Parts for your 2011 Ford Territory-Driveshafts

2011 Ford Territory driveshafts — what they do and how to look after them

Yes, driveshafts are absolutely used on the 2011 Ford Territory. Technical references including the Ford Territory SZ Workshop Manual (Driveline/Axle sections), Ford Global Service Information, and the Ford AP Microcat parts catalogue list a propeller shaft (tailshaft) between the transmission and rear differential on rear‑wheel drive models, and additional front CV driveshafts plus a rear prop shaft on AWD variants. Ford’s 2011 model information also specifies both RWD and AWD drivelines, which by design require driveshafts to get torque to the wheels.

On a Territory, the driveshafts’ job is simple but critical: take engine power from the gearbox to the diffs and then to the wheels. RWD models run a tailshaft with universal joints (and a centre bearing), while AWD models add front CV half‑shafts and a transfer case/Power Transfer Unit to feed the front wheels. When the shafts are healthy, the Territory feels smooth on take‑off and steady at highway speeds, when they’re tired, vibrations and clunks creep in.

As part of servicing a 2011 Ford Territory, it’s smart to give the driveshafts a once‑over every 10,000–15,000 km or at each scheduled service:

• Check CV boots for splits and grease fling, replace boots early to save the joint.
• Spin and wiggle the joints for free play or notchiness, listen for clicks on full lock (CV) and clunks on take‑off (uni joints/tailshaft).
• Inspect the tailshaft centre bearing for sagging rubber or rumble — a common Territory wear point.
• Look for fresh witness marks at flanges and re‑torque any loose hardware, check for impact damage from off‑road use.
• Road test for shudder under load or vibration at certain speeds, which can point to worn joints or an out‑of‑balance shaft.

When replacement is due, quality matters. For AWD models, consider replacing CV shafts in pairs if they’ve done big kilometres. Use new flange bolts/nuts where specified, stake or replace hub nuts on front shafts, and keep the shaft orientation marks so balance isn’t upset. After fitting, a careful road test under varying loads helps confirm any vibration has been sorted. Drivers who tow, carry heavy loads, or venture onto corrugations should shorten inspection intervals — preventative checks are far cheaper than dealing with a failed joint far from home.

Popular questions about 2011 Ford Territory driveshafts

How do you know a Territory driveshaft or CV is failing?
Tell‑tales include a clicking noise on full lock (front CV), a thump or clunk on take‑off (tailshaft uni joint or diff bush), and vibration that comes in at certain speeds or under load. Grease sprayed around a wheel or underbody often means a torn CV boot. On the tailshaft, a droning or rumble that changes with speed can point to a tired centre bearing.

Do all 2011 Territory models use the same driveshafts?
No. RWD models use a rear tailshaft only, while AWD variants add left and right front CV shafts and a different prop shaft arrangement to suit the transfer case/PTU. Engine and transmission combos can also change shaft lengths, spline counts, and flange patterns, so parts should be matched by VIN.

Can the tailshaft centre bearing be replaced on its own?
Yes, the centre bearing can be replaced separately and is a common repair on Territories. It’s best done with the shaft removed, the bearing pressed on correctly, and the assembly rebalanced if required to avoid new vibrations.