DRL/dashboard/taillights

not trying to contredict you...but sometimes the fuse dosent even look blown but it is.

i would say it sounds like maybe the light sensor up on the dash is going bad but if you said you tried to turn them on manualy....thats pretty tricky. your gonna find GM didnt exxactly go all out on electrical work for this car lol

I am having the same problem with my 2002 Buick Centry Custom. But i found the blown fuse and replaced it. The second i turn on the ignitio, it blows out. The blown fuse for my Taillights & Lic. plate light. Why would this affect my dash, stereo, & ac/htr lights? Thank Kevin

Welcome to AF.

When the fuse for taillights and license blows what do the dash, radio and HVAC lights do? It is obvious you have a short someplace. More info may help us help you pinpoint the problem. Any other symptoms noted?

BTW - Click on link below to access your thread which was moved from Grand Prix to Century.

http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?p=4532184#post4532184

When I turn on the ignition all of my warning lights reset as usual. But my dash lights don't light up at all. I believe I have two problems going on here. I've been reading posts from other people and have noticed I am not the first person to have this Dash Light problem. I think it may have something to do with my Dimmer Switch.
As for my taillight & lic. plate lights, My local mechanic replaced a few bulbs about three weeks ago. Something he did may have created a short.
I just find it very coincidental that both problems occured so close together.
But you are the expert and I would still like your opinion and advise. Thank you for your help, Kevin Landes

The dimmer is a possibility. As you move the dimmer the output of the dimmer can be checked with a multitmeter for a varying 12 volts. The 12 volt input should also be checked and originates at the ignition switch and through a fuse. From the dimmer it feeds directly to the dash lighting. The problem is it will require some dash disassembly like removing the bezel to access the headlight/dimmer assembly.

The mechanic may have shorted a wire probably at the lamp sockets so it would be a good idea to check there. Especially if the problem was not there before he replaced the lamps. Pull the respective lamps at the tailights and license plate light, install new fuse and then see if the fuse blows. Good luck.