2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider Engine Oil and Fluids

When you step on the gas pedal of the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider, the finely tuned engine thrills you. That’s why it’s important to know how important engine oil and fluids are to keeping this Italian sports car running smoothly. These important liquids keep the 4C Spider’s engine running at its best, making sure it lasts a long time and is reliable. This guide goes into great detail about the 2019 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider’s engine oil and fluids. From the carefully designed engine oil that keeps internal parts clean to the perfectly balanced coolant and brake fluid that protects important systems, no detail is left out. We go over the different kinds, their specs, how often they should be changed, and the necessary maintenance steps so that both car fans and owners can take care of the fine engineering that makes this sports car so special and make sure it keeps giving you the thrill it was made to give you.

Engine Oil

Change Engine Oil
The oil change indicator system will remind you that it is time to take your vehicle in for scheduled maintenance. Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” for further information.
NOTE: The actual interval for changing the oil and replacing the engine oil filter depends on the vehicle usage conditions and is signaled by the warning light or message (if present) on the instrument panel or every 12 months.

Engine Oil Selection
For best performance and maximum protection for turbocharged engines under all types of operating conditions, the manufacturer recommends synthetic engine oils that are API Certified and meet the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS-12991.

Engine Oil Viscosity — 1750 Turbo Engine (SAE Grade)
SAE 5W-40 full synthetic engine oil is recommended for all operating temperatures. This engine oil improves low-temperature starting and vehicle fuel economy. Lubricants that do not have both the engine oil certification mark and the correct SAE viscosity grade number should not be used.

Materials Added To Engine Oil
The manufacturer strongly recommends against the addition of any additives (other than leak detection dyes) to the engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and its performance may be impaired by supplemental additives.

Disposing Of Used Engine Oil And Oil Filters
Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil and oil filters from your vehicle. Used oil and oil filters, indiscriminately discarded, can present a problem to the environment. Contact an authorized dealer, service station or governmental agency for advice on how and where used oil and oil filters can be safely discarded in your area.

Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be replaced with a new filter at every engine oil change.

Engine Oil Filter Selection
This manufacturer’s engines have a full-flow type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replacement. The quality of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high-quality filters should be used to ensure the most efficient service. Mopar engine oil filters are high-quality oil filters and are recommended.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.
NOTE: Be sure to follow the “Severe Duty Conditions” maintenance interval if applicable.
WARNING: The air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) can provide a measure of protection in the case of engine backfires. Do not remove the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) unless such removal is necessary for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the engine compartment before starting the vehicle with the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) removed. Failure to do so can result in serious personal injury.

Engine Air Cleaner Filter Selection
The quality of replacement engine air cleaner filters varies considerably. Only high-quality filters should be used to ensure the most efficient service. Mopar engine air cleaner filters are a high quality filter and are recommended.

Engine Cover
To avoid possible damage to the engine cover, please disconnect each of the four mounting studs by pulling the engine cover upward, and then lift off the complete cover. Tilting the engine cover when one or more studs are still engaged will lead to premature failure of the couplers. To reassemble the cover back onto the engine, first, make sure it is properly aligned, the oil cap is centered, and all four studs are lined up with their couplers. Then gently push on the four corners of the engine cover to snap the stud back into position.
No tools are required to remove or reassemble the engine cover.

Air Conditioner Maintenance
For the best possible performance, your air conditioner should be checked and serviced by an authorized dealer at the start of each warm season. This service should include cleaning of the condenser fins and a performance test. Drive belt tension should also be checked at this time.
WARNING: 

• Use only refrigerants and compressor lubricants approved by the manufacturer for your air conditioning system. Some unapproved refrigerants are flammable and can explode, injuring you. Other unapproved refrigerants or lubricants can cause the system to fail, requiring costly repairs. Refer to Warranty Information Book, for further warranty information.
• The air conditioning system contains refrigerant under high pressure. To avoid the risk of personal injury or damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be done by an experienced technician.

CAUTION: Do not use chemical flushes in your air condition-ing system as the chemicals can damage your air conditioning components. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling — R–1234yf
R–1234yf Air Conditioning Refrigerant is a hydrofluoric-or olefin (HFO) that is endorsed by the Environmental Protection Agency and is an ozone-friendly substance with a low global warming potential. The manufacturer recommends that air conditioning service be performed by an authorized dealer using recovery and recycling equipment.
NOTE: Use only manufacturer-approved A/C system PAG compressor oil, and refrigerants.

Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as seat tracks, door hinge pivot points and rollers, liftgate, tailgate, decklid, sliding doors, and hood hinges, should be lubricated periodically with a lithium-based grease, such as Mopar Spray White Lube to assure quiet, easy operation and to protect against rust and wear. Prior to the application of any lubricant, the parts concerned should be wiped clean to remove dust and grit; after lubricating excess oil and grease should be removed. Particular attention should also be given to hood-latching components to ensure proper function. When performing other underhood services, the hood latch, release mechanism, and safety catch should be cleaned and lubricated. The external lock cylinders should be lubricated twice a year, preferably in the Fall and Spring. Apply a small amount of high-quality lubricant, such as Mopar Lock Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder.

Wiper Blades
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades, the windshield, and the rear window periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild nonabrasive cleaner. This will remove accumulations of salt, waxes, or road film, and help reduce streaking and smearing.
Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield or rear window.
Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from the windshield or rear window. Make sure that they are not frozen to the glass before turning them on to avoid damaging the blade. Keep the wiper blade out of contact with petroleum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.
NOTE: The life expectancy of wiper blades varies depending on geographical area and frequency of use. Poor performance of blades may be present with chattering, marks, water lines, or wet spots. If any of these conditions are present, clean the wiper blades or replace them as necessary.

Blade Lifting
If it is necessary to lift the blade from the windshield (In the event of snow or blade replacement) Proceed as directed:

1. Rotate the end of the multifunction lever to the OFF position.
2. Turn the ignition to the MAR-ON position and then to STOP.
3. After turning the ignition to the STOP, within two minutes move the right stalk upward, into the un-stable (“anti-panic”) position, for at least half of a second. The windshield wiper then executes part of a stroke; at each command, approximately 1/3 of a normal wiper stroke is triggered.
   NOTE: The previous operation can be repeated up to three times. In order to move the blades to the most suitable position.
4. Lift the blade from the windshield and proceed with the required operation.
5. Carefully lower the blade, bringing it back in contact with the windshield.
6. Bring the blade to the initial rest position, turning the ignition to MAR-ON.
   NOTE: Do not operate the screen wiper with the blades lifted from the windshield.

Front Wiper Blade Removal/Installation

1. Lift the front wiper arm upward to raise the wiper blade off of the windshield.
2. Push the release button on the arm of the wiper blade.
3. Push the wiper blade up and remove it.
   1. WiperBlade
   2. Release Button
   3. WiperArm
4. Install the wiper blade and firmly push the wiper blade until it snaps into place.

Windshield Washer Nozzles
The windshield washer nozzles are adjustable. They originally adjusted at the factory. Should it be necessary to adjust them again, contact your authorized Alfa Romeo Dealer. If there is not a jet of fluid, first check that there is fluid in the washer reservoir. Refer to “Adding Washer Solvent” in this chapter for further information. Then check that the nozzle holes are not clogged; use a suitable tool such as a needle to unblock them if necessary.

Exhaust System
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust system.
If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system; if the exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle; or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged; have an authorized technician inspect the complete exhaust system and adjacent body areas for broken, damaged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger compartment. In addition, have the exhaust system inspected each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace as required.
WARNING

• Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you unconscious and can eventually poison you. To avoid breathing CO, refer to “Safety Tips” in “Safety” for further information.
• A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over materials that can burn. Such materials might be grass or leaves coming into contact with your exhaust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust system can contact anything that can burn.

CAUTION

• The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as an emissions control device and may seriously reduce engine performance and cause serious damage to the engine.
• Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In the event of engine malfunction, particularly involving engine misfire or other apparent loss of performance, have your vehicle serviced promptly.
• Continued operation of your vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause the converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to the converter and vehicle.

Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic converter will not require maintenance. However, it is important to keep the engine properly tuned to ensure proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst damage.
NOTE: Intentional tampering with emissions control systems can result in civil penalties being assessed against you.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine, and allow it to cool. Service, including a tune-up to the manufacturer’s specifications, should be obtained immediately.

