Lancia THESIS. Instruction - part 20

317

CHECKING
FLUID LEVELS

1) Engine oil 

2) Brake fluid 

3) Windscreen/rear window and

headlight washer fluid 

4) Engine coolant 

5) Power steering fluid

L0A0343b

L0A0344b

fig. 1 - 2.0 TB version 

fig. 2 - 2.4 - 2.4 CAE versions 

318

1) Engine oil 

2) Brake fluid 

3) Windscreen/rear window and 

headlight washer fluid 

4) Engine coolant

5) Power steering fluid

L0A0345b

L0A0341b

fig. 3 - 2.4 JTD version 

fig. 4 - 2.4 JTD 

20V

- 2.4 JTD 

20V

CAE versions 

319

1) Engine oil

2) Brake fluid 

3) Windscreen/rear window and 

headlight washer fluid 

4) Engine coolant

5) Power steering fluid

L0A0342b

L0A0358b

fig. 5 - 3.0 V6 CAE version 

fig. 6 - 3.2 V6 CAE version

320

IMPORTANT After topping up, let

the engine turn for a few seconds
and wait a few minutes after stop-
ping it before you check the level.

Engine oil consumption

Max. engine oil consumption is

usually 400 grams every 1000 km.

When the car is new, the engine

needs to run in, therefore the engine
oil consumption can only be consid-
ered stabilised after the first 5000 -
6000 km.

ENGINE OIL 
(fig. 7-8-9-10-11-12)

Check engine oil with the car on

level ground and while the engine is
still warm (approximately five min-
utes after stopping the engine).

Remove dipstick A and clean it,

than plunge it down and check
whether the oil level is included
between the MIN and MAX refer-
ence lines on the dipstick. The gap
between the MIN and MAX refer-
ence lines corresponds to approxi-
mately one litre of oil.

Do not add oil with dif-

ferent specifications (class,
viscosity, etc.) from the oil

already in the engine.

If the oil level is near or even below

the MIN line, pour in oil through the
filler hole B, until it reaches the
MAX line.

IMPORTANT If during a routine

check you will find that the oil level
is above the MAX reference line,
contact a Lancia Dealership to
have the proper level restored.

Be very careful under the

bonnet: you risk burning
yourself. Remember that

when the engine is hot, the fan
can start up and cause injuries.

fig. 7 - 2.0 TB version

L0A0323b

fig. 8 - 2.4 - 2.4 CAE versions

L0A0291b

321

IMPORTANT The oil consump-

tion depends on the driving style and
the conditions under which the car is
used.

Used engine oil and re-

placed oil filters contain
substances which can harm

the environment. We recommend
you have the car seen to at a Lan-
cia Dealership for the oil and filter
change. It is suitably equipped for
disposing of used oil and filters in
an environmentally friendly way
that complies with the law.

ENGINE COOLANT (fig. 13)

Do not remove the reser-

voir cap when the engine is
hot: you risk scalding

yourself!

Check coolant level when the engine
is cold and with the car on flat
ground. The level should be includ-
ed between MIN and MAX reference
lines on the reservoir.

If the level is low, loosen the reser-
voir cap A and top up with
PARAFLU UP until reaching the
MAX reference line.

fig. 9 - 2.4 JTD version

L0A0324b

fig. 11 - 3.0 V6 CAE version

L0A0155b

fig. 13

L0A0292b

fig. 10 - 2.4 JTD 

20V

-

2.4 JTD 

20V

CAE versions

fig. 12 - 3.2 V6 CAE version 

L0A0346b

L0A0359b

322

fig. 14

L0A0293b

fig. 15

L0A0158b

The engine cooling sys-

tem works with PARAFLU
UP. Top up only with the

same fluid contained in the cool-
ing circuit. PARAFLU UP cannot
be mixed up with PARAFLU 11 or
other fluids. Should this take
place, do not start the engine and
contact a Lancia Dealership. In
case of need, lacking the speci-
fied fluid, top up with water and
contact a Lancia Dealership to
have the proper proportions
restored.

