Where is the power steering fluid on a Ford Territory?
The location depends on whether your Territory uses hydraulic power steering or electric power steering. In most models with hydraulic power steering, a dedicated reservoir is located in the engine bay near the power steering pump. If your Territory uses electric power steering (EPAS), there is no fluid reservoir to inspect or top up.
Hydraulic power steering: locating the reservoir
If your Territory has hydraulic power steering, use these guidelines to find the reservoir and identify the cap:
- Look for the power steering pump, a belt-driven unit at the front of the engine. The reservoir is usually mounted on or very near this pump.
- The reservoir is a small plastic bottle connected by hoses to the pump and typically translucent, so you can see the fluid level against min/max marks.
- The cap is often labeled Power Steering or shows a steering-wheel icon; the cap color and exact labeling can vary by year and trim.
- Because layouts can differ between model years, if you can’t locate it, consult the vehicle’s owner's manual or a Ford service sheet for your exact year and model.
Knowing where the reservoir sits helps with routine checks and top-ups. Always use the fluid type specified by Ford for hydraulic PS systems and avoid mixing fluids.
Electric power steering (EPAS): no reservoir
Some Territory models, particularly in later years or certain trims, use electric power steering. EPAS relies on an electric motor at the steering rack and does not involve hydraulic fluid or a reservoir. If you suspect a fault with EPAS, you’ll typically see steering assist warnings or error codes, and the fluid-check steps above won’t apply. In that case, refer to the owner's manual or have a dealer diagnose the system.
What to do if you need to top up or check for leaks
Before attempting any top-up, determine which system your Territory has. The following steps apply to hydraulic PS models. If you have EPAS, skip these steps and seek professional guidance.
- Ensure the engine is cool before opening the reservoir to avoid burns or fluid splash.
- Wipe around the cap to prevent dirt from entering the reservoir, then carefully remove the cap.
- Check the fluid level against the min and max marks on the reservoir; if it's low, add the correct type of power steering fluid until it reaches the proper level.
- After topping up, replace the cap securely and start the engine. Gently turn the steering wheel from lock to lock a few times to circulate the fluid and bleed air, then recheck the level with the engine off and cap tightened.
- Look for leaks around the reservoir, hoses, and steering pump. If you notice a leak, or the fluid color is degraded, have the system inspected by a qualified mechanic.
Using the wrong fluid or overfilling can cause steering issues or damage the system, so always follow Ford’s specifications or your owner's manual.
How to confirm which system your Territory has
If you’re unsure whether your Territory uses hydraulic PS or EPAS, try these quick checks:
- Inspect under the hood for a visible power steering reservoir (hydraulic) or an absence of a reservoir with a motor near the steering rack (EPAS).
- Consult the owner’s manual or service booklet for the exact PS system specification by year/model.
- Ask a Ford dealership or a trusted mechanic to verify the system based on your VIN.
Model-year variations exist, and Ford Territory production ended in 2016, so specifics may depend on the exact trim and year. When in doubt, professional confirmation ensures you use the correct fluid and maintenance procedure.
Summary
For most hydraulic-power Ford Territory models, the power steering fluid reservoir is a small plastic bottle located near the front of the engine bay, connected to the power steering pump, with a cap labeled Power Steering. In later Territory models that use electric power steering (EPAS), there is no reservoir to check or top up. Always verify your exact model and year against the owner's manual or a dealership resource, and use the fluid type specified for hydraulic systems if applicable. If you encounter leaks or steering problems, seek professional service promptly.
