Without Message Center

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Mercury Mountaineer and 2004 Ford Explorer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The compass zone setting is preset from the factory to Zone 8.

Fig 1: Identifying Compass Zone Graph

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Determine which magnetic zone you are in for your geographic location.
Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
Locate the compass module at the base of the mirror.

Fig 2: Locating Compass Module At Base Of Mirror
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Insert a paperclip into the small hole on the bottom of the sensor module. Press and hold until ZONE and the current zone setting (1-15) appear in the instrument cluster display, and release.

Fig 3: Inserting Paperclip Into Small Hole On Bottom Of Sensor Module
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Press on the paperclip repeatedly to cycle through the possible zone settings until the setting for your geographic location is displayed.
Release pressure on the paperclip to exit the zone setting mode. After approximately 5 seconds the display will report the direction and the zone will be set.