This article delves into the purported benefits and drawbacks of using Nitro OBD2 chips to enhance vehicle performance. These devices claim to boost horsepower by 35% and torque by 25%, which are significant figures. Such gains would rival those achieved through professional ECU remapping or piggyback ECU modifications, costing considerably more.
Here’s what the Nitro OBD2 device typically looks like:
Interestingly, even when referring to the same product, packaging variations exist. One package obscures the word “torque,” while the other doesn’t. This raises suspicions about potential counterfeit products. If both are genuine, why the packaging inconsistencies for an identical item?
Nitro OBD2 is marketed for its user-friendliness, emphasizing a plug-and-play installation. Simply inserting the device into your car’s OBD2 port is claimed to unlock increased power. It’s suggested that the device works by remapping the Engine Control Unit (ECU), thus improving performance. Furthermore, it’s stated that the settings adapt to the driver’s habits after approximately 200km of driving – a considerable distance for adaptation.
These Nitro OBD2 units are available in different colors, each associated with a specific benefit: yellow for a 35% horsepower increase in gasoline engines, red for a 35% horsepower increase in diesel engines, and green for a 15% fuel efficiency improvement in gasoline engines.
The promised power gains are comparable to those advertised by brands like Racechip, which are plug and play devices priced in the range of hundreds to thousands of dollars. Racechip devices, however, connect to turbo or injection control wires, a different approach from OBD2 chips.
Devices like the Racechip Tuning Box or ProRacing OBD2 share a functional similarity with Nitro OBD2, yet offer adjustable settings, adding a layer of customization.
Conversely, the ProRacing ChipBox operates more akin to Racechip, intervening directly with engine control signals.
A local equivalent, Equteche, exists, though primarily designed for motorcycles. Created by Gisik Untung (G6), it demonstrates the concept of adjustable fuel management systems even for smaller engines.
User Feedback: Real-World Experiences with Nitro OBD2
Online forums provide anecdotal evidence from users who have tried Nitro OBD2. In an Avanza Xenia forum thread discussing OBD2 modifications, users shared their experiences.
One user, “eyb,” described experimenting with sensor manipulation to enhance performance, noting improvements in throttle response even with simple resistor modifications. They found the Nitro OBD2 “yellow chip” noticeably improved low-end torque in their low MPV car, making it more agile and responsive, especially in city driving. They felt the car was more “fun to drive” with improved throttle response.
Another user, Hendra_Hartono, confirmed using the yellow Nitro OBD2 and experiencing increased power and torque without a significant fuel economy penalty.
Eyb further elaborated that the yellow chip made the car feel less sluggish, particularly with the air conditioning running. They also tested the green “economy” version, observing a slight fuel savings compared to stock, although they preferred the performance of the yellow chip. These observations were based on their experience with an Avanza 2010 model.
User “aldinof” reported driving approximately 80km with varied terrain, including hills, after installing the Nitro OBD2. They noticed the vehicle could handle inclines in higher gears than before, even with a load of passengers. Their personal satisfaction was high, rating it 8.5 out of 10, and they didn’t perceive a significant impact on fuel consumption. This user also used an Apex air filter in conjunction with the Nitro OBD2. They further noted positive results on a 2016 Gran Max pickup truck, with drivers reporting improved power, especially on hills, even without being informed about the Nitro OBD2 installation beforehand.
These user testimonials suggest a perceived improvement in power and responsiveness with Nitro OBD2, particularly in low-end torque and throttle response. This aligns with the author’s previous experiences with devices like cemenite and pro capacitor, although those devices also claimed fuel efficiency gains, which are presented separately with Nitro OBD2 (green unit for economy). This implies Nitro OBD2 might alter engine settings for either power or economy, potentially at the expense of the other.
However, some users reported a decrease in power at higher RPMs. Dyno tests appear to corroborate this, showing a lack of significant power increase and even a performance drop at higher engine speeds.
Dyno Test Results: A More Objective Look
An automotive news outlet, otomotifnet.com, conducted dyno tests on a Nitro OBD2 device and published their findings in an article titled “Tes Piggyback Instan Nitro OBD 2 Ngedrop Mulai 5.000 Rpm Ke Atas” (Instant Piggyback Nitro OBD 2 Drops from 5,000 RPM Upwards).
Their test of the Nitro OBD2 on a 2012 Toyota Avanza A/T revealed that while there was a perceived improvement in throttle response at lower RPMs (2,500-3,000 rpm), dyno data showed no significant power gains. In fact, at higher RPMs (above 5,000 rpm), a slight decrease in performance was observed. The initial impression of improved responsiveness was noticeable, but the objective dyno measurements didn’t support the claims of substantial power increases.
Understanding the Mechanism: How Nitro OBD2 Likely Functions
Discussions in online forums, like a Nissan Juke forum thread titled “Obd2 tuning box,” shed light on the probable workings of Nitro OBD2. Users speculate that these devices primarily alter gas pedal response. This means that a 50% pedal input with the device might be interpreted by the ECU as a 100% input without it. Similarly, a 25% input could mimic a 50% input. This artificially enhanced throttle response can create the sensation of increased power, especially at lower speeds and during initial acceleration.
Furthermore, it’s suggested that Nitro OBD2 might attempt to trick the ECU into thinking the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is reporting colder air than actual. Colder air readings typically prompt the ECU to inject more fuel. However, modern engines like the Nissan Juke often already run rich, so this approach could be detrimental, potentially reducing fuel economy and even harming performance in the long run.
Conclusion: Sensations vs. Reality with Nitro OBD2
In conclusion, for a relatively inexpensive device like Nitro OBD2, priced around $10-$20 USD, it can create a feeling of improved performance for some users, primarily due to the manipulated throttle response. The most noticeable effect is the enhanced throttle sensitivity, making the car feel more responsive to initial pedal input.
However, the promised 35% power increase is not substantiated by objective dyno testing. While users might perceive improvements in daily driving scenarios, like making the AC less impactful on performance or climbing hills at slightly lower RPMs, these are more likely due to the altered throttle mapping rather than genuine horsepower gains.
For users seeking substantial and reliable performance upgrades, especially for demanding applications like racing, Nitro OBD2 is unlikely to be a suitable solution. More sophisticated plug-and-play devices from reputable brands or professional ECU tuning are better options for verifiable and significant power increases.
If considering Nitro OBD2 for a perceived “peppier” feel in daily driving and stop-and-go traffic, it might be worth exploring. However, it’s crucial to have realistic expectations and not anticipate the advertised 35% horsepower boost. It’s also advisable to seek recommendations from users who have had positive experiences and inquire about reputable vendors to avoid potentially counterfeit units.
A lingering question remains: if these devices can alter ECU behavior through the OBD2 port, why isn’t there readily available software for smartphones or tablets to achieve similar adjustments? Numerous OBD2 interface tools exist that can read and, in some cases, modify ECU settings. This suggests the functionality of Nitro OBD2 might be simpler than true ECU remapping, focusing on manipulating sensor signals rather than rewriting ECU code.