To minimize the possibility of catalytic converter damage:

• Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition, when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in motion.
• Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the vehicle.
• Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires disconnected or removed, such as when diagnostic testing, or for prolonged periods during very rough idle or malfunctioning operating conditions.

Cooling System
WARNING

• Turn the vehicle off and disconnect the fan motor lead before working near the radiator cooling fan.
• You or others can be badly burned by hot engine coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming from under the hood, do not open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never open a cooling system pressure cap when the radiator or coolant bottle is hot.
• Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry away from the radiator cooling fan when the hood is raised. The fan starts automatically and may start at any time, whether the engine is running or not.
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, disconnect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. The fan is temperature-controlled and can start at any time the ignition switch is in the ON position.

Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in appearance, the system should be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh engine coolant (anti-freeze). Check the front of the A/C condenser for any accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying water from a garden hose vertically down the face of the condenser.

Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE: Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to the system please contact an authorized dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or contains visible sediment, have an authorized dealer clean and flush with OAT coolant (antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032). Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.

Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for further information.
NOTE

• Mixing of engine coolant (antifreeze) other than specific Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (antifreeze), may result in engine damage and may decrease corrosion protection. Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant is different and should not be mixed with Hybrid Organic Additive Technology (HOAT) engine coolant (antifreeze) or any “globally compatible” coolant (antifreeze). If a non-OAT engine coolant (antifreeze) is introduced into the cooling system in an emergency, the cooling system will need to be drained, flushed, and refilled with fresh OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032), by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
• Do not use water alone or alcohol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) products. Do not use additional rust inhibitors or antirust products, as they may not be compatible with the radiator engine coolant and may plug the radiator.
• This vehicle has not been designed for use with propylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze). Use of propylene glycol-based engine coolant (anti-freeze) is not recommended.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to the system please contact an authorized dealer.

Adding Coolant
Your vehicle has been built with an improved engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) that allows extended maintenance intervals. This engine coolant (antifreeze) can be used for up to ten years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km) before replacement. To prevent reducing this extended maintenance period, it is important that you use the same engine coolant (OAT coolant conforming to MS.90032) throughout the life of your vehicle. Please review these recommendations for using an Organic Additive Technology (OAT) engine coolant (anti-freeze) that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032. When adding engine coolant (anti-freeze):

We recommend using Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile (240,000 km) Formula OAT (Organic Additive Technology) that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032.
Mix a minimum solution of 50% OAT engine coolant that meets the requirements of FCA Material Standard MS.90032 and distilled water. Use higher concentrations (not to exceed 70%) if temperatures below −34°F (−37°C) are anticipated. Please contact an authorized dealer for assistance.
Use only high-purity water such as distilled or deionized water when mixing the water/engine coolant (antifreeze) solution. The use of lower-quality water will reduce the amount of corrosion protection in the engine cooling system.

NOTE

• It is the owner’s responsibility to maintain the proper level of protection against freezing according to the temperatures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
• Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant properly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to be added to the system, please contact a local authorized dealer.
• Mixing engine coolant (antifreeze) types is not recommended and can result in cooling system damage. If HOAT and OAT coolant are mixed in an emergency, have an authorized dealer drain, flush, and refill with OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) as soon as possible.

Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of engine coolant (antifreeze), and to ensure that engine coolant (antifreeze) will return to the radiator from the coolant expansion bottle/recovery tank if so equipped.
The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.

WARNING

• Do not open the hot engine cooling system. Never add engine coolant (antifreeze) when the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an overheated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in the cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not remove the pressure cap while the system is hot or under pressure.
• Do not use a pressure cap other than the one specified for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine damage may result.

Disposal Of Used Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based coolant (antifreeze) is a regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your community. To prevent ingestion by animals or children, do not store ethylene glycol-based coolant in open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the ground. If ingested by a child or pet, seek emergency assistance immediately. Clean up any ground spills immediately.

Coolant Level
The coolant expansion bottle provides a quick visual method for determining that the coolant level is adequate. With the engine off and cold, the level of the engine coolant (antifreeze) in the bottle should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. As long as the engine operating temperature is satisfactory, the coolant bottle needs only be checked once a month. When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant bottle. Do not overfill.

