1998 Dodge Neon Gauges

Please help, We took our Neon to repair shop and didn't get very far. When we drive down the road at any speed, our gauges drop to zero, that's all of them. Nothing happens to the car itself while we are driving. We don't lose speed, it doesn't jerk, make strange sounds, no odors, smells or shakes from the car. We could be going as slow as 10 mph to 65 mph and this happens. There are times when it comes back on while we are driving, and when this happens, the check engine light, oil light, and air bag and seat belt lights come on, acting as if we just turned the car on. Other times it just stays at zero. But never offends the cars performance. What on earth could this be and how can we explain to the mechanic what it is? Thanks so much!