The MAF is on the top of the air intake assembly has a plug going into it. Also, it should be in a metal housing. It has some security type screws which require a special keyed like wrench to remove it. I wouldn't remove it. The sensor with the glass LED looking thing is not the MAF. I was able to remove the plug and then remove loosen the clamps. The entire housing comes off with the MAF safely attached. Look inside the housing and you should see one or two very then metal elements. They may appear black (dirty). Spray them with carb cleaner (don't touch them with anything; just use the spray) keep spraying until nice and shiny, allow to dry, then re-install. If the elements look broken, you may have to purchase a MAF. I just found out about this
www.fordpartsonline.com site and they seem to have very good deals on parts. That diry MAF causes soo much trouble, that I will clean it once a quarter for preventative maintenance.
Also, if you don't already have one, purchase the haynes repair manual for your year contour. Cost about $15 and worth every penny.
Good Luck.
Andre'
Let me know how it went.
