1997 Mercury Villager Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 292

Maintenance and Care If you must check the power steering fluid when it is cold, make sure that the fluid reaches at least the minimum (MIN) mark. The reading will only be accurate if the fluid temperature is approximately 70˚ to 100˚F (21˚ to 38˚C). 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. However, if the transaxle is not working properly (for example, slipping or shifting slowly), or you notice some sign of fluid leakage, the fluid level should be checked. It is best to check the transaxle fluid level at normal operating temperature, after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving. However, if necessary, you can check the fluid level without having to drive 20 miles (30 km) to obtain a normal operating temperature if outside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C). NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds or in city traffic during hot weather, or if it has been pulling a trailer, the engine should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid With the vehicle on a level surface, start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear ranges allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gearshift lever in the P (Park) position, fully 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 and make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the fluid level. 295