after installing a working cigarette lighter my dash, centre console and shifter lights don't work when i turn my headlights on i checked the fuse and surprise surprise the fuses had blown so i replaced it with another equal value fuse tried again and it blew instantly have checked the wiring to the lighter and can't see any issues with that so anyone know what else could be causing it?

Somethings obviously overloading the system,

Is there the correct fuse in place for the cig lighter under dash ? May be worth checking both boxes.

If they are present and correct maybe see if it needs grounding ?

Cluyching at straws here but worth a try

have checked all fuses and all are correct amp how would i go about seeing if it needs grounding?( i don't have a multimeter )

sounds like you have an earth somewhere - remove the lighter socket and just have the connector wires in place - see if it blows again, if not it is an issue with the socket - if so you need to check the wiring - you may have chafed some insulation causing a ground during installation

Do you have an aftermarket head unit or have any gauges been installed in the past ?

Somone could have tapped into the live and may be overloading everything

i've been very busy lately so sorry for not keeping updated i had my stereo fitted from day 1 and all lights etc worked fine until i installed the lighter so will take a look over the weekend and let you all know how i get on :)