Oldsmobile/Buick: Tail light malfunction, dashboard lights, blown fuse

Question
I have an Olds Achieve 1995.  I am having trouble with the tail lights.  I have checked and changed the bulbs and the fuses and they all seem to be functioning.  Also, the dash lights are not working.  Is there anything else I can check or does it sound like I need to have it checked by a professional?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hi Jo,
Troubleshooting electrical problems perhaps is the most difficult on a car. The reason is there are many variables. Since you have checked all likely areas and still no tailights leads me to believe that you have a blown fuse link which is within the wiring between the fuse box and a specific component. The difficult problem is which one. Since you have no dashboard lights at least gives a better idea of the area to look. The bad part is why the fuse link blew in the first place. A professional is the only way to be sure. These is some sort of major short. Over time it can creep up and damage other area's and accessories. Hope this helps! Ray