how-to: gentex autodimming mirror w/compass

[lee]

hey guys, thought id spread this over to you:

this is my writeup on installing a gentex (model 177) autodimming mirror with compass into a 2001 4Runner.

http://www.kidmoe.com/4runner/writeup/

check it out, let me know if you have any questions!

 

[Hammer42]

Compass

Good info on the install... I have one of these mirrors in my 98 Limited. However, every time I go to the "compass" mode, it displays a "C" asking for a calibration. I can then drive in a circle until I get a proper N, S, E, W. But it goes back to a "C" EVERY time I turn the car off and on again. I don't know why its not holding a calibration...??

 

[CruZin1A]

My guess would be because it is not connected to a constant hot.

 

[lee]

yup, that probably is the case.

ive had mine installed for months now and its only gone to "C" twice.

I held down the compass button, let it count up through the numbers while driving in a circle, then hit the button once more, and it works.

ive heard dealer-installs of these mirrors can be somewhat shady... open up the console and check your wiring.. dont be afraid of it, its quite easy to put back in place after inspecting.