OBDII codes (help)

It is located on the passenger side near the firewall. Look for a chrome disc and the purge valve is right below that. It is black, cylinder shaped and has a sensor wire attached to the bottom and hoses entering and exiting in the top. Check for fuel leaks and make sure the hoses are not cracked and are attached securely.

To test it you will need a vacuum pump. Now before you think this is an unneeded tool or a one time use tool, this thing comes in handy for similar tests (EGR valve) and can also be used for bleeding brake lines and clutch lines if you ever have the need. My suggestion is to do work yourself. You will save a ton of cash.

Anyway the pump is about 25 dollars at Autozone, or they may have one to rent/borrow. Check with them to see. First, detatch the hose to the purve valve and blow into it. A very small amount of air should move through. To vacuum check you should attach the vacuum hose and apply vacuum to the valve. If it doesn't hold a vacuum for more than 20 seconds then it should be replaced.

I'm thinking if you are able to blow through the thing pretty easily then it will probably be bad and need replacing. You can check with a parts store for a purge control solinoid for the evaporative emmissions control system. Napa lists the fuel system canister purge valve at $23. If you replace it just take the old part with you to make sure you get the right one.

Hope this helps

Rick