Charge the battery as follows:

If the car is fitted with an alarm sys-tem, turn off the alarm with the remotecontrol and deactivate the system turningthe emergency key to OFF (see Elec-tronic alarm in the chapter Getting to

know your car).

Disconnect the terminals of the elec-tric system from the battery poles.

Connect the charger cables to the bat-tery.

Turn on the charger.

After charging turn off the charger be-

fore disconnecting it from the battery.

Re-connect the terminals to the bat-tery poles correctly.

Turn the ignition key to MAR andleave it in this position for 30 seconds to1 minute, then turn to STOP for about 5to 10 seconds, after which the enginecan be started.

Remember to reactivate the alarmsystem (if present) turning the emer-gency switch to ON.

The wrong electric andelectronic accessory in-stallation may cause se-

vere vehicle damages.

When doing any work onthe battery or near it, al-

ways wear special protective gog-gles.

Working with the fluidlevel too low damages

the battery irreparably, evenbreaking the body and completelyleaking the acid contained.

WARNING

WARNING

f d k h lb k b l

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Before doing any work on the electricsystem, disconnect the battery negativeterminal.

If after purchasing the car, you wish toinstall electrical accessories which need apermanent electrical supply (alarm,hands-free phone, radio-navigator with

satellite anti-theft function, etc.) contactAuthorised Alfa Romeo Services whosequalified personnel, in addition to sug-gesting the most suitable devices fromLineaccessori will be able to evaluate thetotal electrical absorption, checkingwhether the cars electric system is ableto support the load required or whether abattery with higher capacity is necessary.

In fact, these devices continue to absorbcurrent with the ignition key off (carparked, engine off) and may graduallydrain the battery.

IMPORTANT A battery kept at below50% of its capacity is damaged by sul-phation, the capacity is reduced and start-ing is difficult, there is also more possibili-ty of freezing (this can occur at 10C).In the event of a prolonged stop, refer toVehicle inactivity.

USEFUL HINTS TO EXTENDTHE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERY

To avoid quickly draining the batteryand to preserve its operating conditionsover the course of time, carefully followthe instructions below.

The terminals must always be tight-ened.

As far as possible avoid keeping ser-vices on for a long time with the enginestopped (radio, hazard warning lights,parking lights, etc.).

When leaving the vehicle parked in agarage, make sure that the doors, bon-

net, boot and interior lids are properlyshut to prevent lights from staying on.

The fluid contained in thebattery is poisonous and

corrosive. Avoid contact with theskin or eyes. The battery should becharged in a ventilated place awayfrom naked flames or possiblesources of sparks: danger of ex-plosion and fire.

WARNING

Never attempt to charge

a frozen battery beforethawing it, the danger of explosionexists. If it has frozen, alwayscheck that the inside elements arenot broken (risk of short circuit)and that the body is not cracked,with the risk of acid coming outwhich is poisonous and corrosive.

WARNING

h b d f h hi l h lTh l b i f h i ELECTRONIC CONTROL

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out on the body of the vehicle the elec-tronic control units must be disconnectedor removed if the work involves the pro-duction of high temperatures.

The total absorption of these accessories(standard and installed later) must be0.6 mA x Ah (of the battery), as shownin the table below:

BatteryMaximum permissibleloadless absorption

100 Ah 60 mA

You are also reminded that services withhigh current absorption activated by theuser, such as bottle warmers, vacuumcleaners, cellular telephone, mini refriger-ator, etc. accelerate the battery drainageprocess if they are powered with the en-gine not running.

IMPORTANT It should also be notedthat improper branches on connectors ofthe electric wiring for installing additionalequipment is dangerous, particularly ifsafety devices are involved.

ELECTRONIC CONTROLUNITS

With normal use of the vehicle no par-ticular precautions need to be taken.

If interventions are to be carried out on

the electrical system or emergency start-ing the following must be heeded:

Always switch off the engine beforedisconnecting the battery from the electri-cal system.

If battery charging is necessary dis-connect it from the electric system.

When starting in an emergency only

an auxiliary battery must be used and nota battery charger.

Check that the polarity is correct andthat the connections between the batteryand the electrical system are sound.

Before connecting or disconnectingthe terminals of the electronic units en-sure that the ignition key is not in theMAR position.

Do not check for current in the cablesby short-circuiting the ends.

If electrical welding is to be carried

If additional systems areto be installed on the ve-

hicle the danger of incorrectly tak-ing branches from the electricalwires cannot be emphasized toostrongly especially if devices es-sential to the safety of the vehi-cle and its occupants are involved(ignition, injection, ABS ...). The in-correct installation of radio sys-tems, electronic theft alarms, ra-diotelephones etc. can interferewith the electronic control units andcompromises the warranty cover.For these interventions we re-com-mend that you contact Alfa RomeoAuthorized Services.The loadless absorption of all the

accessories installed in the aftermarket must not exceed 20 mA(reading with the vehicle station-ary).

