This article for MGF keys & cutting is for you if you only have one key for your MGF. If you only have one key fob then take a look at the MGF Key Fob Replacement article. The actual key does not operate the alarm or engine immobilizer – that’s all within the fob. The only exception would be the Emergency Key Access (EKA) code and procedure. The engine immobilizer can be disabled with the key and EKA. See the separate article EKA – MGF Emergency Key Access for the details.
Background #
As already mentioned, the actual physical key doesn’t control the locking/alarm systems or the engine immobilizer. It does not have a chip in it. So, you don’t need a specific key blank. You don’t have to have one of the original types with the black plastic piece and MG logo. A plain key blank also works to create a duplicate/spare key to operate the boot (trunk) and door locks along with the ignition.
Key Blank Choices #
So there are two main choices available.
Genuine MG Rover – CWE100580 #
To be honest these are nice and I prefer them. The original MG Rover key blank is part number CWE100580. These are available from various online sources just search for the part number or “MGF Key Blank” and you’ll find them from online sites, typically in the UK. For example, Rimmer Bros, MGFnTFBITZ and MGOC Spares & Accessories.
Generic Key Blanks #
These are typically more widely available in the UK. However, these also available in the USA. Not all key blank sales locations may have them but if you ask them to look for a Rover/Landrover or even a Honda blank, they should be able to find one. The generic blanks will typically have an “RV4” designation.
MGF Key Cutting #
Hopefully this won’t be a surprise – forget going to any location that uses a computerized machine! You need to locate an old fashioned key cutting service that uses the original key as a template. Typically these machines use the original on one side while cutting the blank on the other side. Even if you do find such a location, be sure to take the car there. You must test the duplicate key(s) after having them cut.
Just because a location has such a machine there is still skill required to get this right. When I came across the Canada border into Port Huron, after getting new tires installed I found a great hardware store. Gill-Roys on Port Huron Ave. They were able to find a suitable blank and successfully cut the key off my original one. It successfully opened the boot. However, I was too scared to test it in the ignition. I was paranoid about leaving my original key/fob and locking it in the boot. So this gave me piece of mind.
After getting a genuine MG Rover blank I did a search and found a local True Value store. They seemed to have the right type of cutting machine and someone old enough to know how to use it. I did experience some difficulties. After 2 or 3 tries the original MG Rover blank was working correctly in both orientation for both boot and ignition. I decided to also have another RV4 generic blank done. This one I somewhat gave up on as after cutting this several times it would only work in one orientation.
So, there you have it, a guide to MGF keys & cutting of them.
Other Materials #
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