Last night when I started my Element, the dash lights were no longer worker and I soon realized neither were my parking lights, brake lights, turn signals, license plate light. I took the car to the dealer today and they said I need to replace the entire instrument cluster ($610 for parts/labor). I just got home and did a little more research online about what fuses do what on the Element and went out and checked fuses 2, 5 & 7 under the hood and all were blown. I put new ones in and all of my lights are now working. I also replaced the 7.5 amp fuse under the dash (also blown) and got my turn signals back. My question now is whether I should get a 2nd opinion before laying down $600+ bucks to replace the instrument cluster if something else electrical is to blame for blowing all 4 of those fuses. Any advice would be most appreciated.

I had my battery tested this AM at AutoZone and it tested fine and I replaced my alternator at 202K miles back in April 2012. The car now has 216K miles and runs great.