Ford Territory 2006 Problems

Ford's SUV plans had one difference to most other companies, and it was a bold one at that – they decided to build a two-wheel drive version as well as the traditional four-wheel drive wagon.They recognised that many SUV buyers really just wanted a high-riding, roomy station wagon for the perceived benefits of being able to see the road better, and they weren't interested in going off the black top.Apart from the drive train, the Territory didn't have much in common with the Falcon. It was fundamentally a new car from the ground up.It rolled on a longer wheelbase than the Falcon, but was shorter in length and much taller. Its shape was neat and clean, its lines uncluttered and purposeful. Overall, it fitted the new genre perfectly.Inside, it was roomy with comfortable seating for five in standard form, but up to seven adults with the optional third row, and plenty of space for everything a family needs to take with them when venturing out in the big, wide world.Mechanically, the Territory was very similar to the BA Falcon. It came with the same 182kW, 4.0-litre, double-overhead camshaft six-cylinder engine for power, the same four-speed automatic transmission with sequential sports shift, and the choice of either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.While it rode higher than the Falcon, the suspension was similar – the Territory boasting independent front suspension with the Falcon's control blade independent rear.Brakes were disc front and rear with anti-skid electronics, traction control and grade control for off-road safety.Few will have been driven off-road, certainly the two-wheel-drive cars will have stuck to the black top, but it's worth checking underneath four-wheel drives for any damage that might have been sustained by driving off-road. When CarsGuide tested one shortly after its release, the fuel tank guard was damaged from grounding in a rut on a bush track, and a section of the rear bumper was dislodged when caught on the road while attempting a steep climb.There's plenty of choice on the market so it's well worth being selective. Be sure to look for damage to trim and interior fittings caused by kids bored during long journeys.Being favoured for family transport, also keep an eye peeled for dings and dents from shopping centre parking.Some owners are concerned about the fuel consumption and looking to convert to dual-fuel. Ford doesn't currently offer a dual-fuel system, but there are after-market systems available to convert the Territory to dual-fuel to save on running costs. The concern with high-riding cars is that the higher centre of gravity means sloppier handling, but the Territory rides and handles quite well with no obvious problems attributable to the higher ride.Four-wheel disc brakes with anti-skid and electronic brake force distribution, power steering and independent suspension combine for an impressive primary safety package for crash avoidance.All models feature dual front airbags. But with side-curtain airbags, the TS and Ghia offer superior secondary crash protection.

Q: Who does this recall affect?A: Owners of all non-turbo Ford Territory vehicles built between February 1 2004 and December 31 2008Q Why did Ford make the recall?A: Following Carsguide reader letters to Ask Smithy guru Graham Smith complaining about brake failures in Territory and Falcons Carsguide contacted Ford. Ford began an investigation and has now decided to recall the Territory.Q: What if I own a Falcon?A: While they are not part of the recall Graham Smith and Ford have advised concerned owners of 2003-onwards Falcons to contact your dealer and have your car checked overQ: What should I do if I own a Territory?A: Contact your nearest authorised Ford dealer to make arrangements to have your vehicle rectified. The front brake hoses will be replaced free of charge by Ford. Ford Australia will be contacting customers via mail and advertising in daily newspapers in order to reach all customers.Q: What is wrong with the cars?A: Ford says it has determined that under certain conditions it is possible for the vehicle to develop a front brake fluid leak, which can result in reduced braking effectiveness from the front brakes. It says the rear braking system will still stop the car. And it says that a warning light will appear on the instrument cluster to alert the driver that the vehicle's braking system requires attention.Q: Will I lose all braking control?A: No, Ford says that under Australian Design Rules the front and rear brakes are independently controlled. So if one fails the other will stop the car.Q How many cars are affected?The recall affects 83,534 Territorys in Australia, 7739 in New Zealand, 3612 in South Africa and about 60 in Thailand and Brunei.Related stories: Ford Territory recall - carsguide.com.auFirst look: 2009 Ford TerritoryToyota Kluger Vs Ford Territory GOT A PROBLEM WITH YOUR CAR? - Carsguide Car Advice

The recall affects 83,534 Territorys in Australia, 7739 in New Zealand, 3612 in South Africa and about 60 in Thailand and Brunei.Details of the defect were uncovered by Carsguide after more than 15 customers reported brake failures to our Ask Smithy guru, Graham Smith.Ask Smithy, Daily Telegraph, March 27, 2009.Carsguide answers your questions about the Ford Territory recallThe recall affects the bulk of Territorys on the road, built between February 1 2004 and December 31, 2008.Territory Turbo, Territory Ghia Turbo and the FPV F6X are not included in the recall.Ford Australia spokeswoman, Sinead McAlary, said the problem had affected less than 2 per cent of vehicles but the company was recalling most Territorys to replace the hosesMcAlary said the issue was isolated to the Territory and did not affect Falcon models.The problem relates to the front brake hose, which can wear through, leading to leaking brake fluid that could render the brakes almost useless.Ford is fitting all Territorys with replacement hoses that are stronger and longer, McAlary said.An official Ford statement said that the the rear braking system will still bring the vehicle to a halt within Australian Design Rule requirements. If the vehicle continues to be operated in this condition, a warning light will appear on the instrument cluster to alert the driver that the vehicle's braking system requires attention, the statement said.McAlary said that a Ford investigation had shown that a combination of high mileage on the vehicles, along with frequent cornering at full steering lock, could lead to a problem with the brakes.She said any customers with concerns are advised to contact their nearest Ford Dealer to make arrangements to have their vehicle rectified.The front brake hoses will be replaced free of charge.Related stories:First look: 2009 Ford TerritoryToyota Kluger Vs Ford TerritoryGOT A PROBLEM WITH YOUR CAR? - Ask 'The Guide'