Just Map It vs Nanocom: Which Is Better for TD5 Remapping and Diagnostics?
Both tools have their place, but they are not the same thing.
The simple answer is this: Nanocom is a very useful handheld diagnostic tool, while Just Map It is better suited for TD5 tuning, ECU level work, remote support and file handling.
At Empire Tuning, we work with both, but if the goal is TD5 remapping and proper remote tuning support, Just Map It is usually the better route.
What is Nanocom?
Nanocom is a handheld diagnostic tool commonly used on Land Rover models, including the TD5 Defender and Discovery 2.
It is popular because it is easy to keep in the vehicle, does not need a laptop and can be used for common diagnostic jobs.
For a TD5 owner, Nanocom can be useful for things like:
- Reading fault codes
- Clearing fault codes
- Viewing live data
- Checking sensor readings
- Injector coding
- General roadside fault finding
- Body Control Functions
- ABS Bleeding (Discovery 2, Defender Td4)
It is a great bit of kit, especially for owners who want something they can keep in the glovebox or workshop drawer.
What is Just Map It?
Just Map It is Empire Tuning’s TD5 tuning and diagnostic system.
It is designed around TD5 ECU work, file handling, diagnostics, live data logging and remote tuning support.
Just Map It runs on a Windows laptop or PC and connects to the vehicle using the supplied interface.
Depending on the ECU and setup, Just Map It can be used for:
- Reading ECU files
- Writing ECU files
- Installing custom remaps
- Remote tuning support
- Live data logging
- Fault code reading and clearing
- Injector coding
- Immobiliser related functions where suitable
- Dual map support
- ECU Recovery
The main advantage is that it gives us a much better route to support customers remotely, especially when map files, logs and future updates are involved, especially as this can recover bricked ECU’s where other tools cannot meaning you have the inconvenience of sending your ECU away
Which one is better for remapping?
For remapping, Just Map It is the better option.
The reason is simple. It is built around file reading, file writing, logging and remote support.
That means a customer can read the ECU, send us the required information, receive the correct file back and install it with support if needed.
It also gives a better route for future changes. If the vehicle spec changes later, such as an intercooler, exhaust, turbo or drivetrain change, the customer is not starting from scratch again.
Nanocom is still useful, but it is not the route we prefer for proper remote tuning support, Nanocom doesnt support Dual mapping either at the minute.
Which one is better for diagnostics?
This depends on what you want from the tool.
If you want a handheld device to quickly check faults, clear codes or look at live data, Nanocom is convenient.
If you want diagnostics linked into tuning support, logs, file changes and deeper ECU level work, Just Map It is the better option.
For example, if a customer has a running issue after modifications, Just Map It allows us to get useful logs and support the vehicle remotely in a more structured way. The tool data logs every sensor and even has an extended mod so you can look at the voltage references.
That is very different from just saying there are no fault codes present, If you want to talk to the BCM, SLABS or test the RF receiver on a Discovery 2 then the nanocom is the one you want.
Can I still use Nanocom after a Just Map It remap?
Yes.
Using Just Map It does not stop you using Nanocom.
A lot of customers still use Nanocom for quick checks and live data after the vehicle has been mapped.
The way we normally explain it is this:
- Use Just Map It for tuning, file work, logging and remote support
- Use Nanocom for quick handheld checks and general monitoring
They can both be useful, but they are not aimed at exactly the same job.
Why does Just Map It need a Windows laptop?
Just Map It is Windows based because it is doing more than basic handheld diagnostics.
It needs to handle ECU files, logs, communication and tuning related functions properly.
For some customers, using a laptop is slightly less convenient than a handheld tool. That is fair.
But for remote tuning and ECU support, the extra capability is worth it.
What about MSB and NNN ECUs?
ECU type matters on a TD5.
The later NNN ECU is generally easier to support for remapping and remote tuning.
The earlier MSB ECU can also be supported, but it may need to be upgraded first so it becomes OBD compliant.
Once an MSB ECU has been upgraded properly, future support becomes much easier and Just Map It becomes a far better option moving forward.
If you are not sure what ECU you have, send us a clear photo of the ECU label and we can usually tell you quickly.
Which tool is best for remote customers?
For remote customers, Just Map It is normally the better route. Because it can recover the ECU if it gets bricked
This is especially true if you are outside the UK or too far away to bring the vehicle to us.
With Just Map It, you can work with us remotely, send logs, read the ECU and install updates without having to keep removing and posting the ECU every time.
For customers who plan to keep developing their TD5 over time, that is a big advantage.
Which tool should you buy?
If you mainly want a handheld diagnostic tool to keep in the vehicle, Nanocom is a good option.
If you want TD5 remapping, ECU file support, remote tuning and future updates, Just Map It is the better route.
If you already own a Nanocom, that does not mean you have bought the wrong thing we can still offer you the remap with it, just important to follow the guide before any programming.
But if you are looking at tuning or proper remote support with Empire Tuning, we will normally point you towards Just Map It, the diagnostic capability is greater and has options such as cruise ratio fix, dual map etc
Common example
A common situation is a customer with a TD5 who already owns a Nanocom and wants a remap.
They can purchase our remap file for the Nanocom here NANOCOM Remap Request
Please note that any revisions with Nanocom after 7 days are chargeable due to the encoding fee from blackbox, get in touch for current prices.
Revisions with just map it are free
FAQ
Is Just Map It better than Nanocom?
For TD5 remapping, ECU file work and remote support, yes, Just Map It is usually the better option. For quick handheld diagnostics, Nanocom is the go to, also if you want to do diagnostics on body items such as BCM SLABS GEARBOX ETC
Can I still use Nanocom after fitting a Just Map It remap?
Yes. You can still use Nanocom for fault codes, live data and general monitoring after a Just Map It remap.
Does Just Map It need a laptop?
Yes. Just Map It runs on a Windows laptop or PC.
Can Nanocom install a TD5 remap?
Yes. Files can be bought from here NANOCOM Remap Request
Can Just Map It diagnose TD5 faults?
Yes. Just Map It can read and clear fault codes, log live data and help with remote diagnostic support.
Does Just Map It work with MSB ECUs?
Yes, but early MSB ECUs may need to be upgraded first so they become OBD compliant and suitable for proper future support. However you can still datalog, clear faults and test certain outputs without updating your ECU
Need help choosing between Just Map It and Nanocom?
If you are not sure which tool is right for your TD5, get in touch with Empire Tuning.
Let us know what vehicle you have, what ECU is fitted, what you want to do with it and whether you need remapping, diagnostics or remote support.
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