2015 Alfa Romeo MiTo Engine Oil and Fluids Instructions
The 2015 Alfa Romeo MiTo is a small and sporty car that needs certain engine oil and fluids to keep running well and last a long time. Fully synthetic oil, usually in the viscosity range of 5W-40 or 5W-30, is suggested for the engine. This is in line with the most recent European standards. The MiTo also needs other fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, and each has its own requirements. The coolant should be a long-lasting antifreeze that meets the manufacturer’s standards. The brake fluid should ideally meet DOT 4 standards, and the transmission fluid should work with the MiTo’s manual or automatic drive. For the car to be reliable and run at its best, these fluids must be checked regularly and with proper care.
ENGINE OIL
Check that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX references on the dipstick A. If the oil level is near or under the MIN reference, add oil through the filler B until it reaches the MAX reference.
Caution: The oil level must never exceed the MAX reference.
1.4 Petrol, 1.4 Turbo MultiAir, 1.3 JTDM-2 , 1.6 JTDM versions
Take out the engine oil dipstick A, clean it with a lint-free cloth, and reinsert it. Extract it again and check that the level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick.
Turbo TwinAir versions
The engine oil dipstick A is integral with plug B. Undo the plug, clean the dipstick with a cloth that does not leave traces, reinsert the dipstick, and re-tighten the plug. Unscrew the plug again and check that the engine oil level is between the MIN and MAX marks on the dipstick.
Engine oil consumption
The maximum engine oil consumption is usually 400 grams every 1,000 km. When the car is new, the engine needs to be run; therefore the engine oil consumption can only be considered stabilized after the first 5,000 – 6,000 km.
Caution
- Do not add oil with specifications other than those of the oil already in the engine.
- Used engine oil and oil filters contain substances that are harmful to the environment. We recommend having the oil and filters replaced by Alfa Romeo Authorised Services.
ENGINE COOLANT
If the level is too low, unscrew reservoir cap C and add the fluid described in the “Technical Specifications” section.
Caution
- PARAFLU UP anti-freeze is used in the engine cooling system. Use the same fluid as in the cooling system when topping up.
- PARAFLUUP cannot be mixed with any other type of fluid. If this accidentally occurs, do not start the engine under any circumstances. Contact Alfa Romeo Authorised Services.
- The cooling system is pressurized. If necessary, only replace the cap with another genuine one or the operation of the system may be adversely affected. Do not remove the reservoir cap when the engine is hot: you risk scalding yourself.
WINDSCREEN/REAR WINDOW WASHER FLUID
If the level is too low, lift reservoir cap D and add the fluid described in the chapter “Technical Specifications”.
Caution: Do not travel if the windscreen washer reservoir is empty: using the windscreen washer is essential for improving visibility. Some commercial windscreen washer additives are flammable. The engine compartment contains hot components which may set it on fire.
BRAKE FLUID
Check that the fluid is at the max. level.
If the fluid level in the reservoir is too low, undo reservoir cap E and add the fluid described in the chapter “Technical Specifications”.
Caution:
- Prevent brake fluid, which is highly corrosive, from coming into contact with painted parts. Should it happen, wash immediately with water.
- Brake fluid is poisonous and highly corrosive. In the event of accidental contact, immediately wash the affected parts with water and mild soap. Then rinse thoroughly. Call a doctor immediately if swallowed.
- The symbol on the container identifies synthetic brake fluids, distinguishing them from the mineral type. Using a mineral-type fluid will damage the special rubber seals of the braking system beyond repair.
AIR CLEANER/POLLEN FILTER/DIESEL FILTER
Contact Alfa Romeo Authorized Services to replace the filters.
BATTERY
Battery F (see previous pages) does not require the electrolyte to be topped up with distilled water. A periodic check carried out at Alfa Romeo Authorized Services is, however, necessary to check efficiency.
REPLACING THE BATTERY
If necessary, replace the battery with another genuine battery with the same specifications. Follow the battery manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance.
USEFUL ADVICE FOR EXTENDING THE LIFE OF YOUR BATTERY
To avoid draining your battery rapidly and maintain its efficiency over time, carefully observe the following instructions:
- when you park the car, ensure that the doors, bonnet, and flaps are closed correctly, to prevent any roof lights from remaining on inside the passenger compartment;
- switch off all roof lights inside the car: the car is however equipped with a system that switches all internal lights off automatically;
- do not keep accessories (e.g. sound system, hazard 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 pole;
IMPORTANT: If the charge level remains under 50% for a long time, the battery is damaged by sulphation, reducing its capacity and efficiency at start-up.
The battery will also be more at risk of freezing (this can happen as early as –10°C). Refer to “Storing the car” in “Starting and driving” if the car is left parked for a long time. If after having purchased your car you decide to add accessories requiring permanent electrical power (alarm etc.) or accessories that require large amounts of power, contact Alfa Romeo Authorized Services. They can calculate the overall electrical requirement.
FAQ’s
A: It’s a good practice to check the engine oil level every time you fill up your gas tank or at least once a month.
A: The recommended engine oil type and grade can vary depending on your specific engine. Refer to your owner’s manual for the correct specifications.
A: Typically, engine oil should be changed every 6,000 to 7,500 miles or as recommended in your owner’s manual.
A: Yes, you can use synthetic engine oil in your MiTo if it meets the specifications outlined in your owner’s manual.
A: Park your vehicle on level ground, wait a few minutes after turning off the engine, and then use the dipstick to check the oil level. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for accurate guidance.
A: Add engine oil slowly and in small increments, rechecking the oil level on the dipstick after each addition until it reaches the proper level.
A: Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir when the engine is cool. The coolant should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks. The quality and concentration can be verified with a coolant hydrometer.
A: The coolant should be replaced every 2 to 5 years, depending on the type of coolant used and the recommendations in your owner’s manual.
A: Check and top off the windshield washer fluid regularly, especially before long trips or in inclement weather.
A: Brake fluid should be changed as recommended in your owner’s manual, typically every 2 years, but follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
A: Some models have sealed transmissions, so it’s best to consult a professional mechanic for transmission fluid checks and changes. If it’s not sealed, consult your owner’s manual for instructions.
A: It’s important to use the type of brake fluid recommended in your owner’s manual. Typically, DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid is used.
A: Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to check the power steering fluid level, as it may vary between models.
A: The power steering fluid should be checked and changed as recommended in your owner’s manual, typically every 2 to 4 years.
A: The inspection and replacement intervals for other fluids, like differential or transfer case fluids, vary based on your vehicle’s model and usage. Consult your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
Useful Link
View Full PDF: 2015 Alfa Romeo MiTo User Manual | Auto User Guide
