The alarm system on the RV8 needs watching. Unlike the system in, say, the Rover 800, there is no central locking system deactivated with a key, so if you lose the transmitter or it stops working, you can only deactivate with another one. So do remember to renew the batteries in the transmitter annually and keep a spare pair of batteries in the glove box just in case. You may even wish to lash out £45 for a spare transmitter and get it programmed for your car, but note it is only possible to programme one additional spare transmitter.

You may wonder why? Well each MG Dealer has a CD from which it can re-programme replacement or additional transmitters. First the dealer has to re-programme the equipment in the car and then it is necessary to re-programme your transmitter(s) to suit. Note only two transmitters can be programmed at any time - so that means either the original or a replacement plus one additional spare. But do note that if the transmitter fails away from the dealer, then the car has to be physically transported to the dealer to be re-programmed or even started!! So take care of your transmitter(s) and renew the batteries in good time!

Replacement alarm transmitters are available under part number YWX10007 despite reports from a member that his local Rover dealer had told him they were unavailable for the RV8. If you do get a replacement, then it will need to be reprogrammed in accordance with the procedure set out above.