1997 Ford Aspire Owner's Manual - Page 163

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 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. Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid 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. Pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated; otherwise, you will not get an accurate reading. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick 161