Introduction and Quick Overview:
Welcome to an in-depth review of the Bootmod3 (BM3) OBD2 ENET CANBUS enabled WiFi adapter, specifically the V3 version. If you’re running Bootmod3 on your car or exploring OBD2 adapters for coding apps like Protool, you’re in the right place. We’ll delve into why this OBD2 adapter is essential and why it might just be the best OBD2 Bluetooth adapter alternative available today, despite utilizing superior WiFi technology. Let’s dive into the detailed review and see why this adapter stands out in a crowded market.
Disclaimer:
Damage/Injury Disclaimer: Any technical advice, coding instructions, installation guides, or product demonstrations within this review are followed at your own risk. I am not liable for personal injuries, harm to others, damage to your vehicle, or property damage resulting from actions taken based on this review.
Monetary Disclaimer: I do not receive any commission, profit, or financial gain from the sale of the Bootmod3 WiFi adapter. This review is based on product analysis and user experience.
Image Credits:
Images and videos used in this review belong to their respective owners, who are credited below each visual. They are used solely for illustrative purposes in this review. If you are an image owner and wish for your content to be removed, please contact me via private message. Thank you to all image owners for making this review more visually informative.
Review Disclaimer:
I want to express my gratitude to the proTUNING Freaks/Bootmod3 team for their partial sponsorship of this review. Despite this sponsorship, this review aims to remain as objective as possible. It’s important to note that I initiated the sponsorship request, reflecting my genuine belief in this WiFi adapter’s superior quality and its suitability for my own vehicle. I currently use this adapter for coding, flashing, and data logging with Bootmod3 and am considering extending its use to ISTA via wireless connectivity.
Let’s begin by clarifying some fundamental terms related to the BMW OBD2 system to ensure we’re all on the same page before we proceed with the detailed assessment.
What is “OBD2”?
Credit: confusion https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…07&postcount=2
Let’s start with “OBD2.” OBD2 stands for On-Board Diagnostics 2, referring to the trapezoidal port found in every car manufactured after 1996. This port became mandatory in the USA for all automakers starting that year. The OBD2 port provides access to your car’s Electronic Control Units (ECUs). Modern vehicles often contain multiple ECUs such as the engine control unit (DME in BMWs), differential control unit (GHAS), and front electronics module. This port allows you to read fault codes from these ECUs. Standardized codes, applicable across all vehicles, are defined by SAE J1979. Wikipedia explains, “The SAE J1979 standard defines a method for requesting various diagnostic data and a list of standard parameters that might be available from the ECU. The various parameters that are available are addressed by ‘parameter identification numbers’ or PIDs” (Credit Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On-boa…om%20the%20ECU.).
Essentially, every car provides basic diagnostic information through the OBD2 port, accessible even with inexpensive OBD2 scanners from platforms like Amazon. However, these generic codes are often insufficient for in-depth BMW diagnostics and are mainly useful for emissions testing. BMW utilizes proprietary error codes beyond the OBD2 standards. Accessing these BMW-specific, more detailed, and useful error codes requires specialized BMW code reading software like ISTA or Protool with a diagnostic license. Furthermore, communication with BMW ECUs and these software tools necessitates the ENET protocol. Generic OBD2 adapters are not compatible. To establish this communication, you need an adapter like the BM3 WIFI adapter or a standard ENET cable.
The OBD2 port’s capabilities extend beyond diagnostics. It’s also used for software updates (ISTEP versions), vehicle coding, and even performance tuning via software like Bootmod3. These advanced functions require an OBD2 adapter capable of communicating via BMW’s ENET protocol. The BM3 WiFi adapter excels in this area, offering convenient and essential features that we will explore in more detail.
What are “CANBUS” and “FLEXRAY”?
Credit: Autodata training, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/cbwvXO3Y9kI/maxresdefault.jpg
Let’s briefly discuss “CANBUS” and “FLEXRAY.” CANBUS is an acronym for Controller Area Network (CAN) BUS, a communication network within a vehicle that enables interconnected computers to communicate. Think of CANBUS as a computer network or a “highway” linking all electronic components and computers in a car, facilitating data exchange between these devices.
FlexRay is similar to CANBUS, serving as a network connecting devices in a car. However, it’s a significantly faster protocol, providing more reliable data transfer compared to CANBUS. BMW F series and newer models utilize FlexRay, capitalizing on its faster data speeds.
Note: Some devices might not directly connect to the CANBUS/FlexRay network but may connect through a module that is networked. Therefore, direct connection to CANBUS/FlexRay isn’t always the case for every component.
Note: Modules on the FlexRay/CANBUS network can access all data transmitted across the network, simplifying the integration of new modules like flex-fuel sensors.
