2001 DODGE RAM display

while maintaining a speed of 48 kilometers-per-hour
(30 miles-per-hour) or higher.
The thermometer function is supported by an
ambient temperature sensor. The sensor is mounted
outside the passenger compartment near the front
and center of the vehicle, and is hard wired to the
module. The ambient temperature sensor is available
as a separate service item.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
CALIBRATION
CAUTION: Do not place any external magnets, such
as magnetic roof mount antennas, in the vicinity of
the compass. Do not use magnetic tools when ser-
vicing the overhead console.
The electronic compass unit features a self-cali-
brating design, which simplifies the calibration pro-
cedure. This feature automatically updates the
compass calibration while the vehicle is being driven.
This allows the compass unit to compensate for small
changes in the residual magnetism that the vehicle
may acquire during normal use. If the compass read-
ings appear to be erratic or out of calibration, per-
form the following calibration procedure. Also, new
service replacement compass mini-trip computer
modules must have their compass calibrated using
this procedure. Do not attempt to calibrate the com-
pass near large metal objects such as other vehicles,
large buildings, or bridges; or, near overhead or
underground power lines.
(1) Start the engine. If the compass/temperature
data is not currently being displayed, momentarily
depress and release the Step push button to step
through the display options until you have reached
the compass/temperature display.
(2) Depress both the U.S./Metric and the Step
push buttons at the same time for more than six sec-
onds, until ªCALº appears in the display, then release
both push buttons. The ªCALº in the display indi-
cates that the compass is in the calibration mode.
(3) Drive the vehicle on a level surface, at least
fifty feet away from large metal objects and power
lines, in all four compass directions, such as driving
around a city block several times or driving in two to
three complete circles at a slow to medium speed.
(4) When the calibration is successfully completed,
ªCALº will disappear from the display and normal
compass mini-trip computer operation will resume.
NOTE: If the ªCALº message remains in the display,
either there is excessive magnetism near the com-
pass, or the unit is faulty. Repeat the calibration
procedure at least one more time.NOTE: If the wrong direction is still indicated in the
compass display, the area selected for calibration
may be too close to a strong magnetic field. Repeat
the calibration procedure in another location.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
VARIATION ADJUSTMENT
Compass variance, also known as magnetic decli-
nation, is the difference in angle between magnetic
north and true geographic north. In some geographic
locations, the difference between magnetic and geo-
graphic north is great enough to cause the compass
to give false readings. If this problem occurs, the
compass variance must be set. There are two meth-
ods that can be used to enter this information into
the compass mini-trip computer module. They are
the zone method and the direct method.
ZONE METHOD
(1) Using the Variance Settings map, find your
geographic location and note the zone number (Fig.
2).
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the Step
push button to step through the display options until
you have reached the compass/temperature display.
(3) Depress both the U.S./Metric and the Step
push buttons at the same time and hold them down
for more than 100 milliseconds, but not more than
one second. The compass mini-trip computer will
enter the variation adjustment mode and ªVARº
along with the current variance zone will appear in
the display.
(4) Momentarily depress and release the Step push
button to step through the zone numbers, until the
zone number for your geographic location appears in
the display.
(5) After five seconds, the displayed zone will auto-
matically be set in the compass mini-trip computer
module memory and normal operation will resume.
(6) Confirm that the correct directions are now
indicated by the compass.
DIRECT METHOD
(1) Turn the vehicle so it is headed in either the
north or south direction. The vehicle must be headed
within 45 degrees of north or south for this procedure
to work. The vehicle may be moving or stationary.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. If
the compass/temperature data is not currently being
displayed, momentarily depress and release the Step
push button to step through the display options until
you have reached the compass/temperature display.
8M - 4 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

(3) Depress both the U.S./Metric and the Step
push buttons at the same time and hold them down
for more than 100 milliseconds, but not more than
one second. The compass mini-trip computer will
enter the variation adjustment mode and ªVARº
along with the current variance zone will appear in
the display.
(4) Within the next five seconds, momentarily
depress and release the U.S./Metric push button. The
variance zone will automatically be set in the com-
pass mini-trip computer module memory and normal
operation will resume.
(5) If the ªVARº in the display flashes twice before
the compass mini-trip computer module resumes nor-
mal operation, the new variance zone setting was not
accepted. Reorient the vehicle so it is headed within
45 degrees of north or south and repeat this proce-
dure.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPASS
DEMAGNETIZING
A degaussing tool (Special Tool 6029) is used to
demagnetize, or degauss, the overhead console for-
ward mounting screw and the roof panel above the
overhead console. Equivalent units must be rated as
continuous duty for 110/115 volts and 60 Hz. They
must also have a field strength of over 350 gauss at 7
millimeters (0.25 inch) beyond the tip of the probe.
