2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia Lights and Wipers Instruction
The 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia was a shining example of Italian design and engineering in the way it looked and worked. It was a perfect mix of high-end style and cutting-edge technology. The lighting and washer systems in the Giulia were good examples of how form and function can work together. These systems weren’t just parts; they were in charge of sight, safety, and the way things looked. They made sure that roads were well-lit and that people could see clearly in rain and other bad weather. This guide goes into detail about how to use the lights and wipers on the 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia. It explains the key principles behind how they work and gives tips on how to use and customize these important parts so that drivers can drive with precision and style in any weather.
EXTERIOR LIGHTS
HEADLIGHT SWITCH
The headlight switch is located to the left of the steering wheel on the instrument panel. This switch controls the operation of the headlights, parking lights, instrument panel lights, instrument panel light dimming, interior lights and rear fog lights.
In addition, there are buttons for parking sensors deactivation and Engine Stop/Start. Refer to “Starting And Operating” for further information.
- Parking Sensors Deactivation Button
- Parking Light, Daylight Running Lights, Headlight Switch
- Instrument Panel Dimmer
- Rear Fog Light Button
- Engine Stop/Start Button
The instrument panel and the various controls on the dashboard will be illuminated when the exterior lights are turned on.
AUTOMATIC HEADLIGHTS
This system automatically turns the headlights on or off according to ambient light levels.
Function Activation
Rotate the light switch to the 
(AUTO) position.
NOTE: The function can only operate with the ignition position cycled to ON/RUN.
Function Deactivation
To deactivate the function, turn the light switch to a position other than the (AUTO) position.
DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS (DRL)
With the ignition placed in the ON/RUN position, and the light switch turned to the position, if the dusk sensor detects sufficient external light, the Daytime Running Lights will turn on automatically while the other lights remain off. If the turn signals are operated, the brightness of the corresponding Daytime Running Lights will be decreased as long as the turn signals are on. The DRL can be activated/deactivated from the radio system, by selecting the following functions in sequence on the main menu:
- “Settings”
- “Lights”
- “Daytime Running Lights”
NOTE: The Daytime Running Lights cannot be deactivated in Canadian markets.
REAR FOG LIGHT
The rear fog light switch is integrated with the headlight switch. Push the 
button to turn the rear fog lights on/off. The rear fog lights turn on only when the headlights or parking lights are turned on. The lights can be turned off by pushing the button again or by turning the headlight switch to the O (off) position and holding it there for a few seconds. When the engine is stopped with the rear fog lights on, they will remain off the next time the engine is started.
PARKING LIGHTS
With the ignition in the OFF position, turn the headlight switch to the 
position to turn the parking lights on. All of the parking lights will turn on for eight minutes, and opening the door activates an audible warning. To leave only the lights on one side (right/left) illuminated, you must move the multifunction lever (located on the left side of the steering wheel) to the side that you want to remain on. With the parking lights on, the warning light on the instrument panel will illuminate.
HEADLIGHT OFF DELAY
The “Headlight Off Delay” function delays the turning off of the headlights for a set time when the ignition is placed in the OFF position. The function can be activated from the radio system by selecting the following functions in sequence on the main menu:
- “Settings”
- “Lights”
- “Headlight Off Delay”
The side lights and the headlights stay on for a time that can be set between 30, 60, and 90 seconds.
Function Activation
With the headlights on, place the ignition in the OFF position, the timer will then start.
NOTE: To activate this function, the headlights must be deactivated within two minutes after the ignition has been placed in the OFF position.
Function Deactivation
This function is deactivated by turning on the headlights, and the side lights, or by placing the ignition in the ON/RUN position.
ADAPTIVE FRONTLIGHT SYSTEM (AFS FUNCTION) — IF EQUIPPED
This is a system combined with Xenon headlights (Bi-Xenon 35 W headlamp if equipped) which directs the headlights horizontally and continuously and automatically adapts them to the driving conditions around bends or when cornering. The system directs the headlights to light up the road in the best way, taking into account the speed of the vehicle and the bend or corner angle, as well as the speed at which the steering wheel is turned. The adaptive lights are automatically activated when the vehicle is started.
HIGH BEAM HEADLIGHTS
To activate the fixed high beam headlights, push the multifunction lever, located on the left side of the steering wheel, towards the instrument panel. The headlight switch must be turned to the (auto) or
(on) position. With high-beam headlights on, the High Beam Indicator on the instrument panel will illuminate.
