First would to check the fuse I assume you checked that, them check under the dash to see if the plug is in the back of the cluster.
If you work on the cluster while in the driver's seat make sure you ! disarm ! the air bag system. Never work near the air bag as it can cause serious injury of even kill you.
On a 1999 GEO Tracker, a bad fuse can cause the headlights and dash lights to blink. A bad voltage regulator or alternator can also cause lights to blink and flicker.
The 1996 GEO Tracker OBD 2 port is on driver side dash next to center console
either a fuse for dash or the light switch
Dash lights and tail lights are on the same fuse.
Parking/tail/dash fuse
Blinking lights on dash and exterior lights may indicate a bad ground wire or a faulty headlight switch. Both would cause those problems.
Driver side under dash near hood release there is a fuse block.
These are on the same fuse. Check for a blown fuse.
Probably the Tail light fuse is blown. You also lose dash lights when this fuse blows also.
Try chamging the bulb, and if that doesnt solve your problem, check all the wiring.
Should be the same circuit for parking/tail/dash lights
warning lights mean something is wrong and needs attention by a mechanic