A SHORT INTRODUCTION
Because the vehicle's sheet metal magnetism tends to change over time,
the compass may lose accuracy and need to be calibrated. This condition
is indicated if the True North Adjustment does not correct an inaccurate
compass. A compass that is newly installed in a vehicle must also be calibrated.
The compass is calibrated as follows:
- Find an open area free from steel structures and high voltage
power lines.
- Ensure that all doors are closed and the map lamp in overhead
console is off.
- Place a paperclip, toothpick, or similar object into the
compass recessed button "A" hole (by temperature
button) and push up gently until the CAL indicator turns
ON. Release recessed button.
- Slowly drive vehicle less than 5 km/h (3 mph) in a circle
until the CAL indicator turns OFF. At this point, calibration
is complete.
- Perform Compass True North Adjustment as outlined.
NOTE: The electronic compass senses magnetic North to determine
direction. Most roads and maps are based on geographic "true north",
which varies considerably from magnetic north across the country.
Components made of ferrous metals (such as iron and steel)
and vehicle electrical accessories affect compass readings, by
changing the magnetic field.
COMPASS TRUE NORTH ADJUSTMENT
Compass/thermometer calibration and vehicle demagnetizing have been
performed by the manufacturer. However, the True North Adjustment has
not been performed. Vehicle location will determine how accurate the compass
is without performing the True North Adjustment. In coastal or mountainous
areas the differences between true north and magnetic north vary considerably.
Whenever a vehicle is received from the manufacturer or whenever a compass
is thought to be inaccurate, the first step taken should be to perform
the True North Adjustment. The compass True North Adjustment is set as
follows:
- Place a paperclip, toothpick, or similar object into compass
recessed button "B". Push up gently and hold until
the word VAR lights up and a number 1 appears to the left of
VAR. Remove object from adjustment hole.
- Determine which zone of the country you are in by use of the map below.
- Press compass button until the correct zone number appears.
- Complete the true north setting by again placing a paperclip
or a similar object in the compass recessed button "B" and
push up gently and release.
