Ford Territory Problems

It’s hard for mechanics if they can’t observe the problem themselves. If it doesn’t make the noise when in their presence they really are in the dark in trying to find the cause. It could be in the front-end, perhaps bushes.

The early Territory was subject to a few issues that demand care when buying one now. The main one was the front suspension lower ball joints, which wear out relatively quickly and typically require replacement every 100,000 km or even less. Check the front suspension. The diff bushes are also a problem area; they also chop out quite quickly, so check those when you’re under the car. The automatic transmission can also be a source of trouble, and it’s an expensive item to replace, so pay close attention to the operation, gear changing etc., of the auto.

750 kg with a trailer without brakes, or 2300 kg with a trailer that has brakes.

Without being able to see the extent of the wear and tear I can’t say, and there are so many things that can affect the wear on trim. In my view you won’t get anywhere with Ford on this issue.

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.

Even though Ford’s warranty has expired the car is still covered by the basic statutory warranty under our consumer law. You need to negotiate with Ford to get them to cover the cost of the repair. You should also check with your insurer to see if this is covered by the extended warranty.

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The transmission probably needs servicing at the least, perhaps even rebuilding. Have a mechanic check it.

It was a common problem with that model, and Ford was replacing ball joints when the cars were new or relatively new. Contact Ford’s customer service and lodge a claim to have the repairs done at its expense. Because the car is so old, and has done a lot of kilometres, and you’re not using a Ford dealer for service I would be inclined to think your claim would probably be rejected.

Ford has a responsibility to repair any faults found in their cars, so you do have a case for some assistance in locating the cause of the downshifting problem and fixing it to your satisfaction.

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.