1997 Mercury Cougar Owner's Manual - Page 220

u Reinstall the pressure cap securely. u Check for leaks at the draincock. u Recheck the engine coolant level, using the recommended procedure, after one or two occasions of vehicle use. 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 3.8L SFI engine 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 on the dipstick (which is highlighted in yellow in your vehicle). The fluid level should be between the arrows in the FULL HOT range, which is marked on the side of the dipstick, opposite the side marked FULL COLD. Do not add fluid if the level is within the FULL HOT range. If the power steering fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking the level, until you reach the FULL HOT range. Do not overfill. 2. 3. 4. 5. 220