1997 Ford Probe Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 203

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. If you must check the transaxle fluid in an emergency, make sure that your vehicle is on level ground, start the engine, and move the gearshift through all of the gears allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gearshift in P (Park). Set the parking brake and leave the engine running. Wipe off the dipstick cap, pull the dipstick out and wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube. Make sure the dipstick is fully seated in the filler tube; otherwise, you will not get an accurate reading. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. The fluid level must be above the lower mark. If it is not, you should not drive your vehicle until more fluid is added. Ideally, the fluid level should be within the specified area of the dipstick. NOTE: The fluid level indication on the dipstick will be different at operating temperature and room temperature. For the correct fluid level reading on the dipstick, follow the appropriate instructions. 201