Check Fluid Level and Condition

Fluid Level Check

Transmission Fluid Indicator Reading:

Under normal circumstances, there is no need to check the fluid level of the transaxle, since the vehicle does not use up transmission fluid. However, if the transaxle is not working properly, for instance, the transaxle may slip or shift slowly, or there may be some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked.

CAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom hole on the fluid level indicator and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F).

NOTE: If the vehicle has been operating for an extended period at high speeds or in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the engine should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking.

It is preferable to check the transmission fluid level at normal operating temperature after approximately 20 miles (32 km) of driving. However, if necessary, the fluid level can be checked without having to drive 20 miles (32 km) to obtain normal operating temperature if the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F).

With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and move the transaxle range selector lever through all of the gear ranges, allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely engage the transaxle range selector lever in the PARK position, fully set the parking brake, and leave the engine running.

Wipe off the fluid level indicator cap, pull the fluid level indicator out and wipe clean. Put the fluid level indicator back into the filler tube and make sure it is seated properly. Pull out the fluid level indicator and read the fluid level.

When checking fluid at normal operating temperature, the fluid level should be within the crosshatched area on the fluid level indicator. When the vehicle has not been driven, and the outside temperature is above 10°C (50°F), the fluid level should be between the hole and the lower edge of the crosshatched area on the fluid level indicator.

High or Low Fluid Level
A fluid level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating parts of the transaxle. Aerated fluid will cause erratic line pressure, which result in harsh/soft shifts or engagements, damage to the clutch material, improper torque converter operation, and fluid coming out of the vent. If fluid level is too high, excess fluid must be removed.

A fluid level that is too low will affect transaxle operation, such as: slipping, slow engagements, and damage to internal hardware. Low levels may also indicate that a leak is present in the fluid system. If fluid level was low, add fluid.

Adding Fluid

CAUTION: Use of any fluid other than specified could result in transaxle malfunction or failure.

If you need to add fluid. first check for the correct fluid type (MERCON) stamped on the fluid indicator.

Before adding any fluid, be sure that the correct type will be used.

Add fluid in 0.25 L (1/2 pint) increments through the filler tube to bring the level to the correct area on the dipstick. If an overfill occurs, excess fluid must be removed.

Fluid Change - Drain/Refill

1. Use the index and select the symptom/concern that best describes the condition
2. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
3. Place a suitable container under the transaxle drain plug.

NOTE: If an internal transaxle problem is suspected, drain the fluid through a paper filter, such as a coffee filter. A small amount of metal or friction particles may be found from normal wear. However, if excessive metal and friction particles are present, internal repair will be required.

4. Remove the transaxle drain plug and drain the transmission fluid.
5. Install the transaxle drain plug.
6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Add 4.7 liters (5 quarts) of Motorcraft MERCON Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting MERCON(r) specification.
8. Start the engine and run through all gears for total of five minutes at idle. Turn off the engine.
9. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
10. Place a suitable container under the transaxle drain plug.
11. Remove the transaxle drain plug and drain the fluid.
12. After fluid has drained, clean the drain plug threads and apply a small amount of Pipe Sealant With Teflon D8AZ-19554-A or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSK-M2G350-A2.
13. Install the transaxle drain plug and tighten to 25-29 Nm (19-21 ft. lbs.).
14. Remove the drain pan and any other obstructions and lower the vehicle.
15. Add 3.7 liters (4 quarts) of Motorcraft MERCON(r) Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting MERCON(r) specification. Start the engine and move the transaxle range selector lever through all gear positions. Check the fluid and add as required.

Fluid Condition Check

NOTE: Evidence of fluid contamination, breakdown, or improper fluid can cause poor shift quality. If the transmission fluid condition is suspect, drain the transaxle and replace the fluid with MERCON(r) Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting MERCON(r) specification.

- Make the normal fluid level check.
- Observe the color and odor of the fluid. It should be red, not brown or black. Odor may indicate an overheating condition or clutch disk or band failure.
- Use a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the dipstick. Examine the stain for evidence of solid particles and signs of antifreeze (gum or varnish on the dipstick).

If particles are present in the fluid or there is evidence of contamination, the transaxle drain plug should be removed and a sample of the fluid filtered through a paper filter and examined. If transaxle failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive particles in the fluid, the transaxle must be completely cleaned and repaired. This includes cleaning and flushing the torque converter and transaxle cooling system. During disassembly and assembly all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After repairing the transaxle, all diagnostic tests and adjustments listed in the diagnosis section must be completed to make sure that the problem has been eliminated.