I've checked the oil and tranny fluid. I'm worried because when the 'idiot' lights come on it's usually too late to fix the problem. Can anyone tell me where to start troubleshooting?

Thoughts:

. Check the power steering system--fluid level, pump, rack & pinion, and belt. Change fluid every 50,000 miles (likely Mercon ATF).

If the problem is not with the power steering system:

. Remove and fully charge the battery. Most auto parts stores will do this for free.

. Check for codes with a code reader or scan tool.

. Check all under hood and under dash fuses with a test light or multimeter.

Check that you haven't inadvertently selected the transmission shift range into "Power" mode rather than "Normal"
There's often a button on the shifter handle that gets bumped and turns that light on.