WARNING

I t bl d i it th hWINDSCREEN WIPERSPARK PLUGS

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Insert a new blade passing it throughthe curved top of the arm (A) throughthe slot.

Lift the blade to clamp tab (B) of thecoupling spring with the curved top of thearm.

IMPORTANT The blades may differaccording to the versions. In any case,follow the instructions provided in thepacks available as spares from AlfaRomeo Authorized Services.

IMPORTANT On 2.0 T.SPARK engineremoving the spark plug caps requires the

use of a special tool which avoids dam-age: therefore for this operation you arerecommended to contact Authorized AlfaRomeo Services.

WINDSCREEN WIPERBLADES (fig. 24)

Periodically clean the wiper blades andensure that they are not damaged. If therubber blades are bent of worn in parts

they should be replaced, as follows: Press the tab (B) of the blade catch

spring and push the blade towards thebase of the arm (A).

When the catch spring has been freedfrom the curved top of the arm, withdrawthe blade from the arm through the slot.

The spark plugs must bechanged at intervalsgiven in the Pro-

grammed Maintenance Schedule.Only use spark plugs of the spec-ified type (see table of FuelSupply and Ignition in theTechnical specifications chap-ter): if the thermal grade is inad-equate, or the foreseen life isnot guaranteed inconveniencesmay result.

SPARK PLUGS

If the engine is running unevenly havethe spark plugs checked by Alfa RomeoAuthorized Services.

624PGSm

fig. 24

Application of enamels with greaterSPRAY JETS BODYWORK

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Application of enamels with greaterresistance to atmospheric pollutants.

Adoption of open boxed parts toprevent condensation from triggering cor-rosion from the inside.

The underbody is treated with the appli-

cation of a special protective material.If this protective layer requires restora-

tion the exhaust system, lambda probeand catalytic converter must be left freeof any wax, oil, plastic and/or inflamma-ble product.

This should therefore be carried out byAlfa Romeo Authorized Services.

SPRAY JETS

Make sure that the windscreen andheadlight washer jets deliver a jet of fluidwhich is adequate and correctly directed.

If the spray devices are not working

check that the supply c ircuit is notblocked. If necessary unclog the nozzlesusing a needle.

BODYWORK

PROTECTION FROMATMOSPHERIC AGENTS

Alfa Romeo employs manufacturingtechnologies which are designed to pro-

tect the bodywork against chemical corro-sion caused by various factors, for exam-ple:

atmospheric pollution.

Salty air and humidity (coastal areas,hot-humid climates).

Road surfaces covered with salt andde-icing products during the winter.

To further increase resistance againstcorrosion the following procedures havebeen adopted:

painting system and paint productswhich render the vehicle particularly resis-tant to corrosion and abrasion.

Wide use of sheet metal which is ex-tremely resistant to corrosion.

Spraying of the underbody, enginebay, wheel arches and boxed parts withsuitable products which adhere stronglyto the metal parts and have a high pro-tection capability.

The characteristics of these products areRECOMMENDATIONS TO PAINT

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The characteristics of these products arecompatible with the type of paint, gas-kets and trim of all Alfa Romeo vehicles.

The application of these products shouldhowever be carried out by Alfa Romeopersonnel who will be able to guaranteethe best results and avoid problems which

may compromise the bodywork warrantycover.

To correctly wash the car, proceed as fol-lows:

1) Spray the vehicle with a low pres-sure jet of water.

2) Pass a sponge moistened with alight detergent solution (2-4% shampooin water) over the bodywork rinsing the

sponge frequently.3) Rinse well with water and dry with a

jet of air or chamois leather.

Detergents cause waterpollution. The car shouldtherefore be washed in

areas equipped for the collectionand purification of the liquid usedin the washing processes.

RECOMMENDATIONS TOPRESERVE THE BODYWORK

Particular care should be taken to en-sure that residual deposits of industrialdust, tar spots, dead insects etc. do notremain on the bodywork.

Where possible do not park under treesas, during certain seasons, residues, budsand leaves containing chemical sub-stances which are harmful to the paintmay fall onto the vehicle.

When topping up ensure that petrol, lu-bricating oil, brake fluid, liquid for thecooling system, battery electrolyte solu-tion etc. is not splashed onto the body-

work.If this should occur however, clean the

area immediately and wash the vehicleas soon as possible.

PAINT

The paintwork does not only serve anaesthetic purpose but also protects theunderlying sheet metal.

