1999 Mercury Cougar Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 186

Maintenance and care Automatic transaxle fluid Follow the scheduled service intervals outlined in the "Scheduled Maintenance 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 transaxle fluid at least twice a year. The fluid level should be checked if the transaxle is not working properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some sign of fluid leakage. Transaxle fluid should be checked at normal operating temperatures of 66°C - 77°C (150°F - 170°F) on a level surface while engine is running in P (Park) gearshift lever position. The normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 miles) of driving. 186