There appears to be a widespread problem with fuel tank warpage on 2000 Mercury Cougar. The tank is molded plastic and can distort. This distortion occurs without warning or noticeable incident. Once distorted, the car will suddenly fail to be able to access the last quarter tank of fuel and will suddenly lose power or stall. The dealer from whom I purchased the car diagnosed the problem and replaced the tank and fuel sender; however, subsequent discussions on internet groups related to the car or maker reveal that there are a significant number of people experiencing the same symptoms whose local dealers are either ignorant of the problem or unwilling to fix the problem at the factory's expense.

- Selden, NY, USA