To demagnetize the roof panel and the overhead
console forward mounting screw, proceed as follows:(1) Be certain that the ignition switch is in the Off
position, before you begin the demagnetizing proce-
dure.
(2) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(3) Slowly approach the head of the overhead con-
sole forward mounting screw with the degaussing
tool connected.
(4) Contact the head of the screw with the plastic
coated tip of the degaussing tool for about two sec-
onds.
(5) With the degaussing tool still energized, slowly
back it away from the screw. When the tip of the tool
is at least 61 centimeters (2 feet) from the screw
head, disconnect the tool.
(6) Place a piece of paper approximately 22 by 28
centimeters (8.5 by 11 inches), oriented on the vehicle
lengthwise from front to rear, on the center line of
the roof at the windshield header (Fig. 3). The pur-
pose of the paper is to protect the roof panel from
scratches, and to define the area to be demagnetized.
(7) Connect the degaussing tool to an electrical
outlet, while keeping the tool at least 61 centimeters
(2 feet) away from the compass unit.
(8) Slowly approach the center line of the roof
panel at the windshield header, with the degaussing
tool connected.
(9) Contact the roof panel with the plastic coated
tip of the degaussing tool. Be sure that the template
Fig. 2 Variance Settings
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 5
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

(7) Remove the overhead console from the vehicle.
OVERHEAD CONSOLE DISASSEMBLY
GARAGE DOOR OPENER STORAGE BIN REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console from the head-
liner. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal
and Installation section of this group for the proce-
dures.
(3) If the vehicle is so equipped, remove the three
screws that secure the compass mini-trip computer
module to the back side of the overhead console hous-
ing. Move the module aside as needed for access to
the pivot latches that are integral to the overhead
console housing for the garage door opener storage
bin door pivot pins.
(4) Open the garage door opener storage bin door.
(5) From the back side of the of the overhead con-
sole housing, gently pry one of the pivot latches (Fig.
6) forward while pulling the garage door opener stor-
age bin door pivot arm rearward until the pivot pin
is disengaged from the latch. Repeat this step to dis-
engage the second pivot pin from its pivot latch.
(6) From the face side of the overhead console
housing, remove the garage door opener storage bin
door from the storage bin.
SUNGLASS STORAGE BIN REMOVAL
(1) Remove the overhead console from the head-
liner. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal
and Installation section of this group for the proce-
dures.
(2) Remove the four screws that secure the reading
and courtesy lamp housing to the back side of the
overhead console housing. Move the lamp housingaside as needed for access to the pivot latches that
are integral to the overhead console housing for the
sunglasses storage bin pivot pins.
(3) Open the sunglasses storage bin.
(4) From the back side of the of the overhead con-
sole housing, gently pry one of the pivot latches for-
ward while pulling the sunglasses storage bin pivot
arm rearward until the pivot pin is disengaged from
the latch. Repeat this step to disengage the second
pivot pin from its pivot latch.
(5) From the face side of the overhead console
housing, remove the sunglasses storage bin from the
overhead console.
COMPASS MINI-TRIP LENS REMOVAL
Overhead consoles equipped with the optional com-
pass mini-trip computer have a lens installed in the
front of the overhead console housing through which
the Vacuum-Fluorescent Display can be viewed. If
the overhead console is not equipped with the com-
pass mini-trip computer option, a plastic cover plug
is installed in the front of the overhead console hous-
ing in place of the lens.
(1) Remove the overhead console from the head-
liner. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal
and Installation section of this group for the proce-
dures.
(2) If the vehicle is so equipped, remove the com-
pass mini-trip computer module from the overhead
console. Refer toCompass Mini-Trip Computerin
the Removal and Installation section of this group for
the procedures.
(3) From the back side of the overhead console,
push downward firmly and evenly on the rear of the
trip computer lens to disengage the rear mounting
boss, or the snap features of the cover plug from the
overhead console housing.
(4) From the face of the overhead console, pull the
trip computer lens or the cover plug rearward far
enough to disengage the four forward mounting tabs
from the overhead console housing.
(5) Remove the trip computer lens or the cover
plug from the overhead console housing.
