Early MGF (1996) key fob not working

Ever since I've had my F the second fob did not work. Not a wise thing really. Much earlier I replaced the battery but without success. However, just today I visited
http://www.remotekey.co.uk/cars/MG/mgf-mgtf/faq.asp
and followed their advice of
"Open the key fob
Remove the battery
Press any button 10 ten times, and the same with the other button
Refit the battery or a new battery
Unlock the vehicle with the key in the drivers door lock, do not open the door
Press the right hand button lock button (the button with the padlock symbol or the dimpled button) on the key fob 4 to 8 times".
Lo and behold it worked.
By the way, holding the plipper under the chin while operating the lock or unlock button (the so-called Lucas position) really does work at quite a long range.
:clap:

Hi and welcome

Pleased it's sorted. Often the problem arises with the spare fob as the alarm has a rolling code which rolls with the main fob but doesn't with the unused spare fob.

James

:welcome: to the forum.

I thought that was the normal way of changing a battery in the Lucas fob, battery out , discharge the fob, new battery in, and press buttons to8 times to re-sync.

Using the Lucas position make your body/frame (YOU) into an aerial and a larger transmitter.

You can unwind the aerial in the centre console to get better reception.

Thanks David and welcome again.

I've added this info to my popular 'keyfob battery change movie' on youtube. :broon:



Hopefully, someone will find it helpful at some point.

Hi All

I’ve just bought a 2001 MGF and have a couple of issues already. 
The fob is being temperamental so I have checked the battery etc. and that’s okay. The rubbers on the buttons are pretty worn so want to buy a new key fob. It’s a Lucas 3txa. I’ve looked on line and there are some but advertised as Land Rover ones. Do they do the same job as it’s just the fob casing and buttons I need?
Also my glove compartment lock is loose. It looks but just falls out when you open it! Any good places to get a new one?
thanks all

Hi. There are loads of sites on Fleabay that sell the case with rubber  buttons and they are cheap enough but if it's the internals of the fob that are playing up you may need to give Technozen a call as he is a wizard with both types of fob .
John 
 

Hi and welcome to the forum

If you get another fob you will need to program it to your car.

You can buy new replacement case for your existing fob.

www.technozen-electronics.co.uk has lots of useful info.

James

Thanks both. It just seems to be the rubber pads on the fob. The battery is ok and I have adjusted the rubber pads on the fob so it’s working but they are pretty worn.

If you are local to me (near Gatwick) I can program Lucas fobs for you, or anyone else.