Ford 1996 Taurus Manual page 294

Automatic overdrive transaxle fluid dipstick
NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven until
some fluid has been added if the fluid
level is below the bottom hole on the
dipstick and the outside temperature is
above 50˚F (10˚C). Add only enough
fluid to bring the level above the
bottom hole.
If the vehicle has not been driven and the fluid
level is above the bottom hole on the dipstick,
do not add fluid. Recheck the fluid level after
your vehicle has reached normal operating
temperature.
Normal operating temperature is reached after
driving approximately 20 miles (30 km). The
fluid level should be within the crosshatched
area on the dipstick.
NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an
extended period at high speeds, driven
in city traffic during hot weather, or
has been pulling a trailer, the vehicle
should be turned off for about 30
minutes to allow the fluid to cool
before checking.
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