Introduction to the Fiat Oil Change Indicator System and Service Indicator Lights
Most Fiat vehicles are equipped with an electronic computer system linked to the dashboard that tells drivers when an oil change and/or engine maintenance is due. The message "CHANGE ENGINE OIL" will appear on the instrument panel for approximately 10 seconds. If a driver neglects a service light such as "CHANGE ENGINE OIL", he or she risks damaging the engine or, worse, being stranded on the side of the road or causing an accident.
For these reasons, performing all scheduled and recommended maintenance on your vehicle is essential to keep it running properly so you can avoid the many untimely, inconvenient, and possibly costly repairs that result from negligence. Luckily, the days of racking your brains and running diagnostics to find the service light trigger are over. The Fiat Engine Oil Change Indicator System is an on-board computer system that alerts owners when service is required so they can resolve the issue quickly and without hassle. At its most basic level, it defines how the vehicle has been driven and under what conditions since it was last serviced. Once the engine oil change indicator system is triggered, the driver knows to schedule an appointment to take the vehicle for service.
How the Fiat Engine Oil Change Indicator Works and What to Expect
The sole function of the Fiat Engine Oil Change Indicator System is to remind the driver to change the oil and other scheduled maintenance as outlined in the standard maintenance schedule. The computer system, which Fiat calls "duty cycle-based", uses algorithms to distinguish between light and extreme driving conditions, cargo weight, towing or weather conditions - important variables that affect oil life and maintenance intervals. While the system has the ability to monitor itself, it is still important to be aware of your driving conditions throughout the year and, if necessary, have a professional determine if your vehicle needs service based on your specific, most frequent driving conditions.
Below is a helpful chart that can give you an idea of how often you might need an oil change in a modern car (older cars often require more frequent oil changes).
- Attention: The life of an engine oil depends not only on the factors listed above, but also on the specific car model, year of manufacture and recommended type of oil. For more information on which oil is recommended for your vehicle, see your owner's manual and feel free to seek advice from one of our experienced technicians.
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL light comes on and you make an appointment to have your vehicle serviced, Fiat recommends a series of checks to help keep your vehicle in good running condition and also help prevent untimely and costly engine damage. , depending on your driving habits and conditions.
Below is a table of Fiat recommended checks for various mileage intervals. This chart is a general picture of what a Fiat maintenance schedule might look like. Depending on variables such as the year and model of the vehicle, as well as your specific driving habits and conditions, this information may change depending on the frequency of maintenance as well as maintenance performed.
After completing an oil change and service, you may need to reset the engine oil change indicator system in your Fiat. Some service people neglect this, which can lead to premature and unnecessary operation of the service indicator. There are many different ways to reset this indicator, depending on your model and year. Consult your owner's manual on how to do this for your Fiat, or talk to an experienced auto mechanic.
Although the Fiat engine oil change indicator system can be used as a reminder to the driver to service the car, it should only be a guide. Other recommended maintenance information is based on the standard time tables found in the user manual. Proper maintenance will greatly extend the life of your vehicle, ensuring reliability, driving safety and a manufacturer's warranty. It also provides great resale value.
Such maintenance work must always be carried out by a qualified person. If you have any doubts about what the Fiat maintenance system means or what services your car may require, do not hesitate to seek advice from our experienced specialists.
If your Fiat service reminder system shows that your vehicle is ready for service, have it checked by a certified mechanic such as AvtoTachki. Click here, select your vehicle and service or package, and book an appointment with us today. One of our certified mechanics will come to your home or office to service your vehicle.
