Adding Compass Module

[JeffJ]

One (very very minor) issue that's seen when swapping to aftermarket head units (from 7" and 8.4") is the loss of the instrument cluster compass.

The direction source is the head unit if you have the two larger Uconnect systems. JTs with the base radio have a separate "compass module" on the linbus located somewhere above/behind the passenger side airbag.

Does the little compass display on the dash matter in reality? Probably not. I thought it might be fun to try to fix anyway by adding an OEM compass module.

Assumption (a big one):
The wiring connection for the compass module exists behind the dash.

TBD:
How accessible is the mounting location without tearing the whole truck apart? Don't know yet.

Will the compass module just "work" or need activation via JScan or similar? Also don't know yet.

The compass module is available, inexpensive and appears to be the same one used in many applications.

I'm going to get in touch with @AllMoparParts.com to get the module on the way and go exploring behind the dash. I'll update this thread with info as I learn more.

So, if you have an aftermarket head unit and actually care about your dash compass, feel free to follow along as I try to figure this out. I couldn't find a thread where anyone has bothered to try this one.

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[Vtur]

The factory Nav icon also display the compass.

 

[JeffJ]

Update: It works!

Ordered compass module 68264745AA. Pulled the passenger side airbag. The harness plug for the compass module was present and just plugged into nothing.

The compass module mounted up right next to that plug (there are bolt holes present).

Reassembled the dash. Now I get compass readings on my instrument cluster even though I have an aftermarket head unit.

It *is* off by about 90 degrees at the moment. I'm thinking calibrating it will resolve that.

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