Commander 4WD V8-4.7L VIN N (2006)
Compass: Service and Repair
Calibration
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 Remote Compass Module (RCM).
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 the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) displays "CAL",
perform the following calibration procedure. Also, any time a new RCM is installed, it must be calibrated using this procedure.
Calibrate the compass manually as follows:
NOTE: 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.
1. Start the engine but leave the vehicle in "PARK".
2. Press and release the C/T button (1) so that the EVIC display is in the Compass/Temperature mode.
3. Depress and hold the C/T push button (1) for approximately ten seconds. The message "CAL" will appear in the EVIC display.
4. To complete the compass calibration, drive the vehicle in one or more complete 360 degree circles under 5 mph (8 km/h) in an area free of large
metal objects such as other vehicles, large buildings, or bridges; or, near overhead or underground power lines, until the "CAL" indicator turns off.
The compass will now function normally.
NOTE:
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If the compass display indicates an inaccurate compass heading or the display is locked up, the RCM may be inoperative or the vehicle may need
to be demagnetized. Perform the Compass Demagnetizing Procedure prior to performing any system diagnosis.
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If the compass display indicates dashes "- -" the RCM may be inoperative or the vehicle may need to be demagnetized. Perform the Compass
Demagnetizing Procedure prior to performing any system diagnosis.
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If the "CAL" message remains in the display or if the compass heading is inaccurate following the calibration procedure and there are no internal
compass faults, either there is excessive magnetism near the compass, or the unit is inoperative. Repeat the calibration procedure at least one more
time prior to performing any system diagnosis.
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If the wrong direction is still indicated in the compass display, the area selected for calibration may be too close to a strong magnetic field. Repeat
the calibration procedure in another location.
