2001 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 2nd Printing - Page 223

Maintenance and care 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 with a clean, dry lint free rag. 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 level should be in the designated areas for normal and room temperature. Low fluid level Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the dipstick. Correct fluid level The transaxle fluid level should be checked at normal operating temperatures 66º C - 77º C (150º F -170º F) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20 miles) of driving. The transaxle fluid should be in this range if at normal operating temperature of 66º C - 77º C (150º F - 170º F). Do not drive if below this area Normal operating temperature 66º C - 77º C (150º F - 170º F)