Check Transmission Fluid Level and Condition

NOTE: The vehicle should not be driven if the transmission fluid level indicator shows the transmission fluid below the minimum transmission fluid level mark or internal failure could result.

If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period of time, at highway speeds, in city traffic, in hot weather or while pulling a trailer, the transmission fluid needs to cool down to obtain an accurate reading.

The transmission fluid level reading on the transmission fluid level indicator will differ depending on operating and ambient temperatures. The correct reading should be within the normal operating temperature range.

Transmission Fluid Level Check

NOTE: The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating temperature 82 °C-93 °C (180 °F-200 °F) on a level surface. Normal operating temperature can be reached after approximately 32 km (20 mi) of driving and can be checked using the scan tool.

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

With the transmission in PARK, the engine at idle, 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.
Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator cap and remove the transmission fluid level indicator.
Wipe the transmission fluid level indicator with a clean cloth.
Install the transmission fluid level indicator back in the transmission fluid filler tube until it is fully seated, then remove the indicator. The transmission fluid level should be within the normal operating range.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Item	Description
1	Correct transmission fluid level at operating temperature 82 °C-93 °C (180 °F-200 °F)
2	Low transmission fluid level
3	High transmission fluid level

High Transmission Fluid Level

A transmission fluid level that is too high may cause the transmission fluid to become aerated due to the churning action of the rotating internal parts. This will cause erratic control pressure, foaming, loss of transmission fluid from the vent tube and possible transmission malfunction and/or damage.

Low Transmission Fluid Level

A low transmission fluid level could result in poor transmission engagement, slipping, malfunction and/or damage. This could also indicate a leak in one of the transmission seals or gaskets.

Adding Transmission Fluid

NOTE: The use of any transmission fluid other than what is recommended for this transmission will cause transmission damage.

If transmission fluid needs to be added, add transmission fluid in 0.25L (1/2 pt) increments through the transmission fluid level indicator tube. Do not overfill the transmission fluid.

Transmission Fluid Condition Check

Check the transmission fluid level.
Hold the transmission fluid level indicator over a white facial tissue and allow the transmission fluid to drip onto the facial tissue and examine the stain.
If evidence of solid material is found, the transmission fluid pan should be removed for further inspection.
If transmission fluid contamination or transmission failure is confirmed by the sediment in the bottom of the transmission fluid pan, repair the transmission and clean the transmission fluid cooler tubes and the transmission fluid cooler.
If the transmission is to be overhauled or if installing a new transmission, the transmission fluid cooler must be backflushed. Refer to Automatic Transmission 6F50 6F55 .