Same problem on my 2002 neon....apparently there is a sensor that will cut off all other gears until you bring it to the dealer....they can reset it there but I want to do it myself so I am still looking.
My 2004 Dodge Neon SE Automatic Transmission Won't Shift Out Of 1st Gear. Any Suggestions As To What Is Wrong?
You could have some bad speed sensors on the transmission, a little hard to get to (between radiator and transmission) but cheap.
Or
You might have problems with the transmission fluid. It is Way beyond CRITICAL that you only use the special ATF+4 transmission fluid. Do not let anyone put anything else in your transmission. Look here for more information: www.allpar.com
Or
You might have problems with the transmission fluid. It is Way beyond CRITICAL that you only use the special ATF+4 transmission fluid. Do not let anyone put anything else in your transmission. Look here for more information: www.allpar.com