OVERHEAD CONSOLE ASSEMBLY
GARAGE DOOR OPENER STORAGE BIN
(1) From the face side of the overhead console
housing, position the garage door opener storage bin
door pivot arms through the openings in the front of
the storage bin.
(2) From the back side of the of the overhead con-
sole housing, align one of the pivot pins of the garage
door opener storage bin door with the pivot latch
integral to the overhead console housing. Press the
pivot arm forward until the pivot pin is engaged in
Fig. 6 Garage Door Opener Storage Bin Door Pivot
Latches
1 - PIVOT LATCHES
2 - COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER MODULE
3 - GARAGE DOOR OPENER STORAGE BIN DOOR PIVOT
ARMS
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 7
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

the latch. Repeat this step to engage the second pivot
pin with its pivot latch.
(3) Close the garage door opener storage bin door.
(4) If the vehicle is so equipped, position the com-
pass mini-trip computer module to the back side of
the overhead console housing. Install and tighten the
three screws that secure the module to the housing.
Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(5) Install the overhead console onto the headliner.
Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal and
Installation section of this group for the procedures.
SUNGLASS STORAGE BIN
(1) From the face side of the overhead console
housing, position the sunglasses storage bin pivot
arms through the openings in the front of the storage
bin housing in the overhead console.
(2) From the back side of the of the overhead con-
sole housing, align one of the pivot pins of the sun-
glasses storage bin with the pivot latch integral to
the overhead console housing. Press the pivot arm
forward until the pivot pin is engaged in the latch.
Repeat this step to engage the second pivot pin with
its pivot latch.
(3) Close the sunglasses storage bin.
(4) Position the reading and courtesy lamp housing
to the back side of the overhead console housing.
Install and tighten the four screws that secure the
lamp housing to the back of the overhead console
housing. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(5) Install the overhead console onto the headliner.
Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal and
Installation section of this group for the procedures.
MINI-TRIP COMPUTER LENS
Overhead consoles equipped with the optional com-
pass mini-trip computer have a lens installed in the
front of the overhead console housing through which
the Vacuum-Fluorescent Display can be viewed. If
the overhead console is not equipped with the com-
pass mini-trip computer option, a plastic cover plug
is installed in the front of the overhead console hous-
ing in place of the lens.
(1) Remove the trip computer lens or the cover
plug onto the overhead console housing.
(2) From the face of the overhead console, push the
trip computer lens or the cover plug forward far
enough to engage the four forward mounting tabs in
the overhead console unit.
(3) From the face of the overhead console, align
the rear mounting boss of the trip computer lens or
the alignment pin of the cover plug with the recepta-
cle in the overhead console housing.
(4) Press firmly and evenly on the rear edge of the
trip computer lens or the cover plug until the rear
mounting boss is fully seated in the receptacle, or thesnap features of the cover plug are fully engaged in
the overhead console housing.
(5) If the vehicle is so equipped, install the com-
pass mini-trip computer module onto the overhead
console. Refer toCompass Mini-Trip Computerin
the Removal and Installation section of this group for
the procedures.
(6) Install the overhead console onto the headliner.
Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal and
Installation section of this group for the procedures.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the overhead console near the mount-
ing location on the headliner in the vehicle.
(2) Reconnect the roof wire harness connector to
the overhead console wire harness connector.
(3) Engage the two mounting hooks on the rear of
the overhead console housing in the mounting holes
in the inner roof panel.
(4) Slide the overhead console forward far enough
to align the two latches on the front of the housing
with their receptacles in the inner roof panel.
(5) Push upward firmly and evenly on the front of
the overhead console until each of the two latches is
fully engaged in its receptacle in the inner roof panel.
(6) Close the garage door opener storage bin door.
(7) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
SPECIAL TOOLS
OVERHEAD CONSOLE SYSTEMS
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER
DESCRIPTION
The compass mini-trip computer is located in the
premium overhead console on models equipped with
this option. Two compass mini-trip computer units
are available. One unit is used on vehicles not
equipped with the Vehicle Theft Security System
(VTSS) option, and the other is used on vehicles with
the VTSS option. Both compass mini-trip computer
units include the electronic control module, a Vacu-
um-Fluorescent Display (VFD), a compass flux-gate
unit and two push button function switches.
Degaussing Tool 6029
8M - 8 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
OVERHEAD CONSOLE (Continued)

Compass mini-trip computer units for vehicles
equipped with the VTSS include a red Light-Emit-
ting Diode (LED) on their electronic circuit board.
This LED protrudes through the bottom of the lens
on the front of the overhead console unit, and serves
as the security indicator lamp. Refer toSecurity
Indicator Lampin Vehicle Theft/Security Systems
for more information on this feature.
The compass mini-trip computer module contains a
central processing unit and interfaces with other
electronic modules in the vehicle on the Chrysler Col-
lision Detection (CCD) data bus network. The CCD
data bus network allows the sharing of sensor infor-
mation. This helps to reduce wire harness complexity,
reduce internal controller hardware, and reduce com-
ponent sensor current loads. At the same time, this
system provides increased reliability, enhanced diag-
nostics, and allows the addition of many new feature
capabilities.
The compass mini-trip computer provides several
electronic functions and features. Some of the func-
tions and features that the compass mini-trip com-
puter module supports and/or controls, include the
following display options:
²Compass and temperature- provides the out-
side temperature and one of eight compass readings
to indicate the direction the vehicle is facing.
²Compass and compass in degrees- provides
one of eight compass readings to indicate the direc-
tion the vehicle is facing and provides the compass
direction in degrees.
²Trip odometer (ODO)- shows the distance
travelled since the last trip computer reset.
²Average fuel economy (AVG ECO)- shows
the average fuel economy since the last trip computer
reset.
²Instant fuel economy (ECO)- shows the
present fuel economy based upon the current vehicle
distance and fuel used information.
²Distance to empty (DTE)- shows the esti-
mated distance that can be travelled with the fuel
remaining in the fuel tank. This estimated distance
is computed using the average miles-per-gallon from
the last 30 gallons of fuel used.
²Elapsed time (ET)- shows the accumulated
ignition-on time since the last trip computer reset.
²Blank screen- the compass mini-trip VFD is
turned off.
The ambient temperature sensor is hard wired to
the compass mini-trip computer module. Data input
for all other compass mini-trip computer functions,
including VFD dimming level, is received through
CCD data bus messages. The compass mini-trip com-
puter uses its internal programming and all of these
inputs to calculate and display the requested data. If
the data displayed is incorrect, perform the self-diag-nostic tests as described in this group. If these tests
prove inconclusive, the use of a DRBIIItscan tool
and the proper Diagnostic Procedures manual are
recommended for further testing of the compass
mini-trip computer module and the CCD data bus.
The compass mini-trip computer module cannot be
repaired, and is available for service only as a unit. If
faulty or damaged, the complete module must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The compass mini-trip computer only operates with
the ignition switch in the On position. When the igni-
tion switch is turned to the On position, all of the
segments in the compass mini-trip computer VFD
will be turned on for one second, then the display
will return to the last function being displayed before
the ignition was turned to the Off position. With the
ignition switch in the On position, momentarily
depressing and releasing the Step push button switch
will cause the compass-mini-trip computer to change
its mode of operation, and momentarily depressing
and releasing the U.S./Metric push button will cause
the unit to toggle between U.S. and Metric measure-
ments. While in either compass mode, depressing the
U.S./Metric push button for more than ten seconds
will toggle the display between the compass/temper-
ature and the compass/compass in degrees modes.
This compass mini-trip computer features several
functions that can be reset. If both the Step and U.S./
Metric push buttons are depressed at the same time
with the ignition switch in the On position, the trip
computer information that can be reset is reset.
Depressing and releasing the Step and U.S./Metric
push buttons at the same time for more than 100
milliseconds, but not more than one second while in
any display mode (except the compass/temperature
mode) will cause a local reset. A local reset affects
only the function currently displayed. See the Reset
Chart below for more information on this feature.
Performing a local reset while in the compass/tem-
perature mode enters the module into the compass
variance setting mode.
Depressing and releasing the Step and U.S./Metric
push buttons at the same time for more than two
seconds while in any display mode (except the com-
pass/temperature mode) will cause a global reset. A
global reset changes all of the trip computer func-
tions that can be reset.
For more information on the features and control
functions of the compass mini-trip computer, see the
owner's manual in the vehicle glove box.
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 9
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - COMPASS MINI-TRIP
COMPUTER
If the problem with the compass mini-trip com-
puter module is an inoperative security indicator
lamp, refer toSecurity Indicator Lampin Vehicle
Theft/Security Systems. If the problem with the com-
pass mini-trip computer module is an ªOCº or ªSCº in
the compass/thermometer display, refer toAmbient
Temperature Sensorin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. If the problem with the com-
pass mini-trip computer module is an inaccurate or
scrambled display, refer toSelf-Diagnostic Testin
the Diagnosis and Testing section of this group. If the
problem with the compass mini-trip computer module
is incorrect Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) dim-
ming levels, use a DRBtscan tool and the proper
Diagnostic Procedures manual to test for the correct
dimming message inputs being received from the
instrument cluster over the Chrysler Collision Detec-
tion (CCD) data bus. If the problem is a no-display
condition, use the following procedures. For complete
circuit diagrams, refer toOverhead Consolein the
Contents of Wiring Diagrams.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse in the junction block.
