2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia Engine Oil and Fluids
The 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia stood out among high-performance sedans not only because of its Italian style and precision engineering but also because of how well its engine oil and fluids were handled. This complicated system of fluids was the Giulia’s heart. It took care of its powerful engine and complicated parts, keeping them running well and reliably. This detailed guide goes into the ins and outs of the 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia’s engine oil and fluid management. It explains the different fluids needed, what they do, and the best ways to take care of them so that this Italian masterpiece keeps giving you thrilling rides and stays reliable for a long time.
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” and “Oil Level”. Check on the display using the six notches that the oil level is between the MIN and MAX level: one notch MIN level, six 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 see the following procedure.
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 ON 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 “Technical Specifications” chapter.
WASHER FLUID FOR WINDSHIELD/ HEADLIGHTS
The windshield and headlights washer fluid reservoir has a telescopic filler. If the level is too low, remove the reservoir cap and lift the filler. Then, add the fluid described in the “Technical Specifications” chapter.
NOTE: The headlight washing system will not work if the liquid level is low (as indicated by the symbol on the instrument cluster display). 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 car, ensure that the doors and trunk 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 car that requires a permanent electrical supply (e.g. alarm, etc.), or accessories that 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.
FAQ’s
A: Alfa Romeo often recommends using synthetic engine oil with the appropriate viscosity rating, which can be found in the owner’s manual.
A: The recommended oil change interval for the Giulia is typically every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, but it’s essential to check the owner’s manual for precise intervals.
A: Yes, you can check the engine oil level by using the dipstick. Park the car on level ground, wait for the engine to cool, then remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the oil level.
A: If the oil level is low, add the recommended oil type to bring it to the correct level. Consult the owner’s manual for oil specifications.
A: Use the specified coolant type outlined in the owner’s manual. Coolant checks and replacements are typically recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.
A: Check the coolant level in the transparent coolant reservoir when the engine is cool. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the reservoir.
A: If the coolant level is low, add the recommended coolant type to bring it to the appropriate level. Be sure to use a coolant mixture as specified in the owner’s manual.
A: Transmission fluid change intervals can vary, but it’s generally recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles or as specified in the owner’s manual.
A: Checking the transmission fluid level may require specialized equipment and procedures. It’s often best performed by a qualified technician during regular maintenance.
A: Regularly inspect the power steering fluid level, and if it appears low, consult the owner’s manual for the appropriate type of fluid to add.
A: Brake fluid should be checked regularly for contamination or moisture, and it may need replacement every 30,000 miles or as recommended in the owner’s manual.
A: Yes, you can check and top up the windshield washer fluid as needed. Use a suitable windshield washer fluid to ensure visibility.
A: Differential fluid inspection and replacement intervals can vary based on driving conditions. Consult the owner’s manual for guidance on when to perform these tasks.
A: It’s generally recommended to use OEM or manufacturer-approved fluids to ensure compatibility and maintain optimal performance and reliability.
A: Detailed information on fluid specifications and maintenance intervals can be found in the owner’s manual provided with the vehicle.