Parts for your 2012 Ford Territory-Universal joints

2012 Ford Territory universal joints: what they do and how to look after them

Yes, universal joints are used on the 2012 Ford Territory (SZ series). Technical documentation confirms fitment on the rear propeller shaft: Ford Territory SZ Workshop Manual, Section 205-01 Driveline/Propeller Shaft describes cross-and-bearing (universal) joints on the rear driveshaft, the AWD variants also have a separate front propeller shaft that uses constant-velocity joints. This is backed by Australasian driveline catalogues from Dana/Spicer listing U-joint service kits for Ford Territory SX/SY/SZ (2004–2016), and local parts catalogues that specify replacement universal joints for the rear tailshaft on SZ models.

On a 2012 Territory, the universal joints let the rear tailshaft transfer torque while the suspension and driveline work through angles. They’re the little cross-and-bearing joints that cope with movement without binding, keeping things smooth under load. RWD and AWD models both use U-joints on the rear prop shaft (with a centre bearing), AWD adds a front prop shaft that uses CVs rather than U-joints.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the Territory’s universal joints every 10,000–15,000 km. Many factory-fitted units are sealed-for-life, so there’s no greasing point, when they wear, they’re replaced. Aftermarket options are often greaseable if you’d prefer periodic lubrication.

• Common signs they’re tired: a clunk on take-off or shifting from reverse to drive, a rhythmic vibration between about 60–90 km/h, a chirp or squeak at low speed that changes with road speed, rust-coloured dust around the bearing caps, or detectable free play.
• When replacing: mark the tailshaft orientation before removal, keep the yokes in phase, and torque the flange bolts to spec. Press the old caps out carefully to avoid brinelling the needles, seat the circlips correctly, and check the centre bearing while you’re there.
• After fitment: check for balance issues and take it for a road test. If a vibration remains, look at engine/gearbox mounts, pinion angle, and the centre bearing.

Quality matters here. Cheap joints can introduce NVH and won’t last. A good greaseable aftermarket kit suits vehicles that see towing or outback kilometres, while an OE-style sealed joint is fine for typical suburban duty. Either way, a Territory with tight, smooth U-joints will feel more refined and kinder to diffs, bearings and tyres.

Popular questions about 2012 Ford Territory universal joints

Do all 2012 Territory models have universal joints?
All SZ Territory models use universal joints on the rear propeller shaft. AWD versions also have a front propeller shaft that uses CV joints instead of U-joints. So if it’s the rear tailshaft you’re looking at, yes—there are universal joints fitted.

How long do the Territory’s universal joints typically last?
It varies with use. A Territory that tows or sees lots of corrugations may need joints around 120,000–180,000 km, while gentle urban use can go much further. Inspect them at each service for play, noise or dried seals, and replace at the first signs of wear to prevent tailshaft or flange damage.

Should universal joints be replaced in pairs?
It’s common practice to replace both joints on the rear tailshaft at the same time. If one’s worn, the other isn’t far behind, and doing them together saves labour and reduces the chance of chasing lingering vibrations later.