The cooling system is

pressurised. If necessary,
replace the cap with a

genuine spare part to avoid com-
promising the system efficiency.
The mixture of distilled water
and PARAFLU gives freeze pro-
tection down to -35°C. 

POWER STEERING FLUID 
(fig. 14-15)

Fluid level in the reservoir should

be at the maximum.

This check should be performed

when the engine is cold and with the
car on level ground.

For topping up, remove cap A,

after loosening the fastening screws
B with the wrench provided (in the
tool bag), then remove hose C and
loosen cap D.

Check that the level reaches the

MAX reference line on the dipstick
integral with the reservoir cap (for
cold check use the level indicated on
the 20 °C side of the dipstick).

If the fluid level in the reservoir is

below the specified one, top up only
with one of the products shown in
table “Fluids and lubricants” in
chapter “Technical Specifications”
proceeding as follows:

– Start the engine and wait for the

oil level in the reservoir to stabilise.

– With the engine running, turn the

steering wheel lock to lock a few
minutes.

– Top up to the MAX reference line

and then refit the cap D.

323

Oil consumption is ex-

tremely low. If the oil level
needs topping up again af-

ter a short period of time, have the
system checked for leakage at a
Lancia Dealership.

BRAKE AND HYDRAULIC
CLUTCH FLUID (fig. 16)

Unscrew cap A: check that the fluid

level in the reservoir is at maximum.

Fluid level in the reservoir shall not

exceed the MAX mark.

If fluid has to be added, it is sug-

gested to use the brake fluid in table
"Fluids and lubricants" (see chapter
"Technical characteristics"). 

NOTE Clean accurately the tank cap

A and the surrounding surface.

Prevent brake fluid, which

is highly corrosive, from
coming into contact with

painted parts. Should it happen,
immediately wash with water.

Do not let the power

steering fluid come into
contact with hot engine

parts. It catches fire very easily.

fig. 16

L0A0294b

– Refit hose C.

– Refit cap A and check for seal

proper positioning into its seat, then
secure the cap with screws B.

At plug opening, pay maximum at-

tention in order to prevent any impu-
rities from entering the tank.

For topping up, always use a funnel

with integrated filter with mesh equal
to or lower than 0.12 mm.

IMPORTANT Brake fluid absorbs

moisture, for this reason, if the car is
mainly used in areas with a high de-
gree of atmospheric humidity, the
fluid should be replaced at more fre-
quent intervals than specified in the
“Service schedule”.

324

WINDSCREEN/REAR
WINDOW/HEADLIGHT
WASHER FLUID (fig. 17)

To top up, remove cap A and filler

B.

Pour in a mixture of water and

TUTELA PROFESSIONAL SC 35
fluid in the following concentrations:

– 30% of the above specified fluid

and 70% water in summer

– 50% of the above specified fluid

and 50% water in winter

– if the temperature falls below –20

°C use TUTELA PROFESSIONAL
SC 35 undiluted.

Certain commercial

additives for windscreen
washers are inflammable.

The engine compartment con-
tains hot components which may
set it on fire.

Do not travel with the

windscreen washer reser-
voir empty. The wind-

screen washer is fundamental for
improving visibility.

fig. 17

L0A0295b

To prevent damages to

the pump motor, do not
use the windscreen/rear

window/headlight washers when
the reservoir is empty.

The symbol 

π on the

container indicates syn-
thetic brake fluid, distin-

guishing it from the mineral kind.
Using mineral fluids irreversibly
damages the special braking sys-
tem rubber seals. 

Brake fluid is poisonous

and highly corrosive. In
the event of accidental

contact, wash the parts involved
immediately with neutral soap and
water, then rinse thoroughly. Call
the doctor immediately if the fluid
is swallowed.

