How to Check the Transmission Fluid on a 1997 Sabel

The 1997 Sabel is a midsize vehicle produced by Mercury. The fluids, including the transmission fluid, should be checked every one to two weeks to verify that the engine is running at the proper levels. Checking the transmission fluid and keeping the correct levels keeps the gears shifting smoothly and ensure optimized engine performance. If the levels are low, more fluid needs to be added because running the vehicle in this condition can cause costly engine damage. Checking the transmission fluid on a 1997 Sabel requires only about 15 minutes of work.

• 1

  Park the car on a level surface and wait until it cools down. If it has been driven recently, wait at least 30 minutes before checking the fluid levels. Liquid expands with heat which can result in improper readings.

• 2

  Pull the engine hood-release lever under the steering panel. Push the hood of the car up until it's open all the way. Lift up the tension bar and prop up the hood to keep it in place.

• 3

  Locate the transmission dipstick behind the battery of the vehicle. It is a small, yellow plastic piece with a ring on top. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it off the metal piece with a rag. Put the dipstick back in the tube and push it down all the way. Remove it and hold it to the light to read the fluid level. The fluid should read between the "MIN" and "MAX" lines on the stick.

• 4

  Replace transmission fluid if it is less than halfway between the MIN and MAX line. To refill the transmission place a funnel into the tube the dipstick goes into. Pour the transmission fluid in a half quart at a time. Run the engine for 5 minutes, let it cool down and then repeat Steps 1 through 3 to check the new level.