Is it possible that the transmission fluid level needs to be checked when the vehicle is shut off? I have check while running ion park and the entiore dipstick is covered, up to the rubber plug. However, when the engine is off (engine hot) there is no fluid on the dip stick. The Haynes manual does not show the vehicle having a dipstick, but a plug to remove and fill. Thanks for any feedback.

The automatics have a dipstick and the manuals don't
You are supposed to check the tranny fluid with the engine shut off and warn if it is not showing on the dipstick you should add fluid, there may possibly be a leak if there is no fluid showing on the stick you should get that checked.
Manual trannys have a plug in the side just beside the axle that you remove, if the fluid is at the hole and a little runs out it is full, if none comes out, put your finger in the hole and try to feel for tranny fluid.