
No fuel or dead battery or incorrect gear position. Below is an introduction to automatic transmission gears: Below is extended information on the differences between manual and automatic transmissions: Learning period: Manual transmission cars are more complex than automatic ones, so the learning period differs. Typically, learning to drive a manual transmission car takes at least one month longer than an automatic, and due to the greater difficulty of manual transmission, the pass rate for driving license tests is also lower. Obtaining a driver's license: The manual transmission license is classified as C1, while the automatic transmission license is C2. Holders of an automatic transmission license cannot drive manual transmission cars, but holders of a manual transmission license can drive automatic transmission cars. Cost: Because manual transmission is more difficult to learn and has a lower pass rate, its cost is generally cheaper than that of automatic transmission. Usually, the cost of learning automatic transmission is more expensive.

Last time I drove a Ford Mondeo, I also encountered the rotary gear shift not engaging properly. It's likely due to a mechanical jam—the rotary dial might have accumulated dust or suffered from poor lubrication, making it hard to turn. On the electronic side, if the brake isn't fully pressed or the brake light switch malfunctions, it can trigger the safety lock. Ford's design includes an interlock mechanism, so the brake pedal and wiring harness need inspection. Battery issues could also be the culprit—low voltage affects the entire shifting system. I recommend first checking for loose battery terminals and trying to restart the vehicle—turn it off, wait a few minutes, then start again. If the problem persists, the gear shift motor might be burnt out, requiring part replacement. To prevent such issues, avoid damp environments during regular use, minimize dust buildup, and clean the rotary knob interface periodically. If this happens, avoid forcing the mechanism—park safely and seek professional repair.

When I was driving a Ford Mondeo, the rotary gear shift suddenly wouldn't engage, which really worried me, especially since I had my family with me. Common causes include failure of the brake interlock system—it won't let you shift if the brake isn't pressed, so check if the brake light switch is working or if the wiring is broken. Issues with the electronic shift module are also quite common; you might need to reset the system by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for a few minutes and then reconnecting it. Additionally, if the car battery is old and the voltage is unstable, I recommend measuring the battery charge or using jumper cables for assistance. There could also be a software bug in the control unit; sometimes Ford vehicles require a program update, so scanning for fault codes at an authorized service center can help diagnose the issue. Safety first—if you can't shift, pull over, turn on the hazard lights, and get it repaired as soon as possible to avoid stalling on the road.

My friend's Mondeo can't engage the rotary gear shift, most likely due to electronic system malfunction. Battery drain is the primary cause, as insufficient voltage fails to activate the gear shift mechanism. First, try a simple reset: turn off the engine and restart after a while. The gear lock may not be released; check if the brake is fully depressed or if there's any foreign object stuck in the rotary knob. Sensor issues are also common, such as false signals from position sensors causing system lockups. Ford models often require software updates, and diagnosing through the OBD interface can resolve minor faults. Buying a code reader yourself can save money, but visit a 4S shop for hardware issues when necessary. Don't overlook daily maintenance like cleaning electrical connectors to prevent moisture and dirt buildup. Don't rush; troubleshoot step by step.


