Does Chevy Colorado have Active Fuel Management?
AFM is not universal in the Chevy Colorado. It has appeared on certain gasoline V6 variants in some model years, while the base four-cylinder and all diesel versions do not use AFM. If you're shopping or buying used, check the exact engine and window sticker to confirm whether AFM is equipped.
What is Active Fuel Management?
Active Fuel Management (AFM), also called cylinder deactivation, is GM's technology that shuts down half of the engine's cylinders under light-load conditions to save fuel. When more power is required, the inactive cylinders are reactivated automatically. AFM is most commonly associated with GM's gasoline V6 engines and is not used on diesels.
AFM availability in the Chevy Colorado by engine family
Here is a concise guide to AFM availability across Colorado engines and generations. The information reflects common configurations but can vary by model year, trim, and market.
- 3.6L gasoline V6 engines: AFM has appeared on some Colorado versions in certain model years; check the specific build for AFM.
- 2.8L Duramax diesel: AFM is not used on this diesel engine.
- 4-cylinder base engines: AFM is not used on these engines.
In practice, AFM availability is tied to the engine family rather than a single model year. If AFM is important to you, verify with the dealer or check the vehicle's window sticker or owner's manual for the presence of "Active Fuel Management" or "Displacement on Demand."
How to tell if your Colorado has AFM
Use these steps to confirm AFM on a specific Colorado you own or are considering:
- Inspect the engine cover and nearby badges for "Active Fuel Management" or "Displacement on Demand."
- Look at the window sticker or original sales brochure; AFM is typically listed as a feature for engines that support it.
- Ask the dealer for the exact engine code and check GM service documentation or VIN-level build data to confirm AFM availability.
Note: AFM operates automatically and should only be a concern for maintenance and long-term durability reasons; some owners may prefer to disable AFM with a tuner if recommended by their mechanic. Always follow GM's guidelines and consult a qualified technician before making changes.
What to consider if you’re shopping used Colorado with AFM
If AFM is on your must-have list, consider these factors before purchase:
- Firmware/engine control module (ECM) compatibility and AFM behavior in your year/model.
- Potential AFM-related maintenance needs, such as lifter issues reported in some GM AFM engines in earlier years.
- Warranty coverage for AFM-related components and any aftermarket remedies.
Consult a GM technician about AFM reliability for your chosen year and trim, and request service history that indicates AFM-related concerns or resets.
Summary
Active Fuel Management is not universal in the Chevy Colorado. It is associated with certain gasoline V6 engines and is not used on diesel versions or base four-cylinder engines. If AFM matters to you, verify the exact engine and model year on the vehicle you’re considering, using the window sticker, owner's manual, or dealer confirmation.
