2023-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio FCW/ACC Warning Light TSB

Symptoms of the FCW/ACC Warning

Owners of 2023-2025 Alfa Romeo Stelvio models may observe a "collision radar warning light" temporarily illuminating on the instrument panel control cluster. This is often accompanied by a "temporary inhibition of the FCW" and the ACC systems. A dedicated "message is displayed on IPC" (Instrument Panel Control Cluster) indicating temporary deactivation.

Fault Codes (DTCs)

During these events, one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) may be stored in the vehicle's system, even though the condition is considered normal and self-resolving:

These codes indicate issues with the front radar sensor, specifically related to its alignment or obstruction.

Trigger Conditions for Temporary Deactivation

The temporary deactivation of the FCW and ACC systems, leading to the Alfa Romeo Stelvio FCW ACC warning, is typically caused by conditions that affect the front radar's ability to detect obstacles accurately. These conditions include:

• Uneven Vehicle Weight Distribution: Changes in how the vehicle's weight is distributed.
• Vehicle Geometry Changes: Alterations to the vehicle's physical dimensions or stance.
• Limited Radar References: Driving on roads with few objects for the radar to reference, such as guard rails, road signs, or other vehicles.
• Severe Weather: Heavy snowfall or intense rain can interfere with radar operation.
• Highly Reflective Environments: Tunnels with reflective tiles, icy or snowy roads, or areas with road construction can cause radar interference.
• Radar Obstruction: The presence of mud, dirt, ice, or other debris on the bumper or the radar's surface and/or cover.

Important Warnings for Owners

Alfa Romeo explicitly states that if the "collision radar warning light" is temporarily on, and the FCW and ACC systems are "temporarily inhibited", the vehicle is conforming to its design. "This is not a fault but rather a message alerting the driver that the FCW and possibly ACC (if activated) functions are temporarily inhibited." The problem typically resolves itself once the conditions causing the interference subside. If the "anti-collision warning light" illuminates temporarily and the AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) system subsequently returns to full functionality, "the vehicle is conforming and no radar adjustment is required."

Owner Action and When to Seek Service

For most instances of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio FCW ACC warning, the system will return to normal operation on its own. However, if the message is displayed frequently, even when there are no obvious environmental factors like snow, rain, mud, or other obstructions, it is recommended to check and clean the radar surface. This may involve manually removing the aesthetic cover plate to ensure the radar is clear. If the issue persists after cleaning and in clear conditions, consult your authorized Alfa Romeo service center.

Source: NHTSA Manufacturer Communication 11000807