2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Engine Oil and Fluids
The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a standout when it comes to luxury SUVs. It is known for its beautiful Italian design and thrilling performance. At the heart of this automobile masterpiece is a powertrain that was carefully designed and run by a complicated system of engine oil and fluids. Properly managing the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and other important fluids is the most important thing you can do to keep the Stelvio’s great handling and long life. In this complete guide, we go into detail about each of these important fluids, how often they need to be serviced, and how important each is to keep the 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio running at its best.
ENGINE OIL
The engine oil level can be seen on the instrument cluster display every time the engine is started, or on the Information and Entertainment system display by activating on the main menu (MENU button) the following functions in sequence:
- “Apps”
- “My Car”
- “Oil Level”
Check on the display using the 6 notches that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX levels:
1 notch MIN level, 6 notches MAX level.
If the oil level is close to or below the MIN mark, add oil gradually through the filler, (refer to “Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On Display” in this section) considering that each notch shown on the display corresponds to approximately 8.8 fl oz (250 ml).
The oil level can also be checked manually on 2.9L Quadrifoglio models.
CAUTION: Make sure not to add too much oil when topping off the engine. Engine oil in excess may damage the engine. Have the vehicle checked. Never exceed the MAX level when topping off engine oil. It is advisable to check the oil level in intermediate steps using the oil dipstick (2.9L Quadrifoglio Only). The oil level is not refreshed immediately on the display after topping off. Consequently, wait for the oil level to be refreshed on the display and follow the procedure below.
NOTE: Always reinstall the oil cap and tighten it to proper torque whenever it is removed to add oil to the engine. Never run the engine with the cap removed as this could cause oil to leak from the engine.
Manual Oil Level Checking Procedure — 2.9L Quadrifoglio
Check that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick, clean it with a lint-free cloth, and reinsert it. Extract the dipstick again and check that the level is between the MIN and MAX marks.
Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On Display — 2.9L Quadrifoglio
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to ensure the correct indication of the oil level on the display, proceed with the process below:
- Leave the car on flat ground with the engine running for approximately five minutes (temperature higher than 198°F (90°C) and shut the engine off
- Wait for five minutes, turn the ignition to the ACC mode without starting the engine, and wait for a few seconds.
NOTE: If the level indication is not updated after the previously described procedure, repeat the engine adjustment, shut the engine off, and wait another five minutes before starting it again. If the indication is not updated after the second start, contact an authorized dealer.
Top-Up And Oil Level Indication Update On Display — 2.0L T4 MAir
If an engine oil top-off is needed, in order to ensure the correct indication of the oil level on the display, proceed with the process below:
- Leave the car on flat ground with the engine running for approximately five minutes (temperature higher than 176°F (80°C) and shut the engine off.
- Start the engine again and idle it for about two minutes.
NOTE: If you have added the specified amount of oil and the indicator is not reading “Full”, please contact an authorized dealer.
WARNING: If the engine oil is being topped up, wait for the engine to cool down before loosening the filler cap, particularly for vehicles with aluminum caps (if equipped). WARNING: risk of burns!
CAUTION
- The oil level must never exceed the MAX mark.
- If the MAX mark is exceeded (the last notch on the right turns red) after the fill-up, go to an authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the oil in excess removed.
- Do not add oil with specifications different from those of the oil already in the engine.
- Used engine oil and oil filters contain substances that are harmful to the environment. To change the oil and filters, we advise you to contact an authorized dealer.
ENGINE COOLANT FLUID
If the level is too low, unscrew the cap of the reservoir and add the fluid described in the “Fluids and Lubricants” in the “Technical Specifications” chapter.
WASHER FLUID FOR WINDSHIELD/ HEADLIGHTS
The windshield and headlight (if equipped) wereher fluid reservoir is equipped with a telescopic filler neck.
If the level is too low, remove the reservoir cap and lift the filler neck. Then, add the fluid described in “Technical Specifications”. After filling the reservoir, lower the filler neck and install the reservoir cap until you hear it click.
NOTE: The headlight washers are activated every 10 activations of the windshield washer. The headlight washing system will not work if the liquid level is low (a situation indicated by the symbol on the instrument cluster display). The windshield washer will keep working.
On vehicles equipped with headlight washers, there is a reference notch on the dipstick: ONLY the windshield/rear window washer operates with the level below this reference.
BRAKE FLUID
Check that the fluid is at the maximum level. If the fluid level in the tank is low, contact an authorized dealer to have the system checked.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION ACTIVATION SYSTEM OIL
The transmission control oil level should only be checked at an authorized dealer.
USEFUL ADVICE FOR EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERY
To avoid draining your battery and make it last longer, observe the following instructions:
- When you park the vehicle, ensure that the doors and liftgate are closed properly to prevent any lights from remaining inside the passenger’s compartment.
- Do not keep accessories (e.g. radio, hazard warning lights, etc.) switched on for a long time when the engine is not running.
- Before performing any operation on the electrical system, disconnect the negative battery cable.
If you wish to install electrical accessories after purchasing the vehicle that requires a permanent electrical supply (e.g. alarm, etc.), or accessories which influence the electrical supply requirements, contact an authorized dealer, whose qualified staff will evaluate the overall electrical consumption.
CAUTION: If the charge level remains under 50% for a long time, the battery may be damaged by sulphation, reducing its capacity and efficiency at the start of the vehicle. The battery is also more prone to the risk of freezing (at temperatures as high as 14°F (-10°C).
NOTE: After the battery is disconnected, the steering must be initialized. The 
warning light on the instrument panel switches on to indicate this. To carry out this procedure, simply turn the steering wheel all the way from one end to the other, and then turn it back to the central position.
A1: The 2020 Alfa Romeo Stelvio typically requires a full-synthetic engine oil with the recommended viscosity grade, which can be found in the owner’s manual.
A2: Alfa Romeo suggests changing the engine oil and oil filter every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.
A3: To check the engine oil level, park on level ground, wait a few minutes after turning off the engine, and use the dipstick provided, following the instructions in the owner’s manual.
A4: The type of transmission fluid required for the Stelvio can vary based on the specific transmission; consult the owner’s manual for the correct specification.
A5: Transmission fluid inspections and replacement intervals can vary based on the transmission type; refer to the owner’s manual for guidance on the appropriate schedule.
A6: The power steering fluid level should be checked regularly and topped up as needed, following the guidelines in the owner’s manual.
A7: Alfa Romeo typically recommends a coolant replacement every 50,000 miles or as indicated by the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
A8: It’s advisable to use the specific coolant type recommended in the owner’s manual to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
A9: Brake fluid should be checked at every 20,000-mile service interval, and replacement intervals may vary based on the fluid’s condition and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A10: Maintaining the correct engine coolant level is crucial for preventing engine overheating and ensuring efficient heat dissipation.
A11: Regular engine oil changes are vital to lubricate engine components, reduce friction, and protect against wear, ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity.
A12: Transmission fluid serves to lubricate, cool, and facilitate smooth gear shifting within the transmission, essential for its proper operation.
A13: Power steering fluid assists in hydraulic power steering systems, providing ease of steering and responsive handling.
A14: Neglecting brake fluid maintenance can lead to reduced braking performance, decreased safety, and potential damage to the brake system.
A15: If you suspect a fluid leak, it’s crucial to have it inspected and repaired promptly by a qualified technician to prevent potential damage and ensure safety.