Can you turn off Chevy AFM?
Active Fuel Management (AFM) is a system used in many Chevrolet vehicles to improve fuel efficiency by deactivating half of the engine's cylinders under light load conditions. While this feature can save fuel, some drivers prefer to disable it due to concerns about engine wear, performance, or personal driving preferences. In this article, we’ll explore whether you can turn off Chevy AFM, how it’s done, and what you should consider before making this decision.
What Is Chevy AFM and Why Would You Want to Turn It Off?
Chevy’s Active Fuel Management system is designed to enhance fuel economy by shutting down specific cylinders when full engine power isn’t needed. For example, in a V8 engine, AFM can deactivate four cylinders during highway cruising or low-load conditions. However, some drivers choose to disable AFM for the following reasons:
- Engine Longevity: AFM can lead to increased wear on certain engine components, such as lifters and camshafts, which may result in costly repairs over time.
- Performance Concerns: Some drivers feel that AFM affects throttle response and overall engine performance.
- Driving Preferences: Drivers who prefer consistent power delivery may find AFM’s cylinder deactivation disruptive.
How to Turn Off Chevy AFM
Disabling Chevy AFM can be done in a few ways, depending on your vehicle model and your technical expertise. Here are the most common methods:
- Using an AFM Disabler: This is a plug-and-play device that connects to your vehicle’s OBD-II port. It prevents the AFM system from activating without requiring any permanent modifications to your vehicle. This is a popular option for its simplicity and reversibility.
- Reprogramming the ECU: A professional tuner can modify your vehicle’s engine control unit (ECU) to disable AFM. This method provides a more permanent solution but requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
- Mechanical Modifications: For a more comprehensive approach, you can replace AFM-specific components, such as lifters and camshafts, with non-AFM parts. This is typically done during an engine rebuild or upgrade and is the most expensive option.
Things to Consider Before Disabling AFM
Before you decide to turn off Chevy AFM, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons:
- Warranty Implications: Disabling AFM may void your vehicle’s warranty, especially if it involves ECU reprogramming or mechanical modifications.
- Fuel Economy: Disabling AFM will likely reduce your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, as all cylinders will remain active at all times.
- Professional Assistance: If you’re not experienced with vehicle modifications, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic or tuner to ensure the process is done correctly.
Conclusion
Yes, you can turn off Chevy AFM, but it’s a decision that requires careful consideration. Whether you choose an AFM disabler, ECU reprogramming, or mechanical modifications, make sure to understand the potential impacts on your vehicle’s performance, warranty, and fuel economy. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. If you’re considering disabling AFM or have questions about your Chevy, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team for guidance!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all 5.3 have cylinder deactivation?
Yes. 5.3 and 6.2, unless your 19-22 5.3 is stated with the window sticker (idk if theres a code) that the 5.3 is to come without DFM. 2500's never have or will come with AFM/DFM.
How do I disable GM Active Fuel Management?
An AFM Disabler is an electronic device that plugs into the OBD-II port, under the dashboard. It prevents the computer from switching over to 4 cylinder mode. It's a simple and effective way to turn off the AFM system.
Can you disable cylinder deactivation?
Unfortunately, optimizing the system requires that we adjust the triggers that make us step from all cylinders to shut-off mode and back again. Looking at popular aftermarket tuning software options, there are several ways to disable the system, based on rpm, VSS, gear, voltage, run time, and more.
Can you get a Silverado without an AFM?
This is some pretty crazy new in the truck world! GM just announced they will be making 5.3 v8 without any AFM or DFM for the remainder of 2021. Yes that's right you will now be able to buy a brand new truck from GM without any fuel management systems shutting down cylinders! Full article - https://www.gm-trucks.c.
Does disabling AFM improve mpg?
Additionally, if you happen to spend all of your driving time in the range where the factor AFM V4 mode is the most efficient (and the V8 disabler turns it off), you will see an additional hit to the mileage (usually around 1 mpg).
Can dealers turn off AFM?
Seriously they will not do it unless they are one of the performance orientated places. Most dealerships do not have the software to turn off AFM. Correct. Dealers can not "custom" modify your software nor would they want to.
Can Chevrolet cylinder deactivation be turned off?
Correct, the only way to completely disable the system and eliminate the design of the system is to replace all of the lifters with non-DOD lifters and tune the engine computer to ignore the system. There are plenty of kits out there that are made for this exact purpose.
What year 5.3 has cylinder deactivation?
last year to avoid some form of cylinder deactivation in the 5.3L is 2006 or the 2007 classic.
Can GM AFM be turned off?
An AFM Disabler is an electronic device that plugs into the OBD-II port, under the dashboard. It prevents the computer from switching over to 4 cylinder mode. It's a simple and effective way to turn off the AFM system. It will also improve the sound of the exhaust.
Can you disable AFM with a scan tool?
For some drivers, these changes in engine performance are distracting or unwanted, which leads them to disable AFM altogether. While there are many ways to disable the system, using a scan tool is one of the most direct methods, and it can often be done without needing any extra devices or hardware.
