Ford Territory 2014 Problems

If everything is working properly, it’s less likely to be a stuck or fused relay as that would affect the operation of that circuit. In any case most relay-controlled circuits would probably be disconnected from the power source (the battery) when the car was not being used. Which, of course, brings the ignition switch into play as a suspect, on the basis that it might not be powering the car down fully when switched off.

Typically, problems like this are caused by boot lights or courtesy lights somewhere on the car staying on. In the Territory, these functions are controlled locally by micro-switches (on doors and tailgates etc) and in an overall sense by the body computer. Body computers on this generation of Ford have been known to fail, often with consequences for all sorts of functions including the central locking and possibly the courtesy lighting. Check the car on a dark night to see if there are any lights stuck on.

A security system/alarm is another great source of battery drain. Does the car have an aftermarket alarm? Even if it has just the factory security system, that would be worth checking as a cause for the battery drain. Is the car’s stereo powering down fully when you switch the ignition off? This can also be a cause of flat batteries. Again, the body computer might be the culprit.

It would be a good idea to fit a transmission cooler, particularly if the caravan is a weighty one and the Territory will be working hard.

If it's not the windscreen it could be getting in past a seal, or through the heater. You could try running a hose on the plenum area in front of the windscreen and try to identify the sources of the leak.

The three cars you name all have merit, none has any major issue to be concerned about and all fit your needs, but you will have to shop around to find them within your age and budget limits.

You’re on pretty safe ground with the diesel Territory, as long as it is in good condition, and has been regularly serviced as per Ford’s recommendation.

It could be the lock-up convertor locking and unlocking if you are driving at the point of lock-up. Try changing your speed up or down and see if that affects it.

Depending on what you want from them either one would be a good buy. The Falcon is a reliable good car with few foibles; the Territory is also a good car if you don’t buy the early model. If you can afford it the diesel Territory would be the best choice.

The Territory was good at first but has been completely overtaken by a range of rivals. Your decision to buy Australian is great but you're in a very small minority and the Territory is no longer a CarsGuide choice for quality or long-term ownership.