Parts for your 2016 Ford Territory-Strut mounts

Maintaining and Replacing the Strut Mounts on Your 2016 Ford Territory

The 2016 Ford Territory features strut mounts as an integral part of its suspension system. Strut mounts serve the crucial role of connecting your vehicle's suspension strut to the body. They also help in isolating road noise and vibration, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Over time, these components can wear out, leading to several potential issues. If you're considering either a replacement or regular checks as part of your vehicle's maintenance, here's what you need to know.

Firstly, strut mounts are a pivotal component of your vehicle's handling dynamics and overall comfort. Worn-out strut mounts can not only lead to unpleasant noises and a shaky ride but can also affect steering precision and lead to uneven tyre wear. Recognising the signs of worn-out mounts early can prevent these inconveniences and keep your ride smooth and dependable.

1. Unfamiliar Noises: A prominent symptom of worn-out strut mounts is the presence of clunking or creaking noises, especially when going over bumps or during sharp turns. These noises indicate that the rubber component of the mount is degrading, allowing metal components to contact each other.
2. Steering Issues: If you feel excess vibration in the steering wheel or notice difficult steering, it's time to check the strut mounts. This challenge arises due to the mount's role in holding the suspension components together and ensuring a stable alignment.
3. Visible Wear or Damage: When inspecting your vehicle, any visible dents, cracks, or other signs of wear and tear on the strut mounts should be a clear indicator that they might need replacement.

Routine checks and timely replacement of strut mounts are crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of your suspension system. It's advisable to have them inspected at regular intervals, potentially every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres, or whenever you have your vehicle's suspension serviced. Regular inspections can prevent extensive damage and ensure a comfortable and smooth ride.

If you're considering replacing the strut mounts on your 2016 Ford Territory, it may be best to involve a professional mechanic. The task involves disconnecting the strut assembly from the vehicle and requires specific tools and experience to ensure safety and accuracy. A workshop will have the necessary equipment to compress the suspension springs safely and reinstall the components with the correct alignment and torque specifications.

However, if you are an experienced DIY-er with all the right tools, ensure your workspace is safe, your vehicle is stable, and you're following the exact procedures laid out in a reliable manual or guide specific to your vehicle model. Here are some general steps you might follow:

• Make sure the vehicle is securely lifted using a jack and supported with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel to access the strut assembly.
• Carefully disconnect the parts attaching the strut to the vehicle, including any brake lines or wiring attached to the strut.
• Once the strut is free, use a spring compressor to safely compress the strut spring and disassemble the mount.
• Replace the old strut mount with a new one, ensuring it is properly aligned.
• Reassemble everything in the reverse order, making sure all bolts and nuts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications.

Improvements in the ride quality will be immediately noticeable with new strut mounts. The stability and handling precision of your Ford Territory will be restored, offering an enjoyable and responsive driving experience once again.

Whether you're tackling your vehicle's maintenance yourself or leaving it in the trusted hands of professionals, ensuring that the strut mounts of your 2016 Ford Territory are in top shape is a sound investment in the longevity and performance of your vehicle. A smooth ride and effortless control will make every journey more enjoyable.