325

AIR CLEANER

The air cleaner is connected to the

air temperature and intake sensors
which send the electrical signals
required for the correct operation of
the injection and ignition system to
the control unit.

Consequently, the cleaner must

always be in perfect conditions to
ensure correct operation of the
engine and in order to contain con-
sumption and exhaust emissions.

Replace the air cleaner

more frequently than
shown in the Service

Schedule if the car is used on
dusty roads.

The cleaner can be dam-

aged if it is cleaned and
consequently the engine

can be damaged.

DIESEL FILTER

(JTD versions) 

DRAINING THE 
CONDENSE

The presence of water in

the fuel feed circuit can
severely damage the

injection system and make the
engine misfire. Go to a Lancia
Dealership as soon as possible
when the 

c warning light comes

on together with message
“WATER IN DIESEL FILTER” on
the multifunction display to have
the bleeding operation carried
out.

The air cleaner replace-

ment procedure is pro-
vided for indicative pur-

poses only. Have the operation
carried out at a Lancia
Dealership. Car safety can be
compromised if the cleaner
replacement procedure herein
described is not carried out cor-
rectly.

326

Batteries contain sub-

stances that are very
harmful for the environ-

ment. You are advised to have the
battery changed at a Lancia
Dealership. It is properly
equipped for disposing of used
batteries in an environmentally-
friendly way that complies with
the law.

With the battery flat, or

after the interruption of
one of the protection

fuses, or if you want to disconnect
a loaded battery (e.g. for a car
stop period), before opening the
luggage compartment bonnet
carefully read and comply with
the instructions contained in the
paragraph “If battery is to be dis-
connected” in the chapter “In an
emergency”.

DUST/POLLEN
FILTER

This filter has a mechanical/elec-

trostatic air filtering action, provid-
ed that windows and doors are
closed.

Have the dust/pollen filter checked

once a year at a Lancia Dealership,
preferably at the onset of summer.

If the car is often used in dusty or

extremely polluted environments,
have the filter replaced more fre-
quently than specified in the Service
Schedule.

IMPORTANT Failure to replace

this filter can significantly reduce
climate control system effectiveness.

BATTERY

The battery is of the “Low

Maintenance” type and is fitted with
an indicator A (fig. 18) for checking
the electrolyte level and battery
charge.

Under normal condition of use top-

ping up the electrolyte with distilled
water is therefore not required. A
periodical check is however neces-
sary to make sure it is in efficient
conditions through the indicator on
the battery cover which should be
dark in colour with a green central
area.

If the indicator is a bright colour,

or dark without the green central
area, contact a Lancia Dealership.

fig. 18

L0A0164b

327

If the car is left inactive

for long periods at cold,
remove the battery and

store it in a warm place to pre-
vent freezing.

CHECKING THE BATTERY 
CHARGE

The quality of the battery charge can be checked through the indicator (where

required).

If the battery is not fitted with electrolyte level indicator, the relevant checks

must only be carried out by authorised personnel.

To check the battery charge, slacken the two fastening screws and open the

cover. Check the battery charge and then reclose the cover, take care to prevent
pinching and short circuits.

Depending on the colour of the indicator, proceed as described in the table

below or on the label B (fig. 18) on the battery.

Incorrect fitting of elec-

trical and electronic
accessories can seriously

damage the car. If you want to
add accessories after buying the
car (free-hand phone kit, etc.)
visit a Lancia Dealership. They
can suggest the most suitable
accessories to get and check
whether the electric system can
support the required load or
whether a larger capacity battery
is required.

When working on the

battery or near it, always
wear the proper goggles.

Running the battery with

low fluid level can dam-
age the battery beyond

repair and could also cause its
explosion.

Bright white 
colour

Dark colour 
without green
central area

Dark colour 
with green 
central area

Top up electrolyte

Low battery
charge

Electrolyte level 
and battery charge
sufficient

Contact a 
Lancia Dealership

Charge the battery 
(advisable to contact a 
Lancia Dealership)

No action needed

328

CHARGING THE BATTERY

IMPORTANT The battery charg-

ing procedure is described only for
information purposes since this
operation must be carried out by a
Lancia Dealership.

