Transmission Fluid Level Check

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

NOTE: 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.

NOTE: 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.

NOTE: Transmission fluid may be checked in the cold temperature range if the ambient temperature is between 10°-32°C (50°-90°F). Checking the transmission fluid level using the cold range will indicate that the vehicle has sufficient transmission fluid to be driven. Adding transmission fluid using the cold range may result in an overflow condition when the vehicle reaches normal operating temperature. Transmission fluid level must be checked while in the normal operating range of 66°-77°C (150°-170°F) to make sure that the transmission fluid level is accurately checked and transmission fluid level adjusted correctly.

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 leaking, the transmission fluid level should be checked.

Drive the vehicle 32 km (20 mi) or until the vehicle reaches normal operating temperature.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
With the parking brake applied and your foot on the brake pedal, start the engine and move the selector lever through all the gear ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
Place the selector lever in PARK and leave the engine running.
Remove the transmission fluid level indicator and wipe it clean with a lint free cloth.
Install the transmission fluid level indicator until it is fully seated into the transmission fluid filler tube.
Remove the transmission fluid level indicator and inspect the transmission fluid level. The transmission fluid level should be in the designated area for normal and room temperature.

Fig 1: Blade Design Transmission Fluid Level Indicator Used on Some Applications

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig 2: Bullet Design Transmission Fluid Level Indicator Used on Some Applications

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Item	Description
1	Cold Temperature Range
2	Normal Operating Temperature Range
3	DO NOT DRIVE IF BELOW THIS LEVEL AND OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS ABOVE 10°C (50°F) (Under Fill). Recheck transmission fluid level at normal operating temperature and adjust as required.
4	DO NOT DRIVE LEVEL (Overfill). Remove excess transmission fluid. Recheck transmission fluid level at normal operating temperature and adjust as required.