General Description

The instrument panel and related parts form a rigid structure that encloses and supports many components on or near the passenger compartment side of the cowl. The top of the instrument panel is attached to the front of dash next to the base of the windshield near both outboard ends by bolts/screws, and at the center by a support bracket. The bottom of the instrument panel is attached to a stamped metal tie bar that adds to the rigidity of the structure. A sound insulator panel is attached to the support bracket and the cowl on the passenger side of the panel to conceal the components under the instrument panel- and provide a finished appearance.

The steering column is clamped in place at the left side of the instrument panel. Below and to both sides of the steering column is an instrument panel driver knee bolster. An impact-absorbing pad covers the top of the instrument panel. Trim covers and trim plates accent the appearance of the exposed rear face of the instrument panel.

The air conditioning module case is attached to the front of dash. Air ducts connect the case outlets to floor outlets, windshield defroster outlets side window defogger outlets and a high level outlet in the center of the instrument panel. A high level air outlet is provided at each end of the instrument panel. The air conditioning module and ducts are concealed within the instrument panel structure.

All Chevrolet and all Canadian (Pontiac and Chevrolet) vehicles are equipped with daytime running lamps. They have a headlamp automatic control ambient light sensor installed flush with the top surface of the instrument panel upper trim panel under the windshield defroster nozzle grille.

Vehicles equipped with the theft deterrent system have a security L.E.D. installed flush with the top surface of the instrument panel upper trim panel under the windshield defroster nozzle grille.
The instrument panel wiring harness is installed behind the instrument panel area.