Why are these communication protocols crucial? A high-quality, fast OBD2 adapter supporting CANBUS and FlexRay, like the BM3 adapter, leverages these faster protocols to transmit substantial data volumes through the OBD2 port every second. This capability enables exceptionally fast data logging, allowing for the monitoring of numerous channels at high sampling rates. This provides a clearer, more detailed view of your car’s operation, reducing the likelihood of missing critical events like timing pulls, knock occurrences, or boost spikes compared to slower logging devices. Faster adapters also significantly reduce flashing times. Initial tuning or flashing large custom ROMs like BM3’s flex-fuel ROM becomes quicker, often eliminating the need for a battery charger during the process, assuming a healthy battery. Furthermore, a faster OBD2 adapter enhances coding sessions, speeding up page loading in apps like Bimmercode and Protool and accelerating the application of coding changes. For example, with a slower Vgate iCar Pro Bluetooth adapter, loading an ECU page in Bimmercode could take about a minute, and applying changes another minute. The BM3 adapter reduces this to approximately one second for each operation. These are compelling reasons to opt for a faster OBD2 adapter.
Moreover, a CANBUS/FlexRay-enabled adapter like the BM3 adapter grants access to all ECUs in modern BMWs via these networks. This is a capability absent in generic OBD2 adapters. It allows flashing and coding of every ECU in F and G series BMWs, including the transmission in Gen 2 B58 engines and Toyota Supras, without needing additional DCAN cables or wireless adapters.
”What is ENET”?
Credit: https://www.amazon.ca/OHP-Ethernet-D…/dp/B07V3C47YD
In simple terms, ENET is BMW’s chosen communication protocol for external ECU interaction. It’s essentially an Ethernet cable with an OBD2 connector, facilitating communication via standard internet protocols. More technically, it involves an application layer (like ISTA), a transport layer (typically TCP over ENET), a network layer (IPV4), and a link layer (Ethernet). The key advantage of ENET is its high data transfer speed and fidelity, essential for fully utilizing the BMW FlexRay network.
The BM3 adapter supports the ENET protocol, ensuring seamless communication with F series and newer BMW generations, including the BMW-derived Toyota Supra. Further reading on ENET and BMW can be found here: https://standards.ieee.org/wp-conten…hitectures.pdf
With these foundational terms clarified, let’s focus specifically on the BM3 adapter and my personal experiences with it.
Purchasing + Shipping Experience:
Next, let’s discuss the purchasing experience of acquiring the BM3 WiFi adapter directly from Protuning Freaks/BM3. This process highlights their exceptional customer service framework.
Crest: PCMag https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/shopify
Purchasing directly from BM3’s website was seamless. The website is modern, fast, and well-designed. Payment processing is powered by Shopify, a widely trusted platform used by major companies. This ensured a hassle-free payment experience with various options like PayPal and credit cards, and even compatibility with PO Boxes. BM3’s choice of top-tier software extends beyond payment processing, as we’ll see. Overall, the purchasing experience from BM3’s website was excellent.
Credit: TheAmazingBrentWood https://theamazingbrentwood.com/wp-c…0424463738.png
Regarding shipping, residing in an area prone to package theft, I requested shipment to my PO Box via Canada Post standard shipping, expecting 8-9 days for delivery from BM3 HQ (both BM3 and I are in Canada). I placed my order on Wednesday, April 19th, at 4:12 AM. Realizing a shipping address error four minutes later, I emailed BM3 support with “URGENT” in the subject, hoping for a timely address correction before dispatch. To my surprise, at 8:55 AM, I received confirmation that my order was processed and the address corrected. Within approximately 4 hours of ordering, the adapter was packaged, address corrected, shipping label created, and ready for Canada Post pickup. This level of responsiveness and shipping speed is remarkable. Only VTT rivals BM3 in shipping efficiency.
This exceptional service is attributed to BM3’s dedication to continuous improvement, leveraging cutting-edge software to optimize workflow and ensure seamless communication. Instead of standard email management, BM3 employs Atlassian’s JIRA software for customer service and development. JIRA is used by tech giants like Twitter, Lyft, Reddit, and Pinterest for their workflow management.
Credit: Atlassian https://www.atlassian.com/software/jira
JIRA allows customers to create support tickets accessible to the entire support team, from general support to the owner, Dzenan. This ensures queries reach the right personnel without delays from email forwarding. Tickets remain open until resolution, minimizing missed messages. This system efficiently handles high volumes of requests and facilitates future team scalability, improving response times. JIRA also enhances inter-team collaboration, aiding development teams in planning features, managing work plans, and collaborating on product development, leading to better code and faster product cycles.
