How to Choose a Vehicle Compass
An expensive GPS system for the car is not necessary when a simple vehicle compass can serve the purpose of identifying the general directions. Knowing what vehicle compass features to look for helps a car owner choose the right auto accessory.
Instructions
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Choose a vehicle compass with large letters or numbers so it is easy to read. Test the compass by holding it at arm's length and seeing if the letters are legible.
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2
Pick a liquid compass with a slow spin that allows for easy reading.
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3
Find a compass with good suction cups for mounting to the windshield.
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Choose a digital vehicle compass with a backlit screen for night viewing.
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5
Buy a vehicle compass that requires no wiring to operate.
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Pick a compass with a sunshade that blocks out glares and increases visibility in bright lights.
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Verify that the liquid compass adjusts for magnetic interference generated by the car. Without this adjustment, the compass will give inaccurate readings.
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Test the pivot arm on a windshield-mounted model and choose one with a good pivot angle. The angle allows for driver adjustments with ease.
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Buy a battery-operated vehicle compass with an automatic shut off feature to save on battery and compass life.
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10
Attach a postage-stamp-sized display compass to the rear view mirror instead of attaching a two inch ball to the windshield. These small vehicle compasses are button activated, mounted with Velcro and have a sensor behind the mirror.
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Tips & Warnings
Read the compass package details carefully, it may require batteries for operation.
Follow the vehicle compass instructions provided for simple do-it-yourself installation.
Get a built in instrument panel with some digital compass models. These panels may contain options such as barometers, clocks and thermometers.