In the case of deep scrapes or scoresyou are advised to have the necessarytouching up carried out immediately by aspecialised workshop to avoid the forma-tion of rust.

Normal paint maintenance consists inwashing at intervals depending on theconditions and environment of use.

For example:

in areas with high atmospheric pollu-tion.

Roads sprayed with salt.

Parking under trees that releaseresinous substances.

It is wise to wash the car more frequently.

Alfa Romeo markets a complete seriesof products specifically designed for thecare and cleanliness of its vehicles (sham-poo, wax, touch-up paint stick, stain re-mover, polish etc.).

When drying off take particular care to WINDOWS ENGINE COMPARTMENT

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IMPORTANT The vehicle should bewashed with the engine cold and the igni-tion key turned to STOP. After washingmake sure that the various protections(e.g. rubber caps and recess covers) havenot been damaged or removed.

When drying off take particular care tocover the less visible parts like the bonnetand boot lids and around the headlightswhere water may stagnate.

The vehicle should not be taken to anenclosed area immediately but left in theopen so that the residual water can evap-

orate.Do not wash the vehicle after it has

been left in the sun or when the bonnetis hot as this may alter the shine of thepaintwork.

Plastic parts must be cleaned in thesame way as the rest of the vehicle. Spe-cific products need only be used when dirtis particularly resistant.

IMPORTANT Bird droppings must bewashed off immediately as the acid con-tained in them is particularly aggressive.

To better protect the paint, occasionallypolish with special products (siliconewax) which leave a protective layer onthe body.

WINDOWS

Use specific products to clean the win-dows. Clean cloths should be used toavoid scratching or altering the trans-parency of the glass.

ENGINE COMPARTMENT

At the end of the winter the enginecompartment should be carefully washed.Contact a specialised workshop to havethis done.

The inside of the rearwindscreen should bewiped gently with a

cloth in the direction of the fila-ments to avoid damaging theheating device.

Detergents cause waterpollution. The car shouldtherefore be washed in

areas equipped for the collectionand purification of the liquid usedin the washing processes.

INTERIOR FITTINGSF hi th i CLEANING LEATHER PARTS

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INTERIOR FITTINGS

Periodically check that water is nottrapped under the carpets (due to waterdripping off shoes, umbrellas etc.) whichcould cause oxidisation of the sheet metal.

CLEANING SEATS AND CLOTHPARTS

For the seats and parts in fabric (vel-vet, suede, etc.)dust may be removed us-ing a soft brush.

To remove grease stains specific prod-ucts may be used closely following themanufacturers instructions.

For more accurate cleaning, rub theseats with a sponge moistened with a so-lution of water and neutral detergent inthe proportions stated on the package.

Never use spirit or alco-hol-based products.

For washing the enginecompartment, you arerecommended to use

FULCRON available in AlfaRomeo Lineaccessori. In anycase, only use soda-free deter-gent solutions preferably alka-

lined with metasilicates.After washing the engine com-

partment it must be accuratelyrinsed with a specific operationand dried. In fact the normalpassage of the body washingtunnel is unable to rinse the en-gine compartment adequately.

CLEANING LEATHER PARTS

Remove dried on dirt with a chamoisleather or a lightly moistened cloth with-out pressing too hard.

Remove liquid and grease stains witha dry absorbent cloth without rubbing.Following this wipe with a soft cloth orchamois leather moistened with waterand neutral soap.

If the stain persists use specific productsin accordance with the instructions foruse.

Never use inflammableproducts such as fuel oil

ether or rectified petrol. The elec-trostatic charges generated by rub-bing when cleaning may cause fire.

WARNING

PLASTIC PARTS I.C.S. MASK AND CENTRALNever use spirit or

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PLASTIC PARTS

Should it be necessary to remove dust,dirt, etc. from the surface of the light u-nits (and/or direction indicators) only usea solution of neutral soap and water anda soft cloth.

Absolutely never use chemical solventsand/or petroleum derivatives such aspetrol, methylated spirits, ammonia, ace-tone, etc. which could spoil the materialand reduce its transparency, adversely af-fecting travelling safety.

For internal plastic parts use specificproducts to preserve the appearance ofthe components.

I.C.S. MASK AND CENTRALCONSOLE

Remove finger prints with common alco-hol-free water and surfactants glass deter-gent. Rub surfaces with a clean cottonrag moistened with detergent.

Never use spirit orpetrol to clean the glasson the instrument panel.

Do not keep aerosol cansin the car. There is the

risk they might explode. Aerosolcans must never be exposed to atemperature above 50C. The tem-perature inside the car might gowell beyond that figure when ex-

posed to the suns rays.

WARNING