head unit
English
Noun
head unit (plural head units)
- (automotive) The interface and front fascia of an car audio system, entertainment or infotainment unit.
- (automotive) By extension, the entire dash unit of a car audio, entertainment or infotainment system.
- (automotive) By restriction, the in-dash control box, minus the dash-mounted interaction screen.
Usage notes
Removable head units originally referred to removable interfaces and fascias, which indicated the presence of aftermarket premium audio systems, and removal of such would remove motivation for thieves to break in and steal the car stereo (and expensive CD player). Later, entire control boxes with fascias could be removed.