Any electronic shift AT trans experts in here?

Google it for AI, you will get information that's out in the web including factory diagnostics, we tried this at work when AI was available, and it came up with information we already knew to be factory information for diagnostic procedures.
Back to your question when you say no 1st gear, I assume it's moving forward in another gear as if in fail safe mode? do you have a scan tool to monitor what solenoids are on/off?
I could be wrong but I interpreted it as a car he saw an ad for. I guess he could bring a scan tool if he goes and looks at it though, just might be awkward diagnosing a strangers car, ha.