Is the Bootmod3 OBD2 WiFi Adapter Truly the Best? An In-Depth Review

Introduction and Quick Overview:

Welcome to an in-depth review of the Bootmod3 (BM3) OBD2 ENET CANBUS enabled WiFi adapter, specifically the V3 version. As a content creator at obd-de.com and an automotive repair expert, I’m here to dissect why this OBD2 adapter is not just another tool, but a game-changer for those running Bootmod3 on their cars or seeking a top-tier adapter for coding apps like ProTool. Could this be the Best Obd2 Wifi Adapter available today? Let’s dive in and find out.

Disclaimer:

• Damage/Injury Disclaimer: Any advice, instructions, or product demonstrations are followed at your own risk. I am not liable for personal injury, harm to others, vehicle damage, or property damage.
• Monetary Disclaimer: This review is independent. I do not receive commissions or financial gains from the sale of the Bootmod3 WiFi adapter.

Image Credits:

Images and videos are credited to their respective owners. If you are an image owner and wish for removal, please contact me. Otherwise, thank you to the original creators for making this review visually engaging.

Review Disclaimer:

I extend my gratitude to proTUNING Freaks/Bootmod3 for their partial sponsorship of this review. Despite this, my analysis remains unbiased. My initiative to request sponsorship underscores my genuine belief in this WiFi adapter as the leading option. I use it personally for coding, flashing, and data logging with Bootmod3 and am even considering transitioning ISTA to wireless connectivity via the BM3 adapter.

Let’s begin by clarifying common terms related to BMW OBD2 systems.

What is “OBD2”?

Credit: confusion https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…07&postcount=2

OBD2, or On-Board Diagnostics 2, refers to the trapezoidal port standard on all cars manufactured post-1996 in the USA (mandated for all automakers). This port provides access to your car’s ECUs (Electronic Control Units), allowing you to read diagnostic fault codes. Cars often have multiple ECUs, such as the DME (Digital Motor Electronics) for engine control in BMWs, GHAS for differential control, and FEM (Front Electronics Module), among others. Standardized codes are defined by SAE J1979, detailing methods for requesting diagnostic data and parameters available from the ECU. 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.).

While basic OBD2 scanners can retrieve generic codes, these are often inadequate for in-depth BMW diagnostics and primarily serve emissions testing. BMW utilizes proprietary error codes beyond the OBD2 standard. Accessing these crucial codes requires BMW-specific software like ISTA or ProTool with a diagnostic license, along with an adapter capable of ENET protocol communication. Generic OBD2 adapters fall short here. You’ll need an adapter like the BM3 WiFi adapter or a dedicated ENET cable.

The OBD2 port’s capabilities extend beyond diagnostics to include software updates (ISTEP), car coding, and performance tuning via platforms like Bootmod3. These advanced functions necessitate an OBD2 adapter supporting BMW’s ENET communication protocol. The BM3 WiFi adapter excels in this area, offering convenient and essential features we’ll explore shortly.

What are “CANBUS” and “FLEXRAY”?

Credit: Autodata training, https://i.ytimg.com/vi/cbwvXO3Y9kI/maxresdefault.jpg

Let’s briefly discuss CANBUS and FLEXRAY. CANBUS, short for Controller Area Network BUS, is essentially a communication network within your car, enabling different electronic components and computers to communicate. Think of it as a digital highway connecting all the electronic systems in your vehicle.

FLEXRAY is similar to CANBUS, serving as a network for interconnecting devices, but operates at significantly higher speeds, offering more reliable data transfer. BMW F series and newer models utilize FLEXRAY, leveraging its faster data transfer capabilities.

Note: Some devices may not directly connect to the CANBUS/FLEXRAY network but might interface through a module that is connected. Therefore, direct connection isn’t always the case.

Note: Modules on the FLEXRAY/CANBUS network can access all data transmitted, facilitating easy integration of new modules like flex-fuel sensors.

