The instrument panel assembly consists of a lower trim pad assembly (carrier) with a built-in knee bolster, an instrument cluster housing assembly and lower sound insulator panels. The carrier assembly mounts to the body of the vehicle at the outer ends, at the steering column support bracket and along the base of the windshield opening. The opening below the steering column in the instrument panel is closed out and reinforced by a bracket and filler trim. The sound insulators attach to the carrier and the vehicle body. The carrier assembly is the attaching base for the glove compartment, the instrument cluster including the Climate Control Center and the Driver Information Center. For appearance, the instrument panel covers the routing of major assemblies such as the heating and air conditioning components, electric controllers and wiring harnesses.