Automatic Transaxle Fluid - Ford 1996 Contour Manual

Remove tire chains at the first opportunity after using them
on snow and ice. Do not use the chains on dry roads.
Cleaning the Wheels
Wash the wheels with the same detergent you use to wash your
vehicle's body. Do not use acid-based wheel cleaners, steel wool,
abrasives, fuel, or strong detergents. These substances will
damage protective coatings. Use tar and road oil remover to
remove grease and tar.
NOTE: Before going to a car wash, find out if the brushes are
abrasive.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid

Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid
level of the transaxle, since your vehicle does not use up
transaxle fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule and Record
booklet for replacement intervals. However, if the transaxle is
not working properly — for instance, the transaxle may slip or
shift slowly, or you may notice some sign of fluid leakage —
the fluid level should be checked.
Checking the Automatic Transaxle Fluid
With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake fully applied,
start the engine and move the gear shift selector through all of
the gears allowing sufficient time for each position to engage.
Securely latch the gear shift selector in the P (Park) position.
Fully set the parking brake and leave the engine running.
Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out. Wipe the
indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and
make sure it is fully seated. Pull the dipstick out and read the
fluid level.
Servicing Your Contour
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