Setting the Compass/Compass Calibration

Setting the Compass
Compass Calibration

CAUTION: DO NOT PLACE ANY EXTERNAL MAGNETS SUCH AS MAGNETIC ROOF MOUNT ANTENNAS IN THE VICINITY OF THE COMPASS. DO NOT USE MAGNETIC TOOLS WHEN SERVICING THE OVERHEAD CONSOLE.

The electronic compass unit features a self-calibrating design which simplifies the calibration procedure. This feature automatically updates the compass calibration while the vehicle is being driven. This allows the compass unit to compensate for small changes in the residual magnetism that the vehicle may acquire during normal use. If the compass readings appear to be erratic or out of calibration perform the following calibration procedure. Also new service replacement Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) modules must have their compass calibrated using this procedure. Do not attempt to calibrate the compass near large metal objects such as other vehicles large buildings or bridges; or near overhead or underground power lines.

NOTE: WHENEVER THE COMPASS IS CALIBRATED MANUALLY THE VARIANCE NUMBER MUST ALSO BE RESET.

If the module displays the temperature while the compass is blank or displays a false reading the vehicle must be demagnetized. See the service procedure.

If the compass still goes blank after the vehicle is demagnetized the compass/mini-trip module must be replaced.

Compass Variation Adjustment
Compass variance also known as magnetic declination is the difference in angle between magnetic north and true geographic north. In some geographic locations the difference between magnetic and geographic north is great enough to cause the compass to give false readings. If this problem occurs the compass variance setting may need to be changed.

To set the compass variance:
1. Using the Variance Settings map find your geographic location and note the zone number.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position. If the compass/thermometer data is not currently being displayed momentarily depress and release the C/T push button to reach the compass/thermometer display.
3. Depress the Reset push button and hold the button down until "VARIANCE = XX" appears in the display. This takes about five seconds.
4. Release the Reset push button. "VARIANCE = XX will remain in the display. "XX" equals the current variance code setting.
5. Momentarily depress and release the Step push button to step through the zone numbers until the zone number for your geographic location appears in the display.
6. Momentarily depress and release the Reset push button to enter the displayed zone number into the EVIC module memory.
7. Confirm that the correct directions are now indicated by the compass.

NOTE: DO NOT ATTACH ANY MAGNETIC DEVICE SUCH AS A MAGNETIC CB ANTENNA TO THE VEHICLE. THIS CAN CAUSE THE COMPASS TO GIVE FALSE READINGS.