Bluetooth driver issue on ASUS B650-E WiFi Plus – Generic driver keeps reinstalling (USB\VID_0489&PID_E0E2)

Resolving Bluetooth Driver Issues on ASUS B650-E WiFi Plus Motherboard

Many users face challenges when attempting to set up Bluetooth functionality on modern motherboards, even when the core components seem compatible and properly installed. For owners of the ASUS B650-E WiFi Plus motherboard running Windows 11, a common issue involves persistent Bluetooth driver problems—specifically, Windows defaulting to a generic driver that refuses to function correctly and continually reinstalling itself.

Understanding the Issue

In some cases, despite successful WiFi connections, Bluetooth remains non-functional. Users may notice that Windows automatically applies a generic Bluetooth driver—associated with hardware IDs like USB\VID_0489&PID_E0E2—which leads to hardware errors such as “Code 43.” This error signifies that Windows cannot properly communicate with the Bluetooth hardware due to driver incompatibility or corruption.

Typical Troubleshooting Steps

1. Uninstall and Reinstall Drivers:
2. Using Device Manager, uninstall the Bluetooth device completely, selecting the option to delete driver software.

3. Attempt to install official drivers from ASUS’s support page, notably the Realtek Bluetooth driver tailored for your motherboard.

4. Verify Hardware IDs:

5. Use Device Manager to locate the Bluetooth device and note its hardware IDs (e.g., USB\VID_0489&PID_E0E2).

6. Search these IDs online to identify compatible drivers or known issues.

7. Update Drivers from Different Sources:

8. Besides ASUS, check the motherboard manufacturer’s website or trusted driver repositories.
9. Avoid generic Windows updates, as they often overwrite custom drivers with default ones.

Despite these efforts, many users find that Windows automatically reinstalls the generic driver upon reboot, or after driver updates, and the Bluetooth hardware remains unusable.

Potential Solutions and Recommendations

• Disable Automatic Driver Updates:
  To prevent Windows from overwriting custom drivers, consider disabling automatic driver updates:
• Open Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc) > Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update > Do not include drivers with Windows Updates.

• Alternatively, use the Device Installation Settings to block automatic driver downloads.

• Use Manufacturer-Specific Drivers:

• Obtain Bluetooth drivers directly from ASUS’s support portal, ensuring you select the correct model and operating system version.

• Update BIOS and Chipset Drivers:

• Sometimes, firmware and chipset updates resolve