BM3’s commitment to utilizing premium tools, despite their cost, demonstrates their dedication to excellence. This dedication positions BM3 as a leading platform for BMW tuning, evidenced by their early release of GEN 2 B58 race ROM features, surpassing competitors like MHD and ECUTEK in capability.
Returning to my shipping experience, after address correction, the package arrived at my PO Box on April 25th at 1:22 PM, just 6 days including a weekend. Even with standard shipping, delivery was swift. Packaging was adequate, with the OBD2 adapter in a small cardboard box cushioned with packing peanuts and bubble wrap. My only suggestion would be to reduce internal movement during shipping, perhaps with a smaller box or more tightly packed cushioning. Otherwise, packaging was satisfactory and the adapter arrived in perfect condition.
Next, we’ll examine the features of the BM3 WIFI adapter itself.
Overview:
Let’s examine the BM3 adapter in detail.
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87Source
These images offer a comprehensive view of the BM3 adapter, which has limited visual documentation online at the time of this review.
The first image shows the adapter’s back with a raised BM3 logo and a tapered bottom section. The entire case is made of translucent plastic when held to light.
The second image, a side view, clearly shows the adapter’s tapered end, designed to enhance foot clearance in the driver’s footwell, a point we’ll revisit.
The third image presents the adapter’s front, featuring a vent for internal components and a toggle switch at the top right. This switch controls the adapter’s power, independent of its sleep mode. Toggling left turns it on, right turns it off, useful for manually powering down the adapter, especially for V2A versions without sleep mode, to prevent battery drain and alarm triggers. The switch’s placement on the front side, however, is less accessible in most LHD vehicles as it faces the trim panels. Relocating the switch to the bottom or back might improve accessibility, especially for RHD vehicles where the OBD2 port is typically on the lower right. A rectangular indent at the bottom likely serves as a label area.
The fourth image shows the OBD2 connector, which fits snugly and aligns well with the car’s OBD2 port.
Dimensions:
The dimensions of OBD2 adapters are crucial, particularly because of their proximity to the dead pedal in LHD cars. This placement makes them prone to accidental kicks, especially in manual transmission cars. I’ve experienced this frequently with larger adapters like my old MHD ENET WiFi adapter, where accidental kicks would disconnect the adapter from the OBD2 port, often at inconvenient times like traffic lights. Reseating the adapter while driving proved challenging, often requiring multiple attempts and specific angles to restore power.
Severe kicks can even damage the OBD2 port itself, as illustrated below:
Credit: N52 E90 https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1364965
Therefore, a smaller adapter is preferable to minimize accidental kicks and potential port damage. The BM3 WiFi adapter addresses this by being significantly thinner and shorter than many competitors, including my previous MHD adapter.
Here are dimension measurements using digital calipers:
Credit: F87source
The BM3 adapter is 44.68 mm wide.
Credit F87source
The BM3 adapter is 69.51 mm tall.
Credit: F87source
The BM3 adapter is 20.20 mm thick at its thickest point.
Beyond size, the tapered design further enhances foot clearance:
Credit: F87source
The BM3 adapter is 14.64 mm thick at its tapered section.
The compact size and tapered shape of the BM3 adapter maximize foot clearance and minimize the chance of accidental kicks. In my preliminary testing, simulating manual driving with the adapter plugged in, the reduced size noticeably increased ankle rotation and foot movement space before contacting the adapter. This design significantly reduces, if not eliminates, the kicking issue, a welcome improvement.
Here are images showing the adapter plugged into my F87 M2:
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
Credit: F87source
As shown, the adapter is slim and sits close to the trim, making it less intrusive than larger adapters. A faint orange light is visible through the casing when powered on.
WIFI Connectivity:
The BM3 adapter uses WIFI for wireless communication, specifically 2.4 GHz WiFi, chosen for broad compatibility with older devices lacking 5 GHz support.
Before discussing WIFI advantages, let’s note the default WIFI hotspot credentials: SSID “BM3-NET” and password “bootmod3,” conveniently printed inside the box lid.
Credit:F87source
Now, let’s explore the benefits of WIFI over Bluetooth for OBD2 adapters:
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Speed: Bluetooth 5 offers up to 2 Mbps data transfer, while 2.4 GHz WIFI supports up to 300 Mbps (BM3 adapter settings show a link speed of 72 Mbps). WIFI’s significantly faster data rates lead to quicker flashing times. This adapter outpaces most competitors in speed, likely matched only by the MHD universal WIFI adapter.
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Latency: WIFI generally has lower latency than Bluetooth, especially at higher speeds. Lower latency means less delay between data read from the OBD2 port and received by your connected device. For real-time gauges, lower latency reduces stutter and lag, making RPM gauges and other displays more responsive.