Charging should be slow at a low

amp rating for about 24 hours.
Charging for a longer period of time
may damage the battery.

Before reloading care-

fully read and comply with
instructions contained in

the paragraph “If battery is to be
disconnected” in the chapter “In
an emergency”. 

To charge the battery proceed as

follows:

– Disconnect battery negative ter-

minal (–).

– Connect the battery charger wires

to the battery terminals and check
for proper bias.

– Turn the battery charger on.

– After charging, turn the battery

charger off before disconnecting it
from the battery.

– Reconnect the battery negative

terminal (–).

The liquid in the battery

is poisonous and corrosive.
Do not let it touch the skin

or eyes. Recharging the battery
should be done in a well-venti-
lated area and away from naked
flames or possible sources of
sparks: explosion and fire risk.

Never attempt to charge

a frozen battery: it must
be thawed first, otherwise

it may explode. If freezing has
took place, the battery should be
checked before charging by spe-
cialised personnel, to make sure
that the internal elements are not
damaged and that the body is not
cracked, with the risk of leaking
poisonous and corrosive acid.

IMPORTANT A battery which is

kept at a charge of less than 50% for
any length of time will be damaged
by sulphation leading to a reduction
in cranking power and a higher risk
of the battery electrolyte freezing
(this may even occur at –10 °C). If
the car is inactive for a long period
of time, refer to “Storing the car”, in
chapter “Driving your car”.

REPLACING THE 
BATTERY

If required, replace the battery

with a genuine spare part presenting
the same specifications. If a battery
with different specifications is fitted,
the frequencies shown in the Service
Schedule in this chapter will no
longer apply. Refer to the instruc-
tions provided by the battery
Manufacturer.

IMPORTANT Before opening the

luggage compartment bonnet to dis-
connect the battery, carefully read
and comply with instructions con-
tained in the paragraph “If battery is
to be disconnected” in the chapter
“In an emergency”. 

329

USEFUL ADVICE FOR 
LENGTHENING THE LIFE OF
YOUR BATTERY

To prevent rapidly draining the

battery and ensure that it continues
to work correctly, the following
should be noted:

– Terminals must always be firmly

tightened.

– Do not keep accessories (e.g.

sound system, hazard lights, parking
lights, etc.).

– When you park the car, ensure

the doors, boot and bonnet are
closed properly. The ceiling lights
must be off.

– Before working on the electrical

system, disconnect the negative
cable from the battery.

– If after buying the car, you want

to install electric accessories which
require permanent electric supply,
visit a Lancia Dealership, whose
qualified personnel, in addition to
suggesting the most suitable devices
belonging to the Lineaccessori
Lancia, will evaluate the overall
electric absorption, checking
whether the car’s electric system is
capable of withstanding the load
required, or whether it should be
integrated with a more powerful
battery. These devices in fact take
electricity also when the ignition key
is removed (car parked, engine off),
and can gradually drain the battery.
The overall intake of these devices
(standard and after-market) must
be less than 0.6 mA x Ah (of the bat-
tery), as shown in the following
table.

Battery

Maximum

idle intake

70 Ah

42 mA

80 Ah

48 mA

100 Ah

60 mA

It is also important to remember

that high intake devices (such as
bottle warmers, vacuum cleaners,
cellular phones, frigo bar, etc.) will
speed up battery discharging when
powered with engine off or running
idle.

– Please note that when installing

additional systems in the car, incor-
rect wiring can be dangerous espe-
cially when concerning safety sys-
tems.

330

SPARK PLUGS

The cleanness and soundness of the

spark plugs are very important for
keeping the engine efficient and pol-
luting emissions down.