The high beam headlights are turned off by pulling the lever to its original position. The warning light/icon will turn off in the instrument panel when the headlights are turned off.
Flashing The Headlights
Pulling the multifunction lever toward the steering wheel will activate the high-beam headlights manually. The lights will remain on as long as the lever is held. Once the lever is released, the lights will resume the previous position.
Automatic High Beam Headlights — If Equipped
The Automatic High Beam Headlights system provides increased forward lighting at night by automating high beam control through the use of a digital camera mounted on the windshield. This camera detects vehicle-specific light and automatically switches from high beams to low beams until the approaching vehicle is out of view. This function is enabled with the radio system, and can only be activated with the light switch turned to (auto). If the high-beam headlights are on, the blue icon/warning light will illuminate the instrument panel. When the speed is higher than 25 mph (40 km/h) and the function is active, the lights will turn off if the multifunction lever is pushed again. When the speed is lower than 15 mph (25 km/h) and the function is active, the function switches the high-beam headlights off.
If the high beam headlights are operated quickly again (pushing the multifunction lever towards the instrument panel), the warning light/icon will illuminate the instrument panel, and the high beam headlights will turn on constantly until the speed exceeds 25 mph (40 km/h).
When the speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) is exceeded again, the automatic functioning is reactivated. If the multifunction lever is pushed again with the Automatic High Beam Headlights activated, the Automatic High Beam Headlights function deactivates. To deactivate the automatic headlight function, rotate the headlight switch to the position.
NOTE
- If the system recognizes heavy traffic areas, the automatic functions remain disabled independently of the vehicle’s speed.
- The Automatic High Beam functionality may also be influenced by:
- Reflections on road signs
- Dim headlights from oncoming traffic
- Poor weather conditions
- The presence of dirt or other obstructions on the sensor
- Damage to the windshield
TURN SIGNALS
To activate the turn signals function, move the multifunction lever, located on the left side of the steering wheel, up or down until it reaches the detent. Moving the lever upward flashes the right turn signal and moving the lever downward will flash the left turn signal.
The → or ← turn signal will blink on the instrument panel. The turn signals turn off automatically when the vehicle is brought back onto a straight course.
Lane Change Function
Tap the lever up or down once, without moving beyond the detent, and the turn signal (right or left) will flash five times. Then, the turn signal (right or left) will automatically turn off. To turn off the flashing before the end of the cycle, move the lever in the opposite direction until the first click (about halfway).
STATIC BENDING LIGHT FUNCTION (SBL)
The SBL function utilizes Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) in order to better illuminate the street and increase the light angle while turning. This function is enabled by rotating the light switch to position on or auto. The SBL LEDs activate when the speed is below 25 mph (40 km/h) and the steering radius is below 0.3 miles (500 m).
This function can be activated/deactivated on the radio system by selecting the following functions in sequence on the main menu:
- “Settings.”
- “Lights.”
- “Cornering Lights.”
INTERIOR LIGHTS
FRONT MAP READING LIGHTS
The front map/reading and overhead lights are mounted in the overhead console. Each light can be turned on by pushing the corresponding switch on the console. These switches are backlit for nighttime visibility. To turn the lights off, push the switch a second time.
Overhead Console
- Driver’s Reading/Map Light Switch
- Rear Overhead Lights Switch
- Overhead Lights Switch
- Front Map Reading Lights Switch
- Passenger’s Reading/Map Light Switch
- Passenger’s Reading/Map Light
- Center Reading/Map Light
- Driver’s Reading/Map Light
NOTE: Before getting out of the vehicle, ensure that the overhead lights are off. This will prevent the battery level from being drained once the doors are closed. If a light is left on accidentally, the overhead lights turn off automatically approximately 15 minutes after the engine has been turned off.
Overhead Light Timing
To assist in getting in and out of the vehicle at night or in poorly lit areas, two timed modes are available to keep the interior lighting on after the engine is turned off.
Timing While Getting Into The Vehicle
The overhead lights will illuminate as follows:
- For a few seconds when the doors are unlocked.
- For approximately three minutes one of the doors is opened.
- For a few seconds, the doors are locked. Timing is interrupted when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.