If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted cir-
cuit or component as required and replace the faulty
fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
in the junction block. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK,
repair the open fused B(+) circuit to the battery as
required.
(3) Check the fused ignition switch output (run/
start) fuse in the junction block. If OK, go to Step 4.
If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component as
required and replace the faulty fuse.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) fuse in the junction block. If OK,
go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the open fused ignition
switch output (run/start) circuit to the ignition switch
as required.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the overhead console. Check for continuity
between the ground circuit cavities of the roof wire
harness connector for the overhead console and a
good ground. There should be continuity. If OK, go to
Step 6. If not OK, repair the open ground circuit to
ground as required.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable. Check for
battery voltage at the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the
roof wire harness connector for the overhead console.
If OK, go to Step 7. If not OK, repair the open fused
B(+) circuit to the junction block fuse as required.(7) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run/start) circuit cavity of the roof wire har-
ness connector for the overhead console. If OK, refer
toSelf-Diagnostic Testin the Diagnosis and Test-
ing section of this group for further diagnosis of the
compass mini-trip computer module and the CCD
data bus. If not OK, repair the open fused ignition
switch output (run/start) circuit to the junction block
fuse as required.
SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TEST
A self-diagnostic test is used to determine that the
compass mini-trip computer module is operating
properly electrically. Initiate the self-diagnostic test
as follows:
(1) With the ignition switch in the Off position,
simultaneously depress and hold the Step button and
the U.S./Metric button.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
(3) Continue to hold both buttons depressed until
the compass mini-trip computer module enters the
display segment test. In this test, all of the Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) segments are lighted
while the compass mini-trip computer module per-
forms the following checks:
²Microprocessor RAM read/write test
²Non-volatile memory read/write test
²Microprocessor ROM verification test
²CCD communications test.
(4) Following completion of these tests, the com-
pass mini-trip computer will display one of three
messages: ªPASS,º ªFAIL,º or ªCCd.º Respond to the
respective test results as follows:
²If the ªPASSº message is displayed, but compass
mini-trip computer operation is still improper, the
use of a DRB scan tool and the proper Diagnostic
Procedures manual are required for further diagno-
sis.
²If the ªFAILº message is displayed, the compass
mini-trip computer module is faulty and must be
replaced.
²If the ªCCdº message is displayed, the use of a
DRBtscan tool and the proper Diagnostic Proce-
dures manual are required for further diagnosis.
²If any VFD segment should fail to light during
the display segment test, the compass mini-trip com-
puter module is faulty and must be replaced.
(5) If all tests are passed, or if the ignition switch
is turned to the Off position, the compass mini-trip
computer module will automatically return to normal
operation.
8M - 10 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

NOTE: If the compass functions, but accuracy is
suspect, it may be necessary to perform a variation
adjustment. This procedure allows the compass
unit to accommodate variations in the earth's mag-
netic field strength, based on geographic location.
Refer to Compass Variation Adjustment in the Ser-
vice Procedures section of this group.
NOTE: If the compass reading has blanked out, and
only ªCALº appears in the display, demagnetizing
may be necessary to remove excessive residual
magnetic fields from the vehicle. Refer to Compass
Demagnetizing in the Service Procedures section of
this group.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the overhead console from the head-
liner. Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal
and Installation section of this group for the proce-
dures.
(3) Remove the three screws that secure the com-
pass mini-trip computer module to the overhead con-
sole housing (Fig. 7).
(4) Pull the compass mini-trip computer module
away from the overhead console far enough to access
the wire harness connector.
(5) Disconnect the overhead console wire harness
connector from the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule connector receptacle.
(6) Remove the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule from the overhead console housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the compass mini-trip computer mod-
ule onto the overhead console housing.
(2) Reconnect the overhead console wire harness
connector to the compass mini-trip computer module
connector receptacle.
(3) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the compass mini-trip computer module to the over-
head console housing. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m
(20 in. lbs.).
(4) Install the overhead console onto the headliner.
Refer toOverhead Consolein the Removal and
Installation section of this group for the procedures.
