Compass Variance Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 RAM Pickup and 2012 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Magnetic & Geographic North Map

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

Compass variance, also known as magnetic declination, is the difference in angle between magnetic north and true geographic north. In some geographic locations, the difference between magnetic and geographic north is great enough to cause the compass to give false readings. If this problem occurs, the compass variance must be set.

NOTE:

If the vehicle is taken on long trips into a new variance zone the compass function may be effected. Compass variance may need to be adjusted to the new zone number to function properly.

NOTE:

The default for the compass variance from the factory is 8.

To set the compass variance:

Fig 2: Steering Wheel Switches (Scroll Buttons)

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

Using the Variance Settings Map, find your geographic location and note the zone number.
Turn the ignition switch to the On/Run position.
Press and release the SCROLL push buttons (3) until "System setup" displayed in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) display is selected.

Fig 3: Steering Wheel Switches
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Press and release the SELECT push button (1) to enter "System setup".
Press and release the SCROLL push buttons until "Compass Variance" displayed in the EVIC is selected.
Press and release the SELECT push button to enter the "Compass Variance" adjustment mode.
Press and release the SELECT push button repeatedly to toggle through the zone numbers (1-15), until the zone number for your geographic location appears in the EVIC display.
Press and release the BACK push button (2) to enter the displayed zone number into the compass unit memory.
Confirm that the correct directions are now indicated by the compass.