The positive crankcase ventilation valve, or PCV valve, is what recirculates exhaust gases from the crankcase back into your Ford Contour's engine to be burned more thoroughly. This component is designed to help make the engine more efficient and reduce carbon emissions. However, over time, these valves tend to stick. If this is happening, you could experience engine idle problems and hesitation issues throughout the RMP range of your Contour. If you suspect your valve is malfunctioning, you'll need to check and replace the valve.
Start the Contour's engine and wait until it reaches normal operating temperature.
Locate the PCV valve on the Ford Contour. In most model years it is behind the heat shield covering the manifold on the driver's side of the vehicle towards the front of the car. Remove the heat shield by removing the bolts that hold the heat shield in place. Pull the heat shield off and look for a component that looks like a small rubber plug stuck into the side of the engine block with a hose connected to the end of it. This is the PCV valve.
Pinch the PCV hose with a pair of pliers very gently. This will squeeze off the gas flowing through the hose without damaging it.
Check to see if your Contour's PCV valve begins to make an audible "clicking" sound. This clicking sound means that it is working properly. If it doesn't click, then the valve needs to be replaced.
Pull the connecting hose off the end of the PCV valve with a pair of pliers. There is nothing holding it in place other than friction. Use a rag to protect the hose from being damaged. Make sure the engine is off when replacing the valve.
Note the orientation of the PCV valve on your Contour's engine block. You will need to reinsert it in the same orientation.
Clamp onto the end of the PCV valve with the pliers and pull it out of the engine block. The Contour's PCV valve has a tendency to become logged in the block. However, a gentle twisting motion of the valve should break the rubber free from the block so that you can pull the valve out.
Install the new valve. Noting the orientation of the old valve you removed, reinstall the PCV valve by pushing it straight into the engine block. Your PCV valve may have different orientations depending on the year of your Contour. If you have trouble installing the valve, you may need to rotate the valve gently from side to side.
Reattach the PCV hose and make sure that it is secure on the valve. To make sure it is secure, gently pull on the valve. It should not come off. Alternatively, you can pinch the hose with the engine running at normal operating temperature. If the PCV valve clicks with the hose pinched and stops with the hose unclamped, then the valve hose is secure.
