Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)

Refer to your scheduled maintenance information for scheduled intervals for fluid checks and changes. Your transmission does not consume fluid. However, the fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transmission slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage.

Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up (approximately 20 miles [30 km]). If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before checking.

1. Drive the vehicle 20 miles (30 km) or until it reaches normal operating temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If necessary, refer to Identifying components in the engine compartment in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in the operating range for normal operating temperature.

Low fluid level

Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is at the bottom of the dipstick and the outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).

Correct fluid level

The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 185°F-200°F (85°C-93°C) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving.

The transmission fluid should be in the zone, identified by the arrow in this figure, if at normal operating temperature 185°F-200°F (85°C-93°C).

High fluid level

Fluid levels above the zone, identified by the arrows in this figure, may result in transmission failure. An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition.

Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels

Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick blade. Refer to Maintenance product specifications and capacities in this chapter

Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause internal transmission component damage.

If necessary, add fluid in 1/2 pint (250 ml) increments through the filler tube until the level is correct.

If an overfill occurs, excess fluid should be removed by an authorized dealer.

An overfill condition of transmission fluid may cause shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.

Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.

Checking transmission fluid level for recreational flat towoperation

Before recreational flat towing your vehicle, the transmission fluid level may need to be set to a lower level. These guidelines are designed to prevent damage to your transmission. Before you recreational flat tow, your fluid level must be verified by an authorized dealer.

This fluid level is within the normal operating fluid range and does not require that you have your fluid level readjusted after recreational flat tow operation.

See the Tires, Wheels and Loading chapter for more information on recreational flat towing.

Checking and adding manual transmission fluid (if equipped)

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Engage the parking brake fully – put in first gear.
3. Ensure the vehicle cannot move.
4. Clean the filler plug.
5. Remove the filler plug, located on the lower, forward driver side of the transmission, and inspect the fluid level.

6. Fluid level should be at bottom of the opening.
7. Add enough fluid through the filler opening so that the fluid level is at the bottom of the opening.
8. Install and tighten the fill plug securely.

Use only fluid that meets Ford specifications. Refer to the Maintenance product specifications and capacities section in this chapter.