Points To Remember
NOTE: When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front of the engine compartment. This is normally a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulating on the radiator and being vaporized when the thermostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (antifreeze) to enter the radiator. If an examination of your engine compartment shows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.

• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (anti-freeze) needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion bottle must also be protected against freezing.
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are required, the cooling system should be pressure tested for leaks.
• Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032) and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your engine which contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the coolant expansion bottle overflow hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the correct type of thermostat. Other designs may result in unsatisfactory engine coolant (anti-freeze) performance, poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.

Brake System
In order to ensure brake system performance, all brake system components should be inspected periodically. Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the proper maintenance intervals.
WARNING: Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake damage. You would not have your full braking capacity in an emergency.

Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked when performing under hood services, or immediately if the “Brake Warning Light” is on. Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the fluid level up to the requirements described on the brake fluid reservoir. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads wear. The brake fluid level should be checked when the pads are replaced. However, low fluid levels may be caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed. Use only the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants ” in “Technical Specifications” for further information.

WARNING

• Use only the manufacturer’s recommended brake fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for further information. Using the wrong type of brake fluid can severely damage your brake system and/or impair its performance. The proper type of brake fluid for your vehicle is also identified on the original factory-installed hydraulic master cylinder reservoir.
• To avoid contamination from foreign matter or moisture, use only new brake fluid or fluid that has been in a tightly closed container.
• Keep the master cylinder reservoir cap secured at all times. Brake fluid in an open container absorbs moisture from the air resulting in a lower boiling point. This may cause it to boil unexpectedly during hard or prolonged braking, resulting in sudden brake failure. This could result in a collision.
• Overfilling the brake fluid reservoir can result in spilling brake fluid on hot engine parts, causing the brake fluid to catch fire. Brake fluid can also damage painted and vinyl surfaces, care should be taken to avoid its contact with these surfaces.
• Do not allow petroleum-based fluid to contaminate the brake fluid. Brake seal components could be damaged, causing partial or complete brake failure. This could result in a collision.

CAUTION: Use of improper brake fluids will affect overall clutch system performance. Improper brake fluids may damage the clutch system resulting in loss of clutch function and the ability to shift the transmission.

Checking Brake Fluid

1. Brake Fluid Protection Panel
2. Washer Solvent Protection Panel

To check the brake fluid level, proceed as follows:

1. Loosen the two screws and remove the brake fluid protection panel.
   1. Screw Locations
2. Check that the fluid is at the max. level.
3. After checking, reposition the brake fluid protection panel and tighten the two screws.

Adding Brake Fluid
If the fluid level in the reservoir is not sufficient, proceed as follows:

1. Take the black funnel for topping up the brake fluid and its extension pipe from the service kit in the luggage compartment.
2. Loosen the reservoir plug and introduce the funnel with the extension pipe in the reservoir inlet.
3. After topping up, remove the funnel with the extension pipe.
4. Tighten the reservoir plug.
5. Reposition the brake fluid protection panel and tighten the two screws.
   NOTE: Be very careful while removing the plug from the opening to prevent the plug from falling inside the vehicle body.

Alfa Twin Clutch Transmission
Selection Of Lubricant
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use only the manufacturer’s specified transmission fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain the transmission fluid at the correct level using the recommended fluid. No chemical flushes should be used in any transmission; only the approved lubricant should be used.
CAUTION: Using a transmission fluid other than the manufacturer’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in transmission shift quality. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for fluid specifications.

Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any special additives in the transmission. Transmission fluid is an engineered product and its performance may be impaired by supplemental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks.
CAUTION: Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as the chemicals can damage your transmission components. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require adjustment under normal operating conditions. Frequent fluid level checks are not required, but have your authorized dealer check the fluid level as specified in the Maintenance Schedule to ensure proper transmission function and longevity. The transmission has no dipstick, but your authorized dealer can check your transmission fluid level using special service tools. If you notice fluid leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your authorized dealer immediately to have the transmission fluid level checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
Fluid Changes
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at the factory will provide satisfactory lubrication for the life of the vehicle. However, change the fluid if it becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmission is disassembled for any reason.

FAQ’s