1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 314

Automatic Transaxle Fluid Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid level of the transaxle, since your vehicle does not use up transaxle fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Record booklet for replacement intervals. However, if the transaxle is not working properly - for instance, the transaxle may slip or shift slowly, or you may notice some sign of fluid leakage - the fluid level should be checked. NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, driven in city traffic during hot weather, or has been pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid It is preferable to check the transaxle fluid level at normal operating temperature after approximately 20 miles (32 km) of driving. With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake pedal fully applied, start the engine and move the gearshift selector through all of the gears. Allow sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gearshift selector in the P (Park) position. Fully set the parking brake and leave the engine running. Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out. Wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. When checking fluid at the normal operating temperature, the fluid level should be within the normal operating temperature marks on the 315