Transaxle Normal Operating Temperature Fluid Level Check

Fig 1: Identifying Fluid Level Mark

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION:

1. MERCON®, MERCON® V, MERCON®SP, Motorcraft Premium Automatic Transmission Fluid and Motorcraft Continuously Variable Chain Type Transmission Fluid are not interchangeable transmission fluids. The use of any fluid other than what is recommend will cause transmission damage.
2. This procedure is only designed to check the transmission fluid level at normal operating temperatures. Do not use this procedure for setting correct fluid level. Continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic transmission fluid is a unique fluid and has different expansion characteristics compared to other transmission fluids. Correct fluid level setting must be done in the 43-47°C (109-117°F) range following the fluid level setting procedure. Failure to follow these instructions will cause damage to the transaxle.
3. A transaxle that is overfilled or underfilled will cause internal damage and/or cause fluid to leak from the vent tube.

NOTE: This procedure is designed for checking the fluid level on a vehicle that has just come off the road with the transmission fluid in the normal operating range of 88-92°C (190-198°F).

1. Place the vehicle on a level surface.
2. Using the special tool, verify that the transmission fluid temperature is in the normal operating range of 88°C-92°C (190°F-198°F).
3. Once the transmission fluid temperature range is verified, with the engine idling, set the park brake and move the transmission selector level through all gear positions placing it in PARK.
4. Remove the fluid level indicator and wipe it with a clean, lint free rag.
   Fig 2: Locating Fluid Level Indicator

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
5. Place the fluid level indicator back into the fluid level indicator tube until it is fully seated, then remove the fluid indicator.
   • With the transmission fluid in the normal operating temperature range of 88-92°C (190-198°F), the minimum acceptable level would be at the bottom of the Crosshatch mark on the fluid level indicator. The maximum acceptable level would be no higher than the top of the Crosshatch, 12 mm (0.47 in) from the top of the upper level setting hole area.
6. Verify the correct fluid level for normal operating temperature range.
7. If fluid needs to be added, turn off the engine and allow the continuously variable transmission (CVT) transmission fluid to cool to the correct level setting range 43-47°C (109-117°F) and follow the transmission fluid level setting procedure for setting correct CVT transmission fluid level.