Ford Territory Engine Problems

Being without a car for seven weeks is completely unacceptable, and their apparent reluctance to return calls makes it even worse. Talk to the ACCC and try to have them intervene on your behalf.

Replace the ignition lock.

We aren't aware of any websites that list the real world fuel economy of cars, and we'd be reluctant to give you any figures as they might not apply to your situation in any case. Working out the time required to recoup the extra cost of the diesel engine is difficult because it depends on the cost of both petrol and diesel at any given time and the relative reduction in fuel consumption from using diesel. Based on your annual mileage, and the fact that it is predominantly suburban, I would suggest petrol as the way to go. If you were doing a lot of highway driving, and a lot of towing, then diesel could be a better bet for you.

The idle speed is possibly too low. Take it to a mechanic and have it checked.

Check the fuses and the connections to the fuse box.

Yes, it does

Cars go into limp home mode for many and various reasons. It’s not everyday that the ECM has to be replaced, but it’s uncommon either. I wouldn’t be overly concerned about it doing it again. It’s possible that it could, but you’ll never be far from help from a Ford dealer if it does happen to fail again.

Make sure the coolant is topped up, check for coolant leaks, check the operation of the thermostat, and check the operation of the thermo fan.

The Territory should work fine, but ensure it's had the suspension updates. Diesel will be better for towing, especially fuel economy, although I generally advise petrol if you're doing less than 30,000km a year.

I am guessing it is a diesel. The diesel is known to blow at quite low kilometres and with no warning. Being just five years old, and having done so few kilometres I would approach Ford for help with the cost of repairs as a gesture of goodwill. They could argue that it is out of warranty, and that you bought it second hand, but I think you could argue that it is not reasonable to have an engine fail in these circumstances.