If you’re using the Torque app to monitor your car’s performance, you’re likely relying on a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter. These handy devices plug into your car’s OBD2 port and wirelessly transmit data to your smartphone, letting you see everything from engine temperature to fault codes in real-time. However, not all OBD2 adapters are created equal, and a significant issue lurks beneath the surface: pirate or clone versions, especially concerning ELM327-based adapters commonly used with Torque.
The ELM327 chip is the brain behind many affordable OBD2 adapters. According to Wikipedia and reports from users, early versions of the genuine ELM327 chip were vulnerable to copying. This led to a proliferation of “pirate clones” – adapters that use illegally copied firmware. These clones often mimic the appearance of genuine devices and are sold at tempting prices, but they can cause headaches for Torque app users.
The biggest problem with these pirate adapters is their unreliability. They are typically based on the outdated ELM327 version 1.0 firmware, even if they falsely report a newer version like “1.5” when queried by apps like Torque Pro. As the original article points out, ELM Electronics, the makers of the genuine chip, never released a version 1.5. This deceptive version reporting is a major red flag. While your Torque app might connect to a clone adapter, you might experience inaccurate readings, dropped connections, or limited functionality compared to what a genuine adapter offers. You could be missing out on crucial data or even misdiagnosing car problems due to faulty adapter firmware.
So, how do you avoid getting stuck with a pirated Bluetooth OBD2 adapter for your Torque app? Unfortunately, it’s not always easy. The market is flooded with these clones, often sold through online marketplaces. One user’s experience highlights this challenge: ordering an adapter from a major online retailer that, despite seeming like a good deal, reported a suspicious “Version 1.5” firmware in Torque Pro, along with a warning about piracy in the adapter notes itself. This clearly indicates a clone device.
To minimize the risk, be cautious of incredibly cheap adapters, especially those claiming to be “ELM327 version 1.5”. Purchase from reputable sellers who have positive reviews and clear product descriptions. If possible, look for adapters that explicitly state they use genuine ELM327 chips and mention the actual ELM327 version number (avoiding the suspicious “1.5”). While the user in the original article considered returning their potentially pirated adapter, taking preventative measures by choosing your source carefully in the first place is the best approach to ensure you get a reliable Bluetooth OBD2 adapter for accurate diagnostics with your Torque app.