Exiting Overhead Light Timing
The overhead lights will turn off as follows:
- After all, doors are closed upon entering the vehicle, the three-minute timer will stop and a second timer will start for the overhead lights. This timing will end when the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.
- When the doors are locked (either with the key fob or with the key inserted on the driver’s side door).
- After 15 minutes preserve the battery.
Timing While Getting Out Of The Vehicle
After placing the ignition in the OFF position, the overhead lights will turn on as follows:
- For a few seconds after the engine stops.
- For approximately three minutes one of the doors is opened.
- For a few seconds, the last door is closed. The timing ends automatically when the doors are locked.
Vanity Mirror Lights
On the driver and passenger sun visor, there is a light that illuminates the sun visor mirror when folded down.
The courtesy light turns on automatically by lifting the cover.
GLOVE COMPARTMENT LIGHT
This light turns on automatically when the glove compartment is opened and turns off when it is closed. The light turns on and off regardless of the ignition status.
INTERIOR AMBIENT LIGHTING
The brightness of the interior lighting can be adjusted via the radio system. To access the adjustment function, on the main menu select the following items in sequence:
- “Settings.”
- “Lights.”
- “Interior Ambient Lighting.”
The lights can be adjusted to seven different levels of brightness.
DOOR LIGHT
This vehicle is equipped with door courtesy lamps that illuminate the entryway for the driver or passenger when the door is opened and turn off when it is closed. The light turns on and off regardless of the ignition status.
As part of the “Passive Entry” system, another light can be found under each exterior door handle.
REAR OVERHEAD LIGHT
The rear overhead lights are activated or deactivated by two on/off switches located within the lights on the ceiling above the rear seats.
- Passenger Rear Overhead Light
- Driver Rear Overhead Light
- Driver Rear Overhead Light Switch
- Passenger Rear Overhead Light Switch
The light turns on when a door is opened.
NOTE: The light will turn off automatically after a few minutes if a door is left open. To turn it on again, open another door or close and reopen the same door.
COURTESY TRUNK LIGHTS
The trunk features two courtesy lights. These courtesy lights turn on automatically when the trunk is opened and turn off when it is closed.
The courtesy lights will turn on and off regardless of the ignition status.
NOTE: If the trunk is left open, the lights will automatically turn off after 15 minutes to preserve battery life.
INSTRUMENT PANEL DIMMER CONTROL
With the daytime running lights or headlights on, rotate the dimmer control upward to increase the instrument panel brightness and the control button icons. Rotate the dimmer control downward to decrease brightness.
WINDSHIELD WIPERS
WINDSHIELD WIPER STALK
The windshield wiper stalk is located on the right side of the steering wheel. The windshield wipers will only operate with the ignition in the ACC or ON/RUN position.
CAUTION
- Turn the windshield wipers off when driving through an automatic car wash. Damage to the windshield wipers may result if the wiper control is left in any position other than off.
- In cold weather, always turn off the wiper switch and allow the wipers to return to the “park” position before turning off the engine. If the wiper switch is left on and the wipers freeze to the windshield, damage to the wiper motor may occur when the vehicle is restarted.
- Always remove any buildup of snow that prevents the windshield wiper blades from returning to the off position. If the windshield wiper control is turned off and the blades cannot return to the off position, damage to the wiper motor may occur.
WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHERS
Windshield Wiper Switch
- High Continuous Wiper Speed
- Low Continuous Wiper Speed
- High Sensitivity Rain Sensing
- Low Sensitivity Rain Sensing
- Windshield Wiper Off
Windshield Wiper Operation
Rotating the switch to the Low Continuous Wiper Speed position (2) activates the first (low) level continuous speed of the windshield wipers in manual mode. Rotating the switch to the High Continuous Wiper Speed position (1) activates the second (high) level continuous speed of the windshield wipers in manual mode.
Rain Sensors
Rotating the switch to the Low Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (4), activates the first, less sensitive level of the Rain Sensing function. Rotating the switch to the High Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (3), activates the second, more sensitive level of the Rain Sensing function. Refer to “Rain Sensor” in this section for more information on how this system functions.
Windshield Washer Operation
Pull the stalk toward the steering wheel to operate the windshield washer. Keep the stalk pulled to activate both the windshield washer jet and the windshield wiper with a single movement. The wipers and washers will continue to operate until you let go of the stalk. The windshield wiper stops working three strokes after the stalk is released, followed by a final stroke six seconds later to complete the cycle.
