Transmission Fluid Level Check

Transmission Fluid Level Check

Transmission Hot-Operating Temperature

The automatic transmission should be checked at an operating temperature of 66°-77°C (150°-170°F), dipstick is hot to touch. The operating temperature may be obtained by driving 24-32 km (15-20 miles) of city type driving with the outside temperature above 10°C (50°F).

Dipstick Reading-Fluid Level at Operating Temperature

Fluid Level on Dipstick should read between ADD and DON'T ADD marks and/or between the arrows.

AOD and C5 fluid level on the dipstick should be in the cross hatched area.

Transmission Cold-Room Temperature

If the transmission is not at an operating temperature of 66°C-77°-C (150°F to 170°F) and it becomes necessary to check the fluid level (such as pre-delivery) the fluid may be checked at room temperature 21°C-35°C (70°F to 95°F) giving the dipstick a cool feeling.
Dipstick Reading-Fluid Level at Room Temperature
Fluid Level on the Dipstick should read between middle and top holes.

Checking Procedure

1. With transmission in Park, engine at curb idle rpm, toot brakes applied and vehicle on level surface, move the transmission selector lever through each range. Allow time in each range to engage transmission, return to Park, and apply parking brake fully. Do not turn off the engine during the fluid level check.
2. Clean all dirt from the transmission fluid dipstick cap, before removing the dipstick from the filler tube.
3. Pull the dipstick out of the tube, wipe it clean, and push all the way back into the tube. Be sure it is fully seated.
4. Pull the dipstick out of the tube again and check the fluid level.

IMPORTANT:The fluid level indication on the dipstick will be different at operating temperature (transmission hot) and room temperature (transmission cold).

For the correct fluid level reading on the dipstick, follow the appropriate instructions stated previously for transmission hot and transmission cold check.

Before adding fluid, be sure that the correct type will be used. If in doubt, check the Vehicle Certification Label affixed to the left front door lock face panel or door pillar for the Transmission Code. For C6 Automatic Transmission (code K and G), the Automatic Overdrive Transmission (code T), and the C5 Automatic Transmission (code W) use Type H fluid or fluid that meets Ford Specification ESP-M2C1 66-H or equivalent.

CAUTION: Use of a fluid other than specified could result in transmission malfunction and/or failure.

If necessary, add enough fluid through the filler tube to raise the level to the correct position. Do not overfill the transmission.

Overfill can cause the fluid to foam and spill Out through the transmission vent with resultant transmission malfunction.

Underfill can result in transmission loss of engagement or slipping. This condition is most evident in cold weather or when the vehicle is parked or being driven on a hill.

5. Install the dipstick, making sure it is fully seated in the tube.
Refer to Transmission Fluid specifications. Specifications