Are you looking for ways to boost your car’s performance with an OBD2 device? You may have encountered the Thorton Top Speed OBDII Cat Performance Chip Tuner. This article dives deep into its functionality, revealing whether it’s a legitimate performance enhancer or just another scam. We’ll analyze its claims, dissect its internal components, and compare it to known fraudulent devices like the Nitro OBD2.
Unmasking the Thorton Top Speed OBDII Cat Performance Chip
The Thorton Top Speed OBDII Cat Performance Chip boasts a sleek design and promises significant horsepower and fuel efficiency gains. However, a closer look reveals striking similarities to previously debunked performance chip scams. The packaging, instructions, and even the chip itself are nearly identical to the infamous SuperOBD and Nitro OBD2 scams, differing only in color and logo.
Dubious Claims and Suspicious Pricing
Thorton claims its chip “adjusts itself to your vehicle’s engine” and delivers up to 40HP gains. These claims are highly suspect, especially given the chip’s resemblance to known scams. Furthermore, Thorton’s website presents conflicting information, claiming the chip is both universal and requires specific vehicle information for ordering. The tiered pricing system, with “Level 1,” “Level 2,” and “Level 3” chips, mirrors the pricing structure of the Chipyourcar Thunderbolt scam, further raising red flags.
Internal Analysis: A Nitro OBD2 Clone
Disassembling the Thorton chip reveals a circuit board identical to the Nitro OBD2, using the same PIC16F59 microprocessor. This microprocessor lacks the memory capacity to store genuine vehicle maps, confirming its inability to deliver the promised performance enhancements. A simple online search reveals the same module available from Chinese suppliers for a mere $4.32, exposing the exorbitant markup and fraudulent nature of the Thorton chip.
Performance Testing and the Blink Test
Real-world testing confirms the Thorton chip’s ineffectiveness. After driving the recommended 125 miles, no discernible changes in performance or fuel economy were observed. A “blink test,” comparing the LED blink patterns of the Thorton chip and a known Nitro OBD2 scam, reveals identical flashing sequences, further solidifying their shared fraudulent origins.
Conclusion: Avoid the Thorton Top Speed OBD2 Scam
The Thorton Top Speed OBDII Cat Performance Chip is unequivocally a scam. Its design, internal components, performance results, and deceptive marketing tactics align with known fraudulent OBD2 performance enhancers. Don’t fall for its empty promises. If you’re looking for legitimate ways to improve your car’s performance, consult a qualified mechanic or invest in reputable performance modifications. Steer clear of this cheap imitation and save your money.
