1996 Ford Escort Owner's Manual - Page 318
1996 Ford Escort Manual
Page 318 highlights
RWARNING Do not let the reservoir for the master cylinder run dry. This may cause the brakes to fail. Power Steering Fluid Check the level of the power steering fluid at least twice a year (i.e., every Spring and Fall). Checking and Adding Power Steering Fluid 1. Start the engine and let it run until the power steering fluid reaches normal operating temperature. The power steering fluid will be at the right temperature when the engine coolant temperature gauge in the instrument cluster is near the center of the NORMAL operating temperature range. While the engine idles, turn the steering wheel back and forth several times. Make sure that the cap assembly is installed at this time. Turn the engine off. Check the fluid level in the reservoir. The fluid level should be in between the F (Full) and L (Low) markings on the reservoir. If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking the level until you reach the F (Full) range. Do not overfill. To find out how much fluid your vehicle's reservoir for the power steering fluid will hold, see Refill capacities in the Index. When you are finished, put the reservoir cap back on and make sure that it fits snugly. 319 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.