I just replaced a basement door latch and a door latch on my 2008 3011rls Cougar and of the eleven screws that mounted the two parts only two screws (one in each one) on hit something solid...:S
I'll bet that you've been walking on those steps, haven't you ? Didn't they tell you on your walk thru that you are supposed to plop your butt on the bedroom floor and swing your feet around. Those steps are for shoe storage only. :)