1996 Mercury Mystique Owner's Manual - Page 226

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. Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake fully applied, start the engine and move the gear shift selector through all of the gears allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gear shift 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. NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven until some fluid has been added if the fluid level is below the bottom dimple on the dipstick and the outside temperature is above 50˚F (10˚C). Add only enough fluid to bring the level above the bottom hole. If the vehicle has not been driven and the fluid level is above the bottom dimple on the dipstick, do not add fluid. Recheck the fluid level after your vehicle has reached normal operating temperature. Normal operating temperature is reached after driving approximately 20 miles (30 km). The fluid level should be within the crosshatched area on the dipstick. 230