This '97 model has an electronically controlled transmission and it has
a "2nd gear limp home mode". That's where your car is now.

My '97 (gas version) has a red cap on its transmission filler that I've
never opened - if there's a dip stick attached I'd at least try to check
the fluid level, also look at the transmission for leaks and pan damage.

Otherwise, you're at the mercy of the stealer - suggest you ask for a
"Diagnosis and repair estimate" ONLY and then decide the next step.

Make them come up with a reason for the problem and a cost to fix that
problem.

We had that problem when we first bought the car. It won't shift past the
first unless the engine and tranny was hot.... which is like 10 minutes of
driving.

The fix was the valve body... get someone to rebuild that valve body or swap
it out. That lying stealership... people prey on people who has no idea...