Why are these communication protocols critical? A high-quality, fast OBD2 adapter supporting CANBUS and FLEXRAY, like the BM3 adapter, unlocks the potential to utilize faster FLEXRAY data transfer speeds. This allows massive data throughput via the OBD2 port, resulting in incredibly fast data logging. You can monitor numerous channels simultaneously at high sampling rates, providing a much clearer picture of your car’s real-time operation. This enhanced data fidelity reduces the chances of missing crucial events like timing pulls, knock, or boost spikes, compared to slower logging devices. Faster adapters also drastically reduce flashing times, crucial when tuning your car for the first time or flashing large files like BM3’s flex fuel custom ROMs. With a healthy battery, you likely won’t need a battery charger even for these longer operations. Coding sessions also benefit immensely, with faster loading of ECU pages in apps like BimmerCode and ProTool, and quicker application of coding changes. My experience with a cheap Vgate iCar Pro Bluetooth adapter involved waiting a minute to load an ECU page in BimmerCode and another minute to apply changes. The BM3 adapter completes the same tasks in roughly one second each, showcasing the dramatic speed improvement.

Furthermore, a CANBUS/FLEXRAY enabled adapter grants access to all ECUs across modern BMW F and G series models via the CANBUS/FLEXRAY network – something generic OBD2 adapters cannot achieve. This comprehensive access allows flashing and coding of every ECU, including the transmission on 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 terminating in an OBD2 connector, facilitating communication over standard internet protocols. This involves layers like the application layer (ISTA), transport layer (TCP over ENET), network layer (IPV4), and link layer (Ethernet). Crucially, ENET provides very high data transfer speeds and fidelity, essential for fully leveraging the BMW FLEXRAY network.

The BM3 adapter supports the ENET protocol, ensuring seamless communication with BMW F series and newer generations, including the BMW-powered Toyota Supra.

For deeper technical information on ENET and BMW, refer to: https://standards.ieee.org/wp-conten…hitectures.pdf

With these foundational terms defined, let’s focus on the BM3 adapter and my hands-on experience.

Purchasing + Shipping Experience:

My purchase experience directly from Protuning Freaks/BM3 highlights their exceptional customer service.

Crest: PCMag https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/shopify

Ordering through the BM3 website was seamless. The site’s design is modern, fast, and user-friendly. Payment processing via Shopify, a reputable platform used by major companies, was hassle-free with multiple options like PayPal and credit cards accepted, and even PO boxes accommodated. BM3’s commitment to using top-tier software is evident throughout their operations. Overall, the online purchasing experience was excellent.

Credit: TheAmazingBrentWood https://theamazingbrentwood.com/wp-c…0424463738.png

Regarding shipping, I requested delivery to my PO Box via Canada Post standard shipping due to package theft concerns in my area. Estimated delivery was 8-9 days from BM3 HQ (both BM3 and I are in Canada). I placed my order on Wednesday, April 19th, at 4:12 AM and immediately realized a shipping address error. I emailed BM3 support with “URGENT” in the subject line, hoping for a quick address correction before dispatch. To my surprise, by 8:55 AM, I received confirmation that my order was processed, and the address was corrected. Within roughly 4 hours, the adapter was packaged, the address updated, a shipping label created, and ready for Canada Post pickup. This level of responsiveness and shipping speed is remarkable. VTT is the only company that comes close in terms of shipping efficiency.

This impressive service stems from BM3’s dedication to continuous improvement, leveraging cutting-edge software to optimize workflow and communication. Instead of standard email forwarding, BM3 utilizes Atlassian’s JIRA software, the same platform used by tech giants like Twitter, Lyft, Reddit, and Pinterest, for customer service and development.

Credit: Atlassian https://www.atlassian.com/software/jira

JIRA’s ticketing system ensures customer requests are visible to the entire support team, from general support to senior management, guaranteeing that issues are addressed effectively without message forwarding delays. Tickets remain open until resolution, virtually eliminating missed requests. This system efficiently handles high volumes of inquiries and facilitates team scalability. Furthermore, JIRA enables inter-team collaboration, streamlining feature planning, work plan creation, and communication between development and other departments, leading to better code and faster product development.

BM3’s investment in premium tools like JIRA, despite the cost, demonstrates their commitment to excellence. This dedication is a key factor in BM3’s rise as a leading BMW tuning platform, evidenced by their timely launch of GEN 2 B58 race ROM features, outpacing competitors like MHD and ECUTEK.

