Caution: See TSB 06-14-4

Fluid Level Check

CAUTION: The vehicle should not be driven if the automatic transmission fluid (ATF) level is below the cold fluid level indicator; underfill can result in loss of engagement or slipping.

CAUTION: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speed, in city traffic, in hot weather, or the vehicle is being used to pull a trailer, the ATF has to cool approximately 30 minutes after the engine has been turned off to obtain an accurate reading.

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Apply the parking brake and block the wheels.
3. Start the engine, depress the brake pedal and move the gearshift lever through each range. Allow time in each range to engage the transmission, then return the gearshift lever to the PARK position.
4. Allow the ATF to reach normal operating temperature, 60°-70°C (140°- 158°F) . Do not turn off the engine during the Fluid Level Check.
5. Clean all dirt from the transmission fluid level indicator cap.
6. Pull the fluid level indicator out of the transmission oil filler tube, wipe it clean, and push it all the way back into the tube. Make sure it is fully seated.
7. Pull the fluid level indicator out of the transmission oil filler tube again and check the fluid level.
8. If the ATF is below the indicated level, add Motorcraft MERCON (R) Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford specification MERCON. MERCON (R) Automatic Transmission Fluid is being replaced by MERCON (R) V as a service fluid, as per TSB 06-14-4.

High Fluid Level
An ATF level that is too high may cause the fluid to become aerated due to the chuming action of the rotating parts of the transmission. Aerated fluid will cause erratic control pressure, and the aerated fluid may be forced from the vent.

Low Fluid Level
If the ATF level is too low, the transmission operation will be affected. Low ATF level may indicate leaks that could cause transmission damage; refer to ATF Leak Check.

Adding Fluid

CAUTION: Use of any ATF other than specified could result in transmission malfunction or failure.

If ATF level is too low, add Motorcraft MERCON (R) Multi-Purpose Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-2-QDX or equivalent meeting Ford specification MERCON as needed.

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

Fluid Condition Check

1. Carry out the Fluid Level Check; refer to Fluid Level Check.
2. Observe the color and odor of the ATF. It should be dark reddish, not brown or black. The odor can sometimes indicate that there is an overheating condition, clutch disc failure or band failure.
3. Use an absorbent white facial tissue to wipe the fluid level indicator. Examine the stain for evidence of solids (specks of any kind) and engine coolant gum or varnish on the facial tissue.

If specks are present in the fluid or there is evidence of engine coolant, the transmission fluid pan must be removed for further inspection. If fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by further evidence of coolant or excessive solids in the transmission fluid pan, the transmission must be disassembled and completely cleaned and repaired. This includes cleaning the torque converter and transmission cooling system. Do not carry out any further checks before cleaning and repairing the transmission. During disassembly and assembly, all overhaul checks and adjustments of clearances and end play must be made. After the transmission has been repaired, all diagnostic tests and adjustments listed in Diagnosis by Symptom must be completed to ensure that the concern has been corrected. See: Symptom Related Diagnostic Procedures