Final drive oil level check (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)

1 Check the final drive oil level as follows.

2 Position the vehicle over a pit, or raise it at front and rear on ramps or axle stands. The vehicle must be level.

3 Wipe clean around the final drive filler/level plug (see illustrations)

27.3a Final drive unit filler plug location (arrowed) - Saloon, Hatchback and
27.3a Final drive unit filler plug location (arrowed) - Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models

27.3b Rear axle filler plug location - P100 models
27.3b Rear axle filler plug location - P100 models

and unscrew the
plug. Using a piece of bent wire as a dipstick, check that the oil is no more than 10 mm (0.4 in) below the plug hole.

4 If topping-up is necessary, use clean gear oil of the specified type. Do not overfill.

Frequent need for topping-up can only be due to leaks, which should be rectified.

5 When the level is correct, refit the filler/level plug and tighten it to the specified torque loading.

6 There is no requirement for periodic oil changing, and no drain plug is provided.

Automatic transmission selector linkage lubrication (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)

Lubricate the transmission selector and kickdown linkages with engine oil or aerosol lubricant.

    See also:

    Boot lid (Saloon models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Open the boot lid, and place protective covers (old rags or cardboard) beneath the corners of the lid, and over the rear wings to prevent damage to the paintwork. 2 Where applicable, di ...

    Instrument panel components - removal and refitting
    Panel illumination and warning lamp bulbs Removal 1 Remove the instrument panel as described in Section 9. 2 Turn the bulbholders anti-clockwise and remove them from the rear of the instrument ...

    Identifying components in the engine compartment
    2.0L DOHC Zetec engine Transmission fluid dipstick (automatic transaxle) Battery Air filter assembly Engine oil filler cap Engine oil dipstick Power steering fluid reservoir Engine ...