Compass Magnetic Variation Adjustment

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Cadillac CTS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Compass variance is the difference between the earth's magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, the compass in the vehicle could give false readings. Under certain circumstances, such as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to compensate for compass variance and reset the zone through the DIC.

Fig 1: World Magnetic Variation Map

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Fig 2: Illustrating Magnetic Variation Zones

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Locate your geographic location. Refer to Fig 2.
Turn ON the ignition with the engine OFF.
Press the vehicle information button until PRESS [CHECK] TO CHANGE COMPASS ZONE displays on the DIC.
Press the set/reset button to scroll through and select the appropriate variance zone.
Navigate to one of the trip/fuel menu screens to view the direction of the vehicle. This will be shown in the bottom line.

If the compass needs to be calibrated, use the compass calibration procedure below.