Mist
Use this feature when weather conditions make occasional usage of the wipers necessary. Push the stalk upward to the MIST position and release for a single wiping cycle. This function is useful to remove small deposits of dust from the windshield or morning dew.
NOTE: This function does not activate the windshield washer. To spray windshield washer fluid onto the windshield, the washing function must be used.
WARNING: Sudden loss of visibility through the windshield could lead to a collision. You might not see other vehicles or other obstacles. To avoid sudden icing of the windshield during freezing weather, warm the windshield with the defroster before and during windshield washer use.
RAIN SENSOR
The Rain Sensor is located behind the interior rear-view mirror. This feature senses moisture on the windshield and automatically activates the wipers for the driver.
The feature is especially useful for road splash or overspray from the windshield washers of the vehicle ahead. Rotate the end of the multifunction lever to one of four settings to activate this feature. The sensor has an adjustment range that varies progressively from wiper still (no stroke) when the windshield is dry, to wiper at continuous speed (fast operation) with intense rain.
Activation
Rotating the wiper switch to the Low Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (4) or High Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (3) activates the rain sensor. The activation of the rain sensor system is done by tapping the wiper stalk upwards while the switch is in the Low Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (4) or High Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (3). The variation in sensitivity during rain sensor operation is also signaled by a stroke of the wiper (command acquired and implemented). This stroke is also executed with the windshield dry. If the windshield washer is used with the rain sensor activated, the normal washing cycle is performed, after which the rain sensor resumes its normal automatic operation.
NOTE
- Keep the glass in the sensor area clean.
- With the windshield wiper lever in the Low Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (4) or High Sensitivity Rain Sensing position (3), wiping operates automatically and is disabled when the outside temperature is below 32°F (0°C).
Deactivation
Use the wiper switch or place the ignition in the OFF position. In the event of malfunction of the rain sensor, while it is active, the windshield wiper operates intermittently at a speed consistent with the sensitivity setting of the rain sensor, whether or not there is rain on the glass for as long as the sensor failure is indicated on the display. The sensor continues to operate and it is possible to set the windshield wiper to continuous mode (1 or 2). The failure indication remains on for as long as the sensor is active. The rain sensor is able to recognize and automatically adjust itself in the presence of the following conditions:
- Presence of dirt on the controlled surface (salt, dirt, etc.).
- The presence of streaks of water is caused by the worn window wiper blades.
- Difference between day and night.
FAQ’s
A: To turn on the headlights, rotate the headlight switch on the control stalk located behind the steering wheel to the appropriate setting.
A: Yes, most Giulia models come with automatic headlights. Set the headlight switch to “Auto,” and the system will activate the headlights as needed based on ambient light conditions.
A: To use high beams, push the turn signal lever away from you (forward) when the headlights are on. Pull it toward you to return to low beams.
A: Fog lights are designed to improve visibility in adverse weather conditions. Activate them by turning the fog light switch, typically located near the headlight switch.
A: Yes, you can typically adjust the interior lighting brightness using the vehicle’s settings menu. Consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
A: To activate the hazard lights, locate the hazard light button on the center console or dashboard and press it.
A: The Giulia typically offers various wiper modes such as intermittent, low, high, and auto. Use the wiper control stalk on the steering column to select the desired mode.
A: Some Giulia models may offer rain-sensing wipers with adjustable sensitivity settings. Refer to the owner’s manual for details on adjusting sensitivity.
A: Activate the rear windshield wiper by turning the rear wiper control on the wiper control stalk. In some models, this may be automatic when the front wipers are on and you engage reverse gear.
A: It’s advisable to clear ice and snow from the windshield and wiper blades before using them in icy conditions. Use an appropriate ice scraper to prevent damage.
A: Yes, you can use the windshield washer spray while driving to clean the windshield. Pull the wiper control stalk toward you momentarily to activate it.
A: Typically, you can activate the rear windshield washer by pulling the wiper control stalk toward you and holding it briefly when the rear wiper is not in use.
A: Yes, you can typically disable the automatic wiper feature by adjusting the wiper control stalk to a non-automatic setting.
A: Regularly inspect and clean the wiper blades. If they show signs of wear or streaking, replace them with high-quality wiper blades.
A: The Giulia may come equipped with features like automatic headlight leveling or adaptive lighting systems for improved safety. Familiarize yourself with these features in the owner’s manual.