I was attempting to reset my trip computer and inadvertently held down the right button. 'var 8' displayed then changed to '9'. The right button does not drop the number. I held down the right button again and the value went to '10'.

What does this number mean? I do not know why it was at '8'. I happen to be in the Pacific time zone (-8 hours GMT). Is it somehow related to that? If so, would i just keep bumping the number up until it rolls over and starts from from zero, then continue to '8'?

 

What does it say in the handbook?

 

It is a variable for compass setting, there are 9 variables depending on where you are located in the US

 

It stands for "Variation", a measure of how much magnetic north varies from true north. It is dependent on where you live. Check your owners manual for how to set it and what it should be set to for your area.

 

Thanks for the info and reminder to RTFM. I was posting on another issue and I got lazy on this one. The manual (of course) described the regional setting for the variance in magnetic north vs. true north.

I also learned that 'cal' was always displayed. That this meant I needed to calibrate the compass by driving in a circle (7-10 mph) 2 to 6 times until 'cal' was no longer displayed. It only took 2 circles.

Now I am in the correct 'zone' and know which direction I am driving in.

Thanks

 

i changed mine to one from the T@C i junked, and it calibrated itself in a few days.