Jeep Cherokee

 Service Manual

Instrument panel systems » Description and operation
Instrument panel

DESCRIPTION

This instrument panel uses a full-width structural plastic foundation as its primary support. When the two primary molded plastic components of this structure are vibration welded together they provide superior instrument panel stiffness and integrity to help reduce buzzes, squeaks, and rattles even on the bumpiest roads.

This type of construction also provides improved energy absorption which, in conjunction with the dual airbag modules and seat belts, helps to improve occupant protection. This foundation structure also serves as the air duct for the heating and air conditioning system panel outlets, which greatly reduces the number of components used over conventional instrument panel construction.

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 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 steering column opening cover and knee blocker provides access to the steering column mounts, the steering column wiring, the headlamp switch, the electronic combination flasher, and much of the instrument panel wiring. Removal of the glove box provides access to the heating and air conditioning electrical and vacuum harnesses, the blower motor relay, the radio antenna coaxial cable, the lower passenger side airbag mounts, and additional instrument panel wiring.

Removal of the instrument panel center bezel allows access to the radio, the heating and air conditioning controls, the accessory switches, the cigar lighter, and the accessory power outlet. Removal of the instrument cluster bezel allows access to the instrument cluster. Removal of the cluster assembly allows access to the cluster illumination and indicator lamp bulbs, and more of the instrument panel wiring.

Removal of the instrument panel top cover allows access to the upper passenger side airbag mounts.

Instrument panel removal is required for service of most internal components of the heating and air conditioning system housing.

Instrument panel system

Instrument panel

Instrument cluster

Instrument panel cigar lighter

Cigar lighter relay

Instrument panel power outlet