2009 Lincoln Town Car Owner's Manual - Page 232

If the power steering fluid is low, do not drive your vehicle for a long period of time before adding fluid. This can damage the power steering pump. Automatic Transmission Fluid Under normal circumstances, you do not need to check the fluid level of the transmission, since your vehicle does not use up transmission fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule booklet for replacement intervals. However, if the transmission is not working properly - for instance, the transmission may slip or shift slowly, or you may notice some sign of fluid leakage - the fluid level should be checked. It is preferable to check the transmission fluid level at normal operating temperature 150˚F-170˚F (66˚C-77˚C), after approximately 20 miles (30 km) of driving. However, if necessary, you can check the fluid level without having to drive 20 miles (30 km) to obtain a normal operating temperature if outside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C). NOTE: If the vehicle has been operated for an extended period at high speeds or in city traffic during hot weather, or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be turned off for about 30 minutes to allow the fluid to cool before checking. Checking the Automatic Transmission Fluid With the vehicle on a level surface and the brake fully applied, start the engine and move the gear shift selector through all of the gears allowing sufficient time for each position to engage. Securely latch the gear shift selector in the P (Park) position. Fully set the parking brake and leave the engine running. NOTE: Your vehicle should not be driven if the fluid level is below the bottom hole on the dipstick and outside temperatures are above 50˚F (10˚C). Wipe off the dipstick cap and pull the dipstick out. Wipe the indicator end clean. Put the dipstick back into the filler tube and make sure it is fully seated. 230