Hey guys,

I recently bought a 2002 Lexus IS300 with 185k miles on it. It’s had some electrical work done, apparently it has an alarm and/or remote start system, plus an aftermarket radio. I discovered the stock radio is still in the trunk, connected via a harness with wire connectors. It turns on and everything. I’m not sure how that ties in to everything else, why.

2 days ago, after starting my car, I realized my gauge cluster lights went out, checked the fuse under the drivers side fuse box, the 10A fuse that was in the spot of the 7.5A fuse labeled PANEL was out. I replaced it with a 7.5A fuse and fixed the problem for a day, until it went out again last night. Interior dash lights don’t work, but only the backlighting, everything else works, needles and all. The owner's manual says this about the fuse:

Everything else on the fuse works even with it blown and removed, my cigarette lighter, seat heater, my transmission sure as hell, as well as , my traction control. I didn't even know I had an ashtray light, so idk.

Is this a solid case of take it to mechanic or alarm\stereo systems specialist due to the potential mess of wiring? Or is there a way to solve it at home? Thanks.

 

Sounds like it is a wiring problem. I would go over the wiring of the aftermarket stuff and put it back to factory. Then add back what you want the right way.