Lighter socket troubleshooting

[maxmwill]

I just bought a 2003 Alero, and have been very happy with it, specifically 3 things that are wrong with it(after all, this is a 13 year old used car so it is bound to have a few or more than a few problems needing attention), the cruise control being intermittent, the dome light not working, and the lighter socket, where you plug in things that need 12 volts, such as a cell phone charger.

I was able to figure out the dome light squawk, and am waiting to try to tackle the cruise control until after I get the right manual to give me the start of a handle on this problem, so that leaves the lighter socket. It doesn't work. I even checked it with a volt meter, and it was cold. So, before I go nuts and try taking the whole dashboard apart, I ask if there is another way to diagnose and treat this condition.