Description - Compass

When in the compass/temperature mode, the cluster will display the direction in which the vehicle is pointed using the eight major compass headings (Examples: north is N, northeast is NE). The CMTC module contains a self-calibrating compass that requires no adjusting in normal use. The only calibration that may prove necessary is to drive the vehicle in three complete circles at 5 to 8 kilometers-per-hour (3 to 5 miles-per-hour), on level ground, in not less than forty-eight seconds. This will reorient the compass to its vehicle.

The compass will compensate for magnetism the body of the vehicle may acquire during normal use. However, avoid placing anything magnetic directly on the roof of the vehicle. Magnetic mounts for an antenna, a repair order hat, or a funeral procession flag can exceed the compensating ability of the compass unit if placed on the roof panel. Magnetic bit drivers used on the fasteners that hold the overhead console assembly to the roof header can also affect compass operation. If the vehicle roof should become magnetized, the demagnetizing and calibration procedures found in this article may be required to restore proper compass operation.

Fig 1: Identifying CS Overhead Console

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Following are general descriptions of the major components used in the overhead console. Refer to INSTRUMENT CLUSTER for more information.