Lexus Repair: electrical problems rx300, fuse blows, intermitently

Question
I have experienced some problems with my '99 rx300.  Dome light works intermitently and radio lights and gear shiftlight fuse blows out.  Dealer says I need a new door acuator to fix dome light at around $700.  They say to diagnose electrical problem they need about 2 hours time (take out radio etc.) for about 175.00 to find out whats going on.  I want to sell this car now!  Any clue what is going on?  

Answer
Julie,

Thanks for the questions.

With regard to the door lock actuator causing the dome light to only work intermittently, this sounds like a very likely explanation.  That is, as long as the wiring for the actuator has been inspected thoroughly, and the problem only happens when one particular door is used.

With regard to the fuse blowing for the center panel lights, you should check the ashtray light at the front of the sliding center console and see if it works.  

If this ashtray light is also inoperative, then the most likely cause is an intermittent short to ground in the wiring harness inside the sliding center console.  Specifically, the technician should check the power wire for the center console ashtray light.

Hope that helps.

Leonard