Gas Tank Strap Problems of Mercury Cougar

During periodic maintenance the dealer discovered the passenger side fuel tank strap had corroded and broke. Likely cause was the salt and chemicals applied to the roads during the winter. The driver side strap was intact but would likely fail in the future. I was informed the fuel tank straps were special order since they do not normally fail. Returned the next day to have both straps replaced. Fortunately the issue was discovered before the tank separated from the vehicle. This is the same issue with Ford trucks of the same vintage.

See all problems of the 2000 Mercury Cougar 🔎.

The contact owns a 2001 Mercury Cougar. The contact stated that after having routine maintenance performed, the mechanic advised that the fuel tank and straps were rusted and corroded. The dealer was notified who stated there were no recalls for the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure and the vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 200,000.

See all problems of the 2001 Mercury Cougar 🔎.

The contact owns a 2001 Mercury Cougar. The contact stated that while the vehicle was being inspected by a local mechanic for a fuel odor, the mechanic found that the fuel tank and both fuel straps were corroded. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 99,000.