The appearance of the spark plug,

if examined by expert eyes, is a good
way of pinpointing a problem even if
it has nothing to do with the ignition
system. Therefore, if the engine has
problems, it is important to have the
spark plugs checked at a Lancia
Dealership.

The spark plugs must be

changed at the times
specified in the Service

Schedule. Only use the type of
plugs indicated. If the heat ratio
is less than required or the life
specified is not guaranteed, prob-
lems can arise.

ELECTRONIC
CONTROL UNITS

When the car is being used normal-

ly, special measures are not neces-
sary.

The following instructions must be

followed very carefully, however, if
you work on the electrical system or
in cases where emergency starting is
necessary:

– never disconnect the battery from

the electrical system while the
engine is running

– disconnect the battery from the

electrical system if you are recharg-
ing it. The modern battery chargers
can discharge voltage up to 20V

– never perform emergency start-

ups with a battery charger. Always
use an auxiliary battery

– be particularly careful when con-

necting the battery to the electrical
system. Make sure that the polarity
is correct and that the connection is
efficient

– do not connect or disconnect the

terminals of the electronic control
unit while the ignition key is at MAR

– do not check polarity through

sparking

– disconnect the electronic control

units if you are electrically welding
the car body. Remove the units if
temperatures exceed 80°C (special
operations on the bodywork, etc.).

Modifications or repairs

to the electrical system
carried out incorrectly

and without bearing the features
of the system in mind can cause
malfunctions with the risk of fire.

331

WHEELS
AND TYRES

TYRE PRESSURE

Check the pressure of each tyre,

including the spare, every two weeks
and before long journeys.

The pressure should be checked

with the tyre rested and cold.

It is normal for the pressure to rise

when you are driving. If you have to
check or restore the pressure when
the tyres are warm, remember that
the pressure value must be 0.3 bar
above the specified value.

For proper tyre inflation pressure,

see “Wheels” in chapter “Technical
Specifications”.

Tyre pressure must be

correct to ensure good
road holding.

Wrong pressure causes uneven

wear of the tyres (fig. 19):

A - Correct pressure: tyre wears

evenly.

B - Under inflated tyre: shoulder

tread wear.

C - Over inflated tyre: centre tread

wear.

If the pressure is too low

the tyre overheats and
this can cause it serious

damage.

Tyres must be replaced when the

tread wears down to 1.6 mm. In any
case, comply with the laws in the
country where the car is being dri-
ven.

fig. 19

L0A0161b

332

If you replace a tyre it is a good

idea to change the inflation valve,
too.

To ensure the front and rear tyres

all wear evenly, you are advised to
change the tyres over every 10-15
thousand kilometres, keeping them
on the same side of the car so as to
not reverse the direction of rotation.

Do not change the tyres

over in criss-cross fash-
ion by moving a tyre from

the left hand side of the car to the
right and vice versa.

GENERAL NOTES

As far as possible, avoid sharp

braking and screech starts, etc.

Be careful not to hit the kerb, pot-

holes or other obstacles hard.
Driving for long stretches over
bumpy roads can damage the tyres.
Periodically check that the tyres
have no cuts in the sidewalls, abnor-
mal swelling or irregular tyre wear.
If any of these occur, have the car
seen to at a Lancia Dealership.

Avoid overloading your car: this

can seriously damage wheels and
tyres.

If you get a flat tyre, stop immedi-

ately and change it so as not to dam-
age the tyre, the wheel, the suspen-
sion and the steering. Tyres age even
if they are not used very much.
Cracking of the tread rubber and the
sidewalls are a sign of this ageing. In
any case, if the tyres have been fitted
for more than six years they should
be examined by an expert who can
judge whether they are still fit for
use. Remember to check the spare
tyre particularly carefully too

If a replacement is necessary,

always use new tyres and avoid
using ones the origin of which you
are not certain about.

Lancia THESIS fits tubeless tyres.

Under no circumstances use an inner
tube with these tyres.