I've owned my 2000 D2 since new. The key fobs need replacement, and I need to be able to power bleed the brake system and test the wheel sensors. I've owned an Autel code reader for a while now, and it has been really useful in diagnostics, but it does not have the capability to perform these other tasks.

From what I've read, Nanocom is what most people use. It's not cheap, but if I can use it to program new OEM keys and do the power bleed and wheel sensor tests, it seems like it would end up costing less than having the dealer do these things.

I know there are workarounds for the power bleed, but my mechanic friend doesn't have experience with working on ABS units, and I'd rather spend the money than worry about whether we would be getting the workaround done right.

So, I'd appreciate feedback as to your experience with Nanocom, whether I can in fact expect to use it to get these things done with minimal grief/anxiety, whether OEM key fobs are still available, whether there are additional useful things it can do, etc.

 

What exactly do you need to replace the key fobs for? Are they no longer working? Nanocom is expensive AF, it's worth seeing if you can borrow one or rent one if it's just a one-time thing.

You can get Foxwell readers like this one can do the ABS bleed and ABS wheel sensors for less than $150. People speak about the Nanocom like it's god's gift, but devices like those budget readers can do most of what you need for 1/5 of the price.

 

I haven't regretted getting my Nanocom.
I had no fobs for my D2 when I got it. I got 2 fobs from a wrecker and easily programmed the BCU to accept them with my Nanocom. Also easy to bleed the ABS with it.

 

Buttons are broken on the key fobs and the keys are loose in the plastic and have come out before multiple times (fortunately I found them). They do need to be replaced before I'm stuck somewhere without a working key.

I'm not one to spend money for its own sake. It's a number of things that I've put off for a long time that I want finally to get fixed, and I'm looking for a cost effective way to get them done.

Much appreciated for the recommendation!

 

Nanocom is the ultimate diagnostic tool for these trucks. It will do everything and many board members use them. I don't have one but use a Scangauge and iCarsoft 930 for ABS diagnostics. ABS can be activated without Nanocom. Plenty of write ups on that. As for you key fob issue......Are the rubber buttons gone? Can you remove the electronic unit from the case and use the buttons or is the electronic unit damaged? You can purchase a new case at AB or online. Simply put the electronic unit in the case and your key either with the metal pin that comes with it or epoxy it in. I just replace an old key that had the buttons ripped off.

 

Unless you can borrow a Nanocom from someone in your hometown (you could borrow mine if you were in Portland OR, but I won’t ship it) -- it’s worth the expense. If you need keys, it’s basically the only way. Yes, OEM key fobs are avail, and I’d recommend only using the OEM Valeo or genuine LR ones, I’ve had too much bull**** and grief with the aftermarket ones not working, intermittently working, or having a very short service life leaving me locked out of Discos.

 

Nanocom is invaluable. It's been a few years but another member posted up a thread for diy cheap $80 Chinese two way obd dondle key programming. I bit the bullet based on his reviews and got new key blanks from eBay/Amazon. Now have a working key fob.

I have a foxwell for abs issues but it would also bleed brakes if needed. Much cheaper than nanocom, not as good.

 

Rental available here: https://extinctmotorsports.com/nanoc...eek-rental-55/

 

Having had my D2 for while but only recently got the Nanocom I have to agree that it's invaluable. There isn't an OBD tool out there for 1/5th the price of the Nanocom that's remotely comparable. It's worth the expense and from what I've seen (having tried but eventually failed to buy one second hand) they hold their value. It's not like the tech in the D2 is ever going to render them obsolete!

 

Much appreciated. I’m curious as to specifically what other things you use it for, besides the ABS bleed and programming keys.