Overhead compass/Outside Temp.

[mikemadie]

I have a 2000 Ford Explorer and a few months ago, my compass would not work all the time. Now it is at the point that it doesn't work at all. I thought maybe it was the fuse but my husband say it couldn't be or it would have just quit all together from the begining. HELP! Does anybody know what I can do to fix this (I am directionally challenged without it).

Thanks in advance for all your help!

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

Could you describe the problem a bit better?

Is it just the compass that doesn't work, or does the outside temperature not display either? Is it just not displaying accurately, or the display is blank?

If neither the compass nor the temperature display is visible, then see if it corresponds to when the headlights are on that the display doesn't work. Maybe you have the instrument illumination turned down all the way. If the display never works now, even with the headlights off, check fuse 10 in the central junction box (7.5A). Remove it and re-insert it in case it is a connection issue. If that didn't work, press the "mode" button a couple of times to see if you have the display turned off.

If only the compass portion doesn't work, but the temperature does, make sure you don't just have the compass disabled via the mode button. If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the compass/temperature module.

If the compass just isn't displaying properly, you may need to recalibrate the compass. Instructions for this should be listed in the owner's manual.

-Rod

[mikemadie]

Rod, Thanks for the welcome and all your advice.

Yep, nothing works (the compass or the temp.) with the lights on or off. I have tried the button, sometimes if I hit it enough or hold it in long enough it will come on for a split second and then gone again. I will def. try the fuse, I hope that is all it is. I have dumped enough money into this peice of crap.

I will try that maybe this evening, I will let you know if it worked. Thanks!

[shorod]

I agree with your husband, it doesn't sound like a fuse issue. Sounds like you may have a cold solder joint on the board that is momentarily making contact as you press on a button and twist the board.

-Rod

[mikemadie]

That was actually my second guess. I just have to figure out how to get the darn cover off. Boy, the old cars were soooo much nicer. I will still take the fuse out and try that, since it is easy, then when I have a little time I will fight with the darn cover.

Thanks alot!

Have a good day!

[mikemadie]

Ok, I guess this site is just like taking your car to a mechanic. Ever since I posted, it has been working fine. I never had to remove the fuse or anything. WOOOO HOOOOO!

Maybe I should post all of my problems and they will fix themselves.

1. Why do my brakes squeal? Pads are good (and rotars (SP?))

2. Why do the windows, especially the back ones stop working at times and only the driver can control them. (no the lock is not on).

3. Why is the door handle on the inside stuck out? You can not open the door from the inside back seat, drivers side.

4.Why do I have to keep replacing the upper ball joint on the passanger side?

Hopefully they will all be fixed when I leave work today.

You guys have a wonderful day and enjoy this beautiful weather.

[mikemadie]

Well that didn't work, but it was a nice try I guess.