1997 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 281

6. Carefully pull the dipstick out again. If the oil level is below the "L" line, add engine oil as necessary. If the oil level is beyond the letter "H," engine damage or high oil consumption may occur and some oil must be removed from the engine. 7. Put the dipstick back in and make sure it is fully seated. Adding engine oil It may be necessary to add some oil between oil changes. Make sure you use a CERTIFIED engine oil of the preferred viscosity. Your vehicle's warranty coverage may not apply if engine damage is caused by the use of improper engine oil. Add engine oil through the oil filler cap highlighted in yellow. To add oil, remove the filler cap and use a funnel to pour oil into the opening. Be careful not to overfill the engine. Recheck the oil level after you finish adding oil. Changing the Engine Oil and the Oil Filter Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for additional information. Follow these directions to change the engine oil and oil filter: 1. Turn the engine off after it has warmed up. 2. Protect yourself from engine heat and the engine oil being drained. 3. Remove the oil pan drain plug(s) and oil filter. 4. Drain the oil into a container until flow from the drain plug hole(s) and the filter mounting area slows to a drip. 5. Install the drain plug(s) and a new engine oil filter according to directions on the package. 284