1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 294

Engine oils with an SAE 5W-30 viscosity are PREFERRED for your vehicle. They provide the best engine performance, fuel economy and engine protection for all climates down to -15˚F (-25˚C). Synthetic engine oils which are CERTIFIED and of the preferred viscosity may be used in your engine. The engine oil and oil filter must still be changed according to the maintenance schedule. Checking and Adding Engine Oil Since the proper amount of engine oil is important for safe engine operation, check the oil using the dipstick each time you put fuel in your vehicle. Remember the engine must be off, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be parked on level ground. Checking the engine oil level: 1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up and allow a few minutes for the engine oil to drain back into the oil pan. Set the parking brake fully and make sure that the gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic transaxle) or 1 (First) (manual transaxle). Open the hood. Protect yourself from engine heat. Locate the engine oil dipstick (highlighted in yellow) and carefully pull it out of the engine. Wipe the dipstick clean and put it back into position, making sure it is fully seated. 2. 3. 4. 5. 295