Returning to shipping, the package arrived at my PO Box on April 25th at 1:22 PM – just 6 days including a weekend. Packaging was adequate, with the adapter in a small cardboard box with packing peanuts and bubble wrap. While the adapter had some internal movement during transit, overall, everything arrived in perfect condition.

Let’s now examine the BM3 WiFi adapter’s features in detail.

Overview:

Let’s get a closer look at the BM3 adapter itself:

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87Source

These images offer a detailed view of the BM3 adapter, which is relatively new to the market. Key observations include:

• Image 1 (Back): The BM3 logo is embossed on the back, with a tapered bottom section. The case is translucent when held to light.
• Image 2 (Side): The tapered design is evident, enhancing foot clearance in the driver’s footwell.
• Image 3 (Front): Features a vent hole for internal components and an on/off toggle switch on the top right. The switch controls power independently of the sleep mode. Toggling left turns it on, right turns it off. This manual switch is useful for V2A versions without sleep mode or for forced power cycling. However, the switch’s front-facing position is less accessible once plugged in, especially for LHD vehicles where the OBD2 port is typically on the driver’s side, facing the trim. Relocating the switch to the bottom or back might improve accessibility. A rectangular indent likely serves as a label area.
• Image 4 (OBD2 Connector): Shows a standard OBD2 connector with secure and precise fitment.

Dimensions:

Adapter dimensions are crucial, especially given the OBD2 port’s proximity to the dead pedal in LHD cars. Accidental kicking is a common issue, particularly in manual transmission vehicles, potentially leading to connection loss or, in severe cases, OBD2 port damage, as illustrated below:

Credit: N52 E90 https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1364965

A compact adapter minimizes the risk of accidental kicks and port damage. The BM3 WiFi adapter is notably thinner and shorter than older adapters like the black MHD ENET WiFi adapter, significantly reducing the likelihood of interference.

Here are dimension measurements using digital calipers:

Credit: F87source
Width: 44.68 mm

Credit F87source
Height: 69.51 mm

Credit: F87source
Thickness (thickest point): 20.20 mm

Beyond overall size, the tapered design further enhances foot clearance:

Credit: F87source
Thickness (tapered section): 14.64 mm

The BM3 adapter’s size and shape prioritize driver foot clearance, minimizing accidental kicks. During pre-travel testing in my F87 M2 (manual transmission), the adapter’s reduced size allowed significantly more ankle and foot movement before contact. This design likely resolves or greatly reduces the kicking issue, a welcome improvement.

Here are images of the adapter installed in my F87 M2:

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

Credit: F87source

As seen, the adapter is slim and sits close to the trim, making it less obtrusive than bulkier alternatives. A subtle orange light illuminates through the case when powered on.

WIFI Connectivity:

The BM3 adapter utilizes WiFi for wireless communication, specifically 2.4 GHz WiFi. This choice ensures broad compatibility with older devices lacking 5 GHz support.

The default WiFi hotspot credentials are SSID: “BM3-NET” and Password: “bootmod3”, printed inside the box lid:

Credit:F87source

Let’s explore the advantages of WiFi over Bluetooth for OBD2 adapters:

1. Speed: WiFi (2.4 GHz) offers speeds up to 300 Mbps, while Bluetooth 5 reaches only 2 Mbps. The BM3 adapter’s WiFi link speed peaks at 72 Mbps, still significantly faster than Bluetooth. This speed advantage translates to quicker flashing and data transfer, positioning it as one of the fastest OBD2 adapters available, rivaled perhaps only by the MHD Universal WiFi adapter.

2. Latency: WiFi generally exhibits lower latency than Bluetooth, especially at higher connection speeds. Lower latency means less lag between data acquisition from the OBD2 port and reception by your connected device. This is crucial for real-time gauges, providing a more responsive and accurate display of engine parameters like RPM.

3. Range: WiFi provides significantly greater range than Bluetooth (2x-3x). This extended range allows for convenient coding and diagnostics (using ISTA) from a nearby workbench or even inside your house, eliminating the need to be confined within or immediately next to the vehicle. I’ve successfully coded my car from approximately 15 meters away, through walls, with a stable 50% WiFi signal.