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Range: WIFI offers 2-3 times the range of Bluetooth. This extended range allows for car coding and diagnostics (using ISTA) from a nearby workbench or even inside your house, rather than being confined to the car’s cabin. I’ve coded my car from about 15 meters away indoors, through walls, with 50% WIFI signal strength. WIFI’s range provides flexibility in working on your car from various locations.
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Transmission Fidelity: Bluetooth uses a “best effort” transmission, lacking built-in retransmission or packet acknowledgment. WIFI, however, includes retransmission and acknowledgment, providing superior data fidelity out of the box.
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Encryption: WIFI employs significantly stronger encryption than Bluetooth, which sometimes lacks encryption entirely. Robust encryption is critical for security. Without it, hackers could exploit the wireless connection to access the car’s CANBUS/FlexRay network, especially concerning if the adapter is left plugged in. This could lead to malicious activities, most notably key cloning via the OBD2 port, a common method of BMW theft. Unencrypted wireless OBD2 adapters can be a security risk. News articles and videos detail BMW theft via OBD2 exploits:
https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…d.php?t=688307
https://www.forbes.com/sites/adriank…h=4f4f39905a3d
Even with strong WIFI encryption, weak or default passwords negate security benefits. The BM3 adapter’s default password, while documented, could be a general concern if widely known. However, Dzenan from BM3 has confirmed that a future update will enable users to change the WIFI password, addressing this potential vulnerability and enhancing security—a proactive step unmatched by many competitors. BM3’s commitment to security is commendable.
Updatable Firmware:
The BM3 WIFI OBD2 adapter’s firmware is updateable via the BM3 app. This feature ensures the adapter remains future-proof, allowing for new features and improvements to be added without requiring hardware replacement. For instance, the planned password customization feature will be delivered via a firmware update. This capability protects your investment and ensures ongoing improvement.
Additional Features:
Further features of the BM3 OBD2 WiFi adapter include:
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On/Off Switch: This physical switch, described earlier, allows manual power control, beneficial for RHD users and V2A adapter owners for power management.
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Sleep Mode + Low Power Consumption: The V3 adapter features a sleep mode, reducing power draw to approximately 20mA when the ignition is off in G series vehicles (not F series due to OBD2 ignition state limitations). It also automatically wakes up when the ignition is turned back on. This sleep mode allows for permanent adapter installation without excessive battery drain or alarm triggers in G series BMWs and Supras, which can be sensitive to OBD2 port activity when locked.
The BM3 WIFI adapter’s low 80mA power consumption during operation is also noteworthy, posing minimal drain on a healthy car battery even if left plugged in.
Permanent adapter installation reduces wear on the OBD2 port, which can suffer damage from frequent plugging and unplugging, as reported by BMW owners:
Credit: Comacchio https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/…?h=0&t=1947105
This image shows a damaged BMW F30 OBD2 port with worn pin holes and a severely damaged pin. Similar issues from OBD2 port overuse are documented in these threads:
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1470306
https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1617787
Sleep mode helps mitigate OBD2 port wear by allowing permanent installation, reducing the need for frequent plugging and unplugging.
Warranty:
BM3 offers a 30-day return policy and warranty on the adapter when purchased directly. Dzenan has indicated that warranty claims beyond 30 days are assessed case-by-case. Manufacturing defects are typically covered at no charge, while user-caused damage may incur a minimal cost replacement fee. Warranty claims are handled directly by BM3, not through third-party vendors, ensuring direct support and potentially better service compared to dealing with resellers. My experience with MHD’s warranty, directing me to the vendor rather than offering direct support, highlights the advantage of BM3’s approach.
Summary:
In summary, here’s why the BM3 adapter is, in my opinion, the best OBD2 adapter currently available:
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Superior Communication: Supports ENET, CANBUS, and FlexRay protocols, compatible with all F series and newer BMWs (including Supra), enabling full ECU communication and fast data transfer via WIFI. It’s one of the fastest, lowest latency adapters available.
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Enhanced Security: Future firmware update will allow user-configurable passwords, significantly enhancing security and mitigating OBD2 exploit risks.
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Battery and Alarm Management: Integrated sleep mode prevents battery drain and alarm triggers in G series and Supra models, facilitating permanent installation and reducing OBD2 port wear.
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Compact and Footwell-Friendly Design: Small, tapered form factor maximizes foot clearance, minimizing accidental kicks and potential OBD2 port damage.
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Future-Proof with Updatable Firmware: Software updates ensure ongoing improvements and new features, preventing obsolescence.
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Excellent Customer Service and Warranty: BM3 offers exceptional customer support and a reasonable warranty, handled directly by the manufacturer for better resolution.
These six points solidify why I believe the BM3 adapter is the top choice in the market today, representing a significant advancement in OBD2 adapter technology and user support.