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
NOTE: If a new compass mini-trip computer has
been installed, the compass will have to be cali-
brated and the variance set. Refer to Compass Vari-
ation Adjustment and Compass Calibration in the
Service Procedures section of this group for the
procedures.
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
Ambient air temperature is monitored by the com-
pass mini-trip computer module through the ambient
temperature sensor. The ambient temperature sensor
is a variable resistor mounted to a bracket that is
secured with a screw to the underside of the hood
panel near the hood latch striker in the engine com-
partment.
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toOverhead
Consolein the Contents of Wiring Diagrams. The
ambient temperature sensor cannot be adjusted or
repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The ambient temperature sensor is a variable
resistor that operates on a five-volt reference signal
sent to it by the compass mini-trip computer module.
The resistance in the sensor changes as temperature
changes, changing the return circuit voltage to the
compass mini-trip computer module. Based upon the
resistance in the sensor, the compass mini-trip com-
puter module senses a specific voltage on the return
circuit, which it is programmed to correspond to a
specific temperature.Fig. 7 Compass Mini-Trip Computer
1 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
2 - SCREWS (3)
3 - COMPASS MINI-TRIP COMPUTER MODULE
4 - FRONT LATCHES
BR/BEMESSAGE SYSTEMS 8M - 11
COMPASS/MINI-TRIP COMPUTER (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS & TESTING - AMBIENT
TEMPERATURE SENSOR
The thermometer function is supported by the
ambient temperature sensor, a wiring circuit, and a
portion of the compass mini-trip computer module. If
any portion of the ambient temperature sensor cir-
cuit fails, the compass/thermometer display function
will self-diagnose the circuit. If 55É C (131É F)
appears in the display, the sensor is being exposed to
temperatures above 55É C (131É F), or the sensor cir-
cuit is shorted. If ±40É C (±40É F) appears in the dis-
play, the sensor is being exposed to temperatures
below ±40É C (±40É F), or the sensor circuit is open.
The ambient temperature sensor circuit can also be
diagnosed using the following Sensor Test, and Sen-
sor Circuit Test. If the temperature sensor and cir-
cuit are confirmed to be OK, but the temperature
display is inoperative or incorrect, refer toCompass
Mini-Trip Computerin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. For complete circuit diagrams,
refer toOverhead Consolein the Contents of Wir-
ing Diagrams.
SENSOR TEST
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor wire har-
ness connector.
(2) Measure the resistance of the ambient temper-
ature sensor. At ±40É C (±40É F), the sensor resis-
tance is 336 kilohms. At 55É C (131É F), the sensor
resistance is 2.488 kilohms. The sensor resistance
should read between these two values. If OK, refer to
Sensor Circuit Testin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of this group. If not OK, replace the faulty
ambient temperature sensor.
SENSOR CIRCUIT TEST
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the ambient temperature sensor wire har-
ness connector and the overhead console wire har-
ness connector.
(2) Connect a jumper wire between the two termi-
nals in the body half of the ambient temperature sen-
sor wire harness connector.
(3) Check for continuity between the sensor return
circuit and the ambient temperature sensor signal
circuit cavities of the roof wire harness overhead con-
sole connector. There should be continuity. If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open sensor return
circuit or ambient temperature sensor signal circuit
to the ambient temperature sensor as required.(4) Remove the jumper wire from the body half of
the ambient temperature sensor wire harness con-
nector. Check for continuity between the sensor
return circuit cavity of the roof wire harness over-
head console connector and a good ground. There
should be no continuity. If OK, go to Step 5. If not
OK, repair the shorted sensor return circuit as
required.
(5) Check for continuity between the ambient tem-
perature sensor signal circuit cavity of the roof wire
harness overhead console connector and a good
ground. There should be no continuity. If OK, refer to
Compass Mini-Trip Computerin the Diagnosis
and Testing section of this group. If not OK, repair
the shorted ambient temperature sensor signal cir-
cuit as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Locate the ambient temperature sensor, on the
underside of the hood near the hood latch striker
(Fig. 8).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
ambient temperature sensor connector receptacle.
(4) Remove the one screw that secures the ambient
temperature sensor bracket to the inner hood rein-
forcement.
(5) Remove the ambient temperature sensor from
the inner hood reinforcement.
Fig. 8 Ambient Temperature Sensor Remove/Install
1 - HOOD
2 - SCREW
3 - SENSOR AND BRACKET
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - HOOD LATCH STRIKER
8M - 12 MESSAGE SYSTEMSBR/BE
AMBIENT TEMP SENSOR (Continued)