Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Compass Magnetic Variation Adjustment
2004 Oldsmobile Bravada RWDSECTION Compass Magnetic Variation Adjustment
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Sierra, 2002 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2002 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2002 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Magnetic variation adjustments are required when the compass displays a constant error in heading.
Variation is the difference a between magnetic north and true north due to geographical location.
- Locate your current geographic location on the World Magnetic Variation Map.
- Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
- Press and hold the switch for the compass, which may be depicted as COMP, COMPASS, or on/off (w/UE1) depending on the type of mirror on the vehicle, until a zone number appears on the compass display.
- Depress the switch or the compass to select the desired zone number.
- Wait 5 seconds. The display will return to a compass heading. The variance procedure is now complete.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.