by 
The Curious Bag
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No matter how good the rest of your car may be, you'd be flying blind without some sort information on speed, engine temperature and engine condition. Instrument panels today are far more versatile than they once were.
Purpose
The instrument panel serves as the information center for your car. It is connected to every sensor on the vehicle, often via its control computer.
Gauges
Most instrument panels contain a number of analog gauges that monitor speed, engine RPM (revolutions per minute), water temperature, oil pressure and electrical system voltage.
Warning Lights
Instrument panels contain a number of lights that will illuminate to notify the driver of a system malfunction. These may include a "Check Engine" light, service light, anti-lock brake light, temperature warning and oil pressure warning.
Digital Gauges
Many modern cars have integrated digital gauges that give the driver detailed information. This includes mileage, instant fuel mileage and average fuel mileage.
Multi-Function Displays
Many modern instrument panels also include multi-function displays that display GPS mapping information, night-vision and traction control activity, as well as performance information like turbo boost, lateral acceleration and horsepower.
Source:
Instrumentclusters.com: Instrument Clusters
Saitek.com: Aircraft Instrumentation
Faqs.org: Multifunction Display
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