The Nitro OBD2 chip tuning box claims to increase car performance and fuel efficiency by plugging into the OBD2 port. Online reviews are mixed, with some praising its effectiveness and others denouncing it as a scam. This article dives deep into the device’s inner workings to determine if Nitro OBD2 is fake or the real deal.
Analyzing the Nitro OBD2’s Claims
Nitro OBD2 promises to optimize engine performance by monitoring driving habits and reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU). This claim raises immediate concerns, as modifying ECU settings requires significant technical expertise and specialized equipment. A simple plug-and-play device achieving this seems improbable.
Dissecting the Device: Hardware Analysis
Opening the Nitro OBD2 reveals a basic circuit board with:
- Standard OBD2 connector pins
- Power circuit
- Push button
- Microchip
- Three LEDs
Notably absent is a CAN (Controller Area Network) transceiver, a crucial component for communicating with the car’s ECU via the CAN bus. This suggests the device lacks the ability to send or receive data necessary for reprogramming. The minimal hardware further reinforces doubts about its claimed functionality.
Image: Internal circuitry of the Nitro OBD2 device, showing a lack of crucial components.
Monitoring CAN Bus Activity
To confirm the hardware findings, we monitored CAN bus traffic with and without the Nitro OBD2 plugged in. Using a Raspberry Pi and a PiCAN2 shield, we recorded all CAN messages transmitted on a 2012 Suzuki Swift.
Image: CAN bus signals captured using a PicoScope, demonstrating normal vehicle communication.
The results were conclusive: no new messages appeared on the CAN bus when the Nitro OBD2 was connected. This confirms the device does not communicate with the ECU and cannot alter engine parameters. Even after driving for a considerable distance, no changes in CAN bus activity were observed.
Image: Monitoring CAN bus traffic with the Nitro OBD2 connected, showing no communication from the device.
Chip Deconstruction: Microcontroller Examination
Decapping the Nitro OBD2’s microchip revealed a standard microcontroller with RAM, Flash memory, and a CPU core. Crucially, it lacked the distinct circuitry of a CAN transceiver, further solidifying the conclusion that it cannot communicate on the CAN bus.
Image: Comparison of the decapped Nitro OBD2 chip and a standard CAN transceiver chip (TJA1050), highlighting the lack of CAN functionality in the Nitro OBD2.
Addressing Potential Counterarguments
While the evidence strongly suggests the Nitro OBD2 is ineffective, some might argue it requires a longer driving period to work. However, the absence of a CAN transceiver physically prevents it from interacting with the ECU, regardless of driving time. Claims of delayed effects are unsubstantiated.
Conclusion: Nitro OBD2 – Fake or a Tuning Revolution?
Our analysis conclusively reveals the Nitro OBD2 chip tuning box does not function as advertised. The lack of essential hardware, confirmed by CAN bus monitoring and chip analysis, proves it cannot communicate with the car’s ECU or modify engine performance.
Instead of investing in this dubious device, consider proven methods for improving fuel efficiency and performance, such as regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, and adopting efficient driving habits. Don’t fall for the Nitro OBD2 hype – it’s likely a fake.
