Compass Magnetic Variation Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Montana, 2002 Oldsmobile Silhouette, and 2002 Chevrolet Venture. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Compass Magnetic Variation Adjustment

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Compass variation is the difference between magnetic north and geographic north. In some areas of the country the difference is great enough to cause the compass to give a false reading. If this occurs, the compass variance must be set. View the Variance Zone Display to determine the correct zone. The zones are numbered 1 through 15. Depress and hold both the MODE and the E/M buttons simultaneously while the DIC is in the Compass/Temperature mode. After 5 seconds, the DIC will display the current variation setting. Release the buttons and adjust to the correct variation number using the E/M button. Consult the map for variation zone numbers. When the desired variation is reached press the MODE button to accept.

You cannot reset the Compass/Temperature mode. This mode is retained during ignition OFF.