1998 Mercury Tracer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 137

Maintenance and care TRANSMISSION FLUID Checking and adding automatic transmission fluid Follow the scheduled service intervals outlined in the "Service Guide." Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick and/or dipstick handle and also in the Lubricant specifications section in the Capacities and specifications chapter. Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid level is below the hole at the bottom of the dipstick and outside temperatures are above 10°C (50°F). Your transaxle does not use up fluid. However, it is recommended that you check the transmission fluid at least twice a year. The fluid level should be checked if the transmission is not working properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving. If your vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic during hot 137