Michael
email
Q
I'VE had yet more brake woes with my Ford Territory. This time the left rear hose has failed near the swage end, chassis side, which was similar to the right front hose failure, but at the caliper end. The hose has split in the outer sheath and the front hose let go at about 60,000km. Now the rear has gone at about 71,000km. The Ford Customer Relations Centre is not interested, nor supporting me with the repair. They say it's a wear-and-tear item and the car is out of warranty. My dealer is trying to help, but doesn't hope for much success either. I am not pleased with Ford's attitude. I suspect there is a material-quality problem. I had both my rear brake hoses replaced, because I didn't have the confidence the right rear hose would not let go if I hadn't changed it. The car has never been off-road.
Graham Smith
Ask Smithy
AWHEN we met Ford president Marin Burela we stressed the concern we and many Ford owners have about the company's communication with owners. He conceded it was inconsistent and acknowledged it needed to be good because it was the main interface between the company and the people who bought its cars. We know Burela reads Carsguide, so we are confident he will read your letter. Perhaps that will trigger some action. I don't believe there should be any question about your claim. A failed brake hose is a safety issue, nothing to do with wear and tear.
