Compass Accuracy

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Ford RV Cutaway, 2008 Ford Econoline, 2008 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2008 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Luggage racks and magnetic mounted devices like antennas should not be located on the front third of the vehicle roof. Placing these devices near the compass causes inaccurate directional readings. If these devices must be used, accuracy of the compass may be improved by calibrating the compass while the devices are installed on the vehicle.

Driving near power lines, or driving in the area of large iron or steel structures can temporarily change the compass heading. If the compass remains inaccurate after driving near such objects, demagnetize the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Demagnetizing .

Most geographic areas (zones) have a magnetic north compass point that varies slightly from the northerly direction on maps. This variation is 4 degrees between the adjacent zones and becomes noticeable as the vehicle crosses multiple zones. A correct zone setting eliminates the error. Refer to Compass Zone Adjustment .