Transmission Fluid Level Check

Under normal circumstances, the transmission fluid level should be checked during normal maintenance. If the transaxle starts to slip, shifts slowly or shows signs of transmission fluid leaking, the transmission fluid level should be checked.

1. NOTE: On vehicles equipped with a 3.5L Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection (GTDI) engine, it is necessary to remove the Air Cleaner (ACL) assembly and outlet pipe and install the ACL  outlet pipe on the turbocharger inlet pipe with the ACL  positioned aside and the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor connector connected to access the transmission fluid level indicator.

   For vehicles equipped with a 3.5L GTDI  engine, remove the ACL  and outlet pipe. For additional information, refer to INTAKE AIR DISTRIBUTION & FILTERING . Connect the MAF  sensor and position the ACL  assembly and outlet pipe on the turbocharger inlet pipe, positioned aside to access the transmission fluid level indicator. Tighten the clamp. Correctly install the ACL  and outlet pipe when the transmission fluid level has been checked and adjusted.

   • Tighten to 5 Nm (44 lb-in).
   Fig 1: Locating MAF Sensor, ACL Assembly And Outlet Pipe

   Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
2. With the selector lever in PARK, the engine at idle and foot pressed on the brake, move the selector lever through each gear and allow engagement of each gear. Place the selector lever in the PARK position.
3. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator cap and remove the transmission fluid level indicator.
4. Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
5. Install the transmission fluid level indicator back in the transaxle filler tube until it is fully seated, then remove the transmission fluid level indicator. The transmission fluid level should be within the normal operating range.

Fig 2: Identifying Transmission Fluid Level Marks

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.