check transmission fluid Mercury Villager 1998 Owner's Manuals

Automatic Transmission Fluid
Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid
level of the transaxle since your vehicle does not use up
transmission fluid. However, if the transaxle is not working
properly (for example, slipping or shifting slowly), or you notice
some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked.
It is best to check the transmission fluid level at normal operating
temperature, after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving.
However, if necessary, you can check the fluid level without having
to drive 20 miles (30 km) to obtain a normal operating
temperature if outside temperatures are above 50É F (10É C).
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period
at high speeds or in city traffic during hot weather, or
if it has been pulling a trailer, the engine should be
turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to
cool before checking.
Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid
With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and move the
gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges allowing
sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the
gearshift lever in the P (Park) position, fully set the parking brake
and leave the engine running.
Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out and wipe the
indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and
make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the
fluid level.
Maintenance and Care
291

When checking fluid at normal operating temperature, the
fluid level should be within the crosshatched area on the dipstick.
When the vehicle has not been driven, and outside temperature
is above 50É F (10É C), the fluid level should be between the notches
on the dipstick.
WARNING
Your vehicle should not be driven if the transmission
fluid level is below the bottom notch on the dipstick.
Adding Automatic Transmission Fluid
The fluid type is stamped on the dipstick. Before adding any
fluid, be sure that the correct type will be used.
Add fluid in 1/2 pint (0.25 liter) increments through the filler
tube to bring the level to the correct area on the dipstick. If an
overfill occurs, excess fluid should be removed by a qualified
technician.
Engine compartment main fuse panel
292

NOTE: Always dispose of used automotive fluids in a
responsible manner. Follow your community's
standards for disposing of these types of fluids. Call
your local recycling center to find out about recycling
automotive fluids.
NOTE: Always use Motorcraft MERCONtor equivalent
MERCONtautomatic transmission fluid when you
refill your automatic transmission fluid.
Battery
The Motorcraft maintenance-free battery normally does not
require additional water during its life of service. However, for
severe service usage or in high temperature climates, check your
battery electrolyte level, at least every 24 months or 24,000
miles (40,000 km). Keep the electrolyte in each cell up to the ``level''
indicator. Do not overfill the battery cells. For longer,
trouble-free operation, keep the top of the battery clean and dry.
Also, make certain the battery cables are always tightly
fastened to the battery terminals.
If you see any corrosion on the battery cables or terminals,
remove the cables from the terminal(s) and clean with a wire
brush. You can neutralize the acid with a solution of baking soda
Automatic transmission fluid dipstick
Maintenance and Care
293

Automatic transmission
driving an automatic overdrive..............223
fluid, adding.......................291
B
Backing up.........................222
Battery
acid, treating emergencies............268, 294, 295
charging system warning light..............14
disconnecting......................272
proper disposal, recycling................294
voltage gauge.......................14
when storing your vehicle................335
Brake fluid.........................282
brake warning light....................9
checking and adding...................282
description........................282
specifications....................283, 339
Brakes...........................215
adjustment........................215
anti-lock.........................215
applying the brakes...................218
brake warning light....................9
fluid, checking and adding................282
fluid, refill capacities...................282
fluid, specifications.................283, 339
front disc........................215
if brakes do not grip well..............217, 218
lubricant specifications..................339
master cylinder.....................282
new brake linings.....................5
noise........................215, 217
parking.........................218
power braking......................215
374