2011 ford territory problems Page 4

The 2011 Ford Territory can be a comfy family bus, but it’s not shy about telling you where the wear and tear lives.

Common gremlins include:

• Front suspension wear: lower control arm bushes/ball joints and sway-bar links clunking over bumps
• Rear driveline: torn rear differential mount bush and tailshaft centre bearing causing thuds and shudder
• Transmission neglect: the 6-speed auto benefits from regular fluid/services; shudder or flare says it’s overdue
• Steering/brakes: power-steering hose leaks or pump whine, and brake shudder from cooked discs
• Electrical/body: door lock actuators, window regulators, tired tailgate struts and corrosion around the rear garnish
• Diesel-specific: EGR/intake soot build-up and split intercooler/turbo hoses; look for limp mode or oily joins

On a test drive, listen for clunks, feel for driveline vibration on light throttle, and demand proof of recent transmission servicing and other big-ticket maintenance.

Get a pre-purchase inspection and budget for a suspension refresh if it’s on original bits—your sanity (and the kids’ snacks) will thank you.