1996 Lincoln Town Car Transmission Fluid
Transmission Fluid Function
Transmission fluid is a vital component of your Lincoln Town Car’s transmission system. It plays a crucial role in:
- Lubricating moving parts within the transmission
- Transferring power from the engine to the wheels
- Cooling the transmission
- Protecting against wear and tear
Recommended Transmission Fluid
For the 1996 Lincoln Town Car, Ford recommends using Mercon V automatic transmission fluid. This fluid is specifically formulated to meet the performance requirements of the Town Car’s transmission system.
Changing Transmission Fluid
The recommended interval for changing transmission fluid in a 1996 Lincoln Town Car is every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first. However, this interval may need to be adjusted based on your driving conditions. If you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or tow heavy loads, you may need to change your transmission fluid more often.
Steps to Change Transmission Fluid:
- Gather your materials: new transmission fluid, filter, and gasket, drain pan, funnel, and rags.
- Warm up the transmission by driving for a few minutes.
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Locate the transmission pan and drain plug.
- Place the drain pan under the drain plug.
- Loosen the drain plug and allow the fluid to drain into the pan.
- Once the fluid has drained, remove the transmission pan.
- Replace the old filter and gasket with new ones.
- Clean the transmission pan and reinstall it.
- Tighten the drain plug.
- Add new transmission fluid through the dipstick tube.
- Check the transmission fluid level and add more fluid as needed.
Transmission Fluid Level Check
Checking the transmission fluid level is important to ensure that your transmission is properly lubricated. The fluid level should be checked when the engine is running and the transmission is in park.
Steps to Check Transmission Fluid Level:
- Start the engine and allow it to idle.
- Move the transmission shift lever through all gears.
- Return the shift lever to the park position.
- Pull out the transmission dipstick.
- Wipe the dipstick clean.
- Reinsert the dipstick and remove it again.
- Check the fluid level on the dipstick. The fluid level should be between the “HOT” and “COLD” marks.
Signs of Transmission Fluid Problems
If your 1996 Lincoln Town Car is experiencing transmission problems, it could be due to low or contaminated transmission fluid. Signs of transmission fluid problems include:
- Slipping gears
- Hard shifting
- Delayed engagement
- Leaking fluid
- Burning smell
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to have your transmission fluid checked and replaced as needed.
Conclusion
Transmission fluid is essential for the proper functioning of your 1996 Lincoln Town Car’s transmission. By following the recommended maintenance schedule and using the correct fluid, you can help extend the life of your transmission and keep your Town Car running smoothly.