2005 ford territory problems Page 4

The 2005 Ford Territory is a proper Aussie workhorse, but time and kilometres haven’t exactly been gentle. If you’re shopping one, expect a few gremlins that are more persistent than a seagull at the servo.

• Rear differential bushes wear out, causing thumps on take-off/braking and a shudder under load.
• Front lower control arm bushes/ball joints get tired, leading to clunks and uneven tyre wear.
• Brake shudder from soft rotors; many owners end up doing pads/rotors more often than they’d like.
• AWD models: transfer case/PTU bearings and front propshaft CV couplings can fail, causing vibration or binding.
• Ignition coil packs misfire, giving rough idle and fuel use that’ll make your wallet wince.
• Door lock actuators and window regulators can play up; power steering pumps/hoses sometimes leak and whine.
• Tailgate glass/hinge and struts can loosen or rattle; check for water leaks around the rear.

Most of this is fixable and parts are plentiful, but a thorough test drive and underbody inspection are non-negotiable. Budget for suspension refresh and brakes if there’s no proof they’ve been done. Get a pre-purchase inspection and you’ll know whether you’re buying a bargain or a project.