FNR5 - Automatic Transaxle
Check Transmission Fluid Level and ConditionCAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the transmission fluid level indicator shows the transmission fluid below the minimum fluid level mark or internal failure may result.
If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period of time at highway speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid needs to cool down to obtain an accurate reading.
The transmission fluid level reading on the transmission fluid level indicator will differ depending on operating and ambient temperatures. The correct reading should be within the normal operating temperature range.
Transmission Fluid Level Check
NOTE: The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperature 60°C-70°C (140°F-158°F) on a level surface. Normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 kin (20 mi) of driving and can be checked using the scan tool.
Under normal circumstances the transmission fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of fluid leaking, the transmission fluid level should be checked.
1. With the transaxle in PARK, the engine at idle, foot pressed on the brake, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever in the PARK position.
2. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator cap and remove the transmission fluid level indicator.
3. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
4. Install the transmission fluid level indicator back in the transmission fluid indicator tube until it is fully seated, then remove the transmission fluid level indicator. The transmission fluid level should be within the normal operating range.
High Transmission Fluid Level
A transmission fluid level that is too high may cause the transmission fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of transmission fluid from the vent tube and possible transaxle malfunction and/or damage.
Low Transmission Fluid Level
A low transmission fluid level could result in poor transaxle engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transaxle seals or gaskets.
Adding Transmission Fluid
CAUTION: MERCON(R) V, MERCON(R) SP, Motorcraft Premium Automatic Transmission Fluid, Motorcraft Continuously Variable Chain Type Transmission Fluid and FNR5 Automatic Transmission Fluid are not interchangeable transmission fluids. The use of any fluid other than what is recommended for this transmission will cause transmission damage.
If transmission fluid needs to be added, add fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pt) increments through the indicator tube. Do not overfill the transmission fluid. For transmission fluid type, refer to the specification chart.
Transmission Fluid Condition Check
1. Check the transmission fluid level.
2. Observe the color and the odor. The color under normal circumstances should be a dark red color, not brown or black or have a burnt odor.
3. Hold the transmission fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the transmission fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
4. If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
5. If the stain is a foamy pink color, this may indicate coolant in the transaxle. The engine cooling system should also be inspected at this time.
6. If transmission fluid contamination or transaxle failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, install a new transaxle. If installing a new transaxle, the transmission fluid cooler and transmission fluid cooler tubes should be cleaned.
7. If the transaxle is to be overhauled or if installing a new transaxle, install a new transmission fluid cooler.