Instrument Panel System

INSTRUMENT PANEL SYSTEM

DESCRIPTION
The instrument panel serves as the command center of the vehicle, which necessarily makes it a very complex unit. The instrument panel is designed to house the controls and monitors for standard and optional powertrains, climate control systems, audio systems, lighting systems, safety systems and many other comfort or convenience items. The instrument panel is also designed so that all of the various controls can be safely reached and the monitors can be easily viewed by the vehicle operator when driving, while still allowing relative ease of access to each of these items for service. See the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more information on the features, use and operation of all of the instrument panel components and systems.

INSTRUMENT PANEL

DESCRIPTION
This instrument panel is molded from a blend of various plastics that are mechanically attached to the vehicle. Colors are molded into the plastic components to minimize appearance degradation from scratches or abrasions. The panel components are internally ribbed and riveted to steel reinforcements for additional structural integrity and dimensional stability.

The instrument panel surface components are designed to deform upon impact without breaking. This type of construction provides improved energy absorption which, in conjunction with the dual airbag modules and seat belts, helps to improve occupant protection.

Modular instrument panel construction allows all of the gauges and controls to be serviced from the front of the panel. In addition, most of the instrument panel electrical or heating and air conditioning components can be accessed without complete instrument panel removal. If necessary, the instrument panel can be removed from the vehicle as an assembly.

Removal of the instrument cluster bezel allows access to the instrument cluster, the heating and air conditioning controls, and the radio. Removal of the instrument cluster assembly allows access to the individual illumination and indicator lamp bulbs, and the instrument cluster wiring.

Removal of the steering column opening cover provides access to the steering column mounts, the steering column wiring, the junction block (removal of a snap-fit fuse access panel on the left end of the instrument panel allows access to the fuses and circuit breakers), the Central Timer Module (CTM), the Infinity speaker filter choke and relay unit, much of the instrument panel wiring, and the gear selector indicator cable (automatic transmission).

Removal of the glove box provides access to the passenger side airbag module, the glove box lamp and switch, the radio antenna coaxial cable, the heating and air conditioning vacuum harness connector, and additional instrument panel wiring.