For Subaru owners pushing for performance while avoiding Cobb Tuning’s Green Speed restrictions, a workaround strategy has emerged. Instead of abandoning the popular Accessport tuning platform, enthusiasts can retain key emissions components and keep the Accessport firmware pre-update. This way, they maintain the ability to use desired tunes while still respecting emissions rules.
Understanding the Green Speed Update
In April 2022, Cobb released its Green Speed update, which locked out certain tuning features that modify emissions-related functions. The update grayouts tables for components like catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR, tumble valves, and evap systems.
Why Cobb Did This
Cobb’s move aligns with environmental regulations in key markets like California, where unchecked emissions modifications are prohibited without CARB Executive Orders. By enforcing Green Speed restrictions, Cobb ensures its platform remains compliant and minimizes emissions tampering.
The Green Speed Workaround Explained
Despite these limitations, many tuners have found ways to preserve full tuning capability. The workaround typically involves three strategies:
- Retain all factory emissions hardware (cats, sensors, EGR, etc.)
- Use pre-Green Speed Accessport firmware and disable auto-updates
- Rely on protuner or open-source tuning tools to prevent emissions restrictions being applied
Keep Emissions Components Installed
Tuners confirm that so long as emissions equipment remains in place and functional, the Accessport will allow more aggressive tuning maps without triggering locked tables or CELs.
Use Older Firmware or Prevent Updating
Once Cobb enabled Green Speed, older firmware versions that allowed full tuning were disabled. The workaround involves loading a preGreen Speed map to the Accessport and disabling firmware updates. Reddit users report success with this approach: Bypassing green speed tuning via AP is still possible.
Protuner or OpenSource Tuning
Some tuners rely on custom maps through Cobb’s protuner network or use opensource platforms (like RomRaider) to avoid Green Speed restrictions entirely.
Pros and Cons of the Workaround
Pros
- Retains full Accessport tuning capabilities
- Allows advanced setups with cats, flexfuel kits, or custom hardware
- Continues to use a user-friendly and supported tuning interface
Cons
- Risk of noncompliance if emissions hardware is removed or fails
- Accessport support may be limited if Cobb identifies tampering
- Risk of future updates or detection methods breaking the workaround
Recommendations for Subaru Owners
Talk to a Trusted Tuner
Professionals like Ron Watson are known to deliver conservative, Green Speedsafe maps that respect OE emissions parts.
Stick to Stock Emissions Hardware
Ensure your catalytic converters, sensors, and related components remain installed and operational. Avoid modifications that trigger Green Speed restrictions.
Manage Firmware Carefully
Load a pre-April 2022 firmware update to your Accessport, then disable future updates via the Accessport Manager. This preserves tuning flexibility while avoiding automatic restrictions.
Future Outlook
Cobb continues to support emissions-friendly tunes via CARB-approved packages and GESi hardware. The aftermarket is also advancing with flex-fuel setups and open-source solutions. However, accessing these features while staying emissions-compliant means staying informed and working with knowledgeable tuners.
The Cobb Green Speed update represents a shift toward regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility. For enthusiasts unwilling to compromise on tuning control, the Green Speed workaround offers a viable path. By retaining emissions hardware, locking in pre-update firmware, and working with skilled tuners, you can continue to enjoy high-performance tuning without losing your Accessport platform. Just proceed with awareness: the solution works today, but staying ahead of future updates and maintaining compliance over time is essential.
If you’re considering the Green Speed workaround, proceed thoughtfully. Understand the risks, consult with professionals, and stay informed. The Subaru tuning community remains resilient finding balance between performance, legality, and innovation.
: