The term 'Instrument Panel' is used to refer to the combination of a DASHBOARD, CONSOLE, and facia. The DASHBOARD is the main panel in the front of the vehicle, usually located directly behind the steering wheel, and is typically made up of several gauges and dials that provide information about the vehicle's performance. The CONSOLE is a secondary panel located between the driver and passenger seats, and is often used to control the vehicle's climate, audio, and navigation systems. Finally, the facia is the trim piece that surrounds the instrument panel, and is usually made of plastic or metal. Together, these three components make up the instrument panel, which provides the driver with all the necessary information to operate the vehicle safely and efficiently.