Compass: Description and Operation

COMPASS

System Description
- This electronic compass is able to display 8 primary directions: N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, NW.




- The inside mirror switch (2) is used to operate the compass and automatic anti-glare system.






- All standard compasses determine direction relative to Magnetic North; however, this electronic compass is designed to display direction relative to True North.
- The difference between Magnetic North and True North varies from place to place across the surface of the earth.
- This electronic compass must be "told" approximately where it is on the earth's surface so that the Magnetic North reading can be properly converted into a True North display.
- To tell the electronic compass where it's at, the earth is separated into numbered "Zone Variances". The Zone Variance number in which the compass is to function must be entered into this electronic compass.
- Each zone is magnetically about 4.2° wide. Typically, anything under 22.5° total zone change is not noticed on the electronic compass display. However, over 22.5°, a reading may be off by one or more primary directions.
- On long trips, a vehicle may leave its original zone and enter one or more new zones. Generally, you do not need to reset the compass zone if you travel between 3 or 4 zones, such as business travel or vacation. The typical driver will not notice any difference on the display within 3 or 4 zones. However, if the vehicle is "permanently" moved to a new location, it is recommended that the compass zone be reset.

Troubleshooting
- The electronic compass is highly protected from changes in most magnetic fields. However, some large changes in magnetic fields can affect it. Some examples are (but not limited to): high tension power lines, large steel buildings, subways, steel bridges, automatic car washes, large piles of scrap metal, etc. While this does not happen very often, it is possible.
- During normal operation, the Compass Mirror will continuously update the compass calibration to adjust for gradual changes in the vehicle's magnetic "remnant" field. If the vehicle is subjected to high magnetic influences, the compass may appear to indicate false headings, become locked, or appear that it is unable to be calibrated. If this occurs, perform the calibration procedure.
- If at any time the compass continually displays the incorrect direction or the reading is erratic or locked, verify the correct zone variance.






Zone Variation Setting Procedure

NOTE: The zone setting is factory preset ("default" setting) to zone 8.




1. Press and hold the inside mirror switch for 6 - 9 seconds.
2. The current zone setting appears on the compass display.
3. Find the current geographical location number in the Zone Variation Chart.
4. Select the new zone number. (Press the inside mirror switch until the new zone number appears on the compass display.)
5. After select the new zone number, the compass display will automatically shows a direction within a few seconds.
6. Preform the following Calibration Procedure for more accurate indications.

Calibration Procedure

NOTE: The compass calibrates itself under normal driving conditions. However, occasional circumstances may cause the compass to operate inaccurately. Example: Driving from rural (wide open) areas to crowded city areas, or if an aftermarket (i.e., non original equipment) antenna with a magnetic base is attached to the vehicle. Calibrate the mirror compass if the display shows only one direction or a limited number of directions.

NOTE:
- If "magnetic hats" are used in the dealership for vehicle identification, remove the hat from the vehicle before performing the following steps. Do NOT put the hat back on the vehicle after the procedure is completed.
- Drive the vehicle to an open level area; away from large metallic objects, structures, and overhead power lines.
- Turn off "non-essential" electrical accessories (rear window defrost, heater/air conditioning, wipers) and close the doors.

1. Verify the correct compass zone setting for the geographical location. Refer to DI-95, "Zone Variation Setting Procedure". Description and Operation
2. Press and hold the inside mirror switch for more than 9 seconds.
3. "C" is displayed on the compass display, when calibration starts.
4. Drive slowly [less than 8 km/h (5 mph)] in a circle until the "C / CAL" is replaced with primary headings (N, NE, E, SE, S, SW, W, or NW).

NOTE: This will require driving at least 2 complete 360 degree circles; 3 complete circles may be required.

5. The compass calibration procedure is now complete. The compass should operate normally.

NOTE: If at any time the compass continually displays the incorrect direction or the reading is erratic or locked, repeat the calibration procedure.