4. Transmission Fidelity: Bluetooth uses a “best effort” transmission protocol without built-in retransmission or packet acknowledgement. WiFi, in contrast, includes retransmission and acknowledgement mechanisms, ensuring higher data fidelity out-of-the-box.

5. Encryption: WiFi employs robust encryption protocols, significantly more secure than Bluetooth, which sometimes lacks encryption entirely. Security is paramount for wireless OBD2 adapters, especially if left plugged in, as unencrypted connections are vulnerable to hacking. A compromised connection can grant malicious actors access to the car’s CANBUS/FLEXRAY network, potentially leading to key cloning and vehicle theft via the OBD2 port. This BMW vulnerability is well-documented in news articles and forums:

   • https://f30.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh…d.php?t=688307
   • https://www.forbes.com/sites/adriank…h=4f4f39905a3d

   While WiFi encryption is strong, default or easily guessable passwords negate these benefits. The BM3 adapter’s default password, while documented, could be a potential concern if widely known. However, Dzenan from BM3 has confirmed plans to implement user-configurable passwords in a future update, addressing this security aspect and surpassing current market offerings in security. This proactive approach to security is commendable.

Updatable Firmware:

The BM3 WiFi OBD2 adapter’s firmware is updateable via the BM3 app. This future-proofs the adapter, allowing users to benefit from new features and improvements without hardware replacements. User-configurable SSID and password functionality is planned for a future update, demonstrating BM3’s commitment to continuous improvement and feature enhancement through software updates.

Additional Features:

Further features of the BM3 OBD2 WiFi adapter include:

1. On/Off Switch: As detailed earlier, the physical switch offers manual power control, beneficial for RHD vehicle owners and V2A adapter users without sleep mode.

2. Sleep Mode + Low Power Consumption: The V3 adapter features a sleep mode, drawing only ~20mA when the ignition is off on G series vehicles (not F series due to OBD2 ignition state reporting limitations). Wake-up is automatic upon ignition restart. This sleep mode and a low 80mA running current allow for permanent adapter installation without battery drain issues or alarm triggers in G series BMWs and Toyota Supras.

   Permanent OBD2 adapter installation minimizes wear and tear on the OBD2 port, a common issue reported by BMW owners:

   Credit: Comacchio https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/…?h=0&t=1947105

   The image shows a damaged OBD2 port with a broken pin and worn plastic pin holes, a result of frequent OBD2 device use. Similar reports of OBD2 port pin damage exist online:

   • https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1470306
   • https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1617787

   Sleep mode significantly reduces OBD2 port wear by enabling permanent adapter connection.

Warranty:

BM3 offers a 30-day return and warranty period for adapters purchased directly. However, Dzenan has stated that warranty claims beyond 30 days are assessed on a case-by-case basis, with likely coverage for manufacturing defects not caused by user damage. User-induced damage may incur minimal cost replacement fees. Warranty claims are handled directly by BM3, not third-party vendors, ensuring a higher level of customer service and direct access to hardware repair or replacement capabilities. This direct OEM support is a significant advantage over dealing with vendors, as experienced with my previous MHD WiFi adapter where vendor support was prioritized over OEM assistance.

Summary:

In summary, here’s why the BM3 adapter stands out as the best OBD2 WiFi adapter:

1. ENET, CANBUS/FlexRay, and WiFi Support: Enables communication with all ECUs in F series and newer BMWs (including Supra) with exceptional speed and low latency.

2. User-Configurable Passwords (Future Update): Will enhance security, making it safe for permanent in-car use without OBD2 exploit risks.

3. Sleep Mode: Prevents battery drain and alarm triggers on G series and Supra models, facilitating permanent installation and minimizing OBD2 port wear.

4. Compact, Tapered Design: Maximizes footwell clearance, minimizing accidental kicks and OBD2 port damage.

5. Updatable Firmware: Ensures future-proofing and feature enhancements via software updates.

6. Excellent Customer Service and Warranty: Direct OEM support and flexible warranty handling provide superior customer assurance.

These six key advantages solidify the Bootmod3 OBD2 adapter as the premier choice in the market today.