Ford 1996 Contour Manual page 227

NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven until some fluid
has been added if the fluid level is below the bottom
dimple 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 dimple 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.
Automatic transaxle fluid dipstick
230