automatic transmission won't engage; acts like its in neutral when it's in gear.

will a automatic transmission solenoid make it do that

If you request a repair understand you do so at your own risk! You pay weather it works or not. So no suggestion from me. Other than let the shop tell you what is needed. They have the vehicle and know what's wrong, nobody else does. That's just how it is. If they put these parts in it will be with NO warranty even if it doesn't work. The only way they can stand behind it is to rebuild or replace it. However i understand your side of this too. Stuff is just expensive too expensive!!

These cars are nortorius for bad transmissions. The only safe way to go is with a rebuilt transmission with a warranty. This may exceed value of car. I would have to see the car to give my opnion.