1996 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 324

Check the electrolyte level of each cell (there are six) at least every 12 months or 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Keep the electrolyte level between the MAX and MIN lines that are on the side of the battery (you will have to remove the battery cover to see the fill lines on the battery). Do not overfill the battery cells. When operating at ambient temperatures above 90˚F (32˚C), check the electrolyte level more frequently. If the level of the electrolyte in a cell of the battery is low, add distilled water until the proper level in each cell is restored. Plain tap water will work; but if it is "hard water" having a high mineral or alkali content, the life of the battery may be reduced and the frequency of maintenance required on the battery will increase. Help Us Protect Our Environment Ford Motor Company strongly recommends that used lead-acid batteries be returned to an authorized recycling facility for disposal. Battery recycling symbol WARNING The gases around the battery can explode if exposed to flames, sparks, or lit cigarettes. An explosion could result in injury or vehicle damage. 330