Does the Chevy Avalanche have an AFM?
Yes, the Chevrolet Avalanche does have an Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. The Avalanche is a full-size pickup truck that was produced by Chevrolet from 2001 to 2013, and the AFM system was a feature on many of the Avalanche models during that time period.
What is Active Fuel Management (AFM)?
Active Fuel Management, also known as Cylinder Deactivation, is a technology used in some engines to improve fuel efficiency. It works by temporarily shutting off fuel and ignition to some of the engine's cylinders when they are not needed, such as during light load or cruising conditions. This reduces the engine's workload and can improve fuel economy by up to 6%.
How Does AFM Work in the Chevy Avalanche?
The Avalanche's V8 engines, such as the 5.3L and 6.0L options, were equipped with the AFM system. When the engine is operating under light load conditions, the AFM system can deactivate up to four of the engine's eight cylinders, allowing the remaining four cylinders to operate more efficiently. This helps to improve fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
The AFM system is seamless and transparent to the driver, automatically engaging and disengaging the cylinder deactivation as needed based on driving conditions. Drivers may notice a slight change in engine sound when the system is active, but otherwise it operates transparently.
Benefits of AFM in the Chevy Avalanche
- Improved Fuel Economy: The cylinder deactivation feature of AFM can improve fuel efficiency by up to 6% compared to a non-AFM engine. This can result in significant fuel savings over the life of the vehicle.
- Maintained Performance: Even with some cylinders deactivated, the Avalanche's V8 engine still provides ample power and acceleration when needed. The transition between 4-cylinder and 8-cylinder operation is seamless.
- Reduced Emissions: By operating more efficiently, the AFM-equipped engine produces fewer emissions, making the Avalanche more environmentally friendly.
Overall, the inclusion of Active Fuel Management technology in the Chevy Avalanche was a key feature that helped improve the truck's fuel economy without compromising its performance or capability.
What year did the 5.3 get AFM?
AFM started on the 5.3L engine for the 2005 model year, appearing in the GMC Envoy XL, Envoy XUV, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT. The technology was also applied to the new LZ8 V6 engine and the 5.3L V8 LS4 engine in other GM models that year.
- First introduction: AFM was first introduced in 2005, on specific SUVs and other models with the 5.3L engine.
- Expansion: It was later added to a wider range of vehicles, including the Chevrolet Impala SS, Monte Carlo SS, and Pontiac Grand Prix GXP, on the LS4 5.3L engine.
- Later models: AFM became standard on many 5.3L engines from 2007 onwards, with some sources noting that 2007 to 2013 models are often affected by the same issues related to the system.
Does the Avalanche have an AFM?
The Avalanche comes with a choice of three engines. The base engine is a 5.3-liter V8 with Active Fuel Management.
What year is the Avalanche to stay away from?
Years to avoid for the Chevy Avalanche include 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2013 due to specific problems like transmission issues (2003, 2007), and recalls related to the park lock cable or steering column (2013), rear axle (2011), and engine compartment fires (2007). The 2007 model year also has a high number of complaints regarding electronics, seatbelts, and a specific issue with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) lifters.
You can watch this video for an overview of the Chevy Avalanche's second generation, which includes the years 2007-2013: 59sCCV TVYouTube · Apr 2, 2019
Years to avoid and their specific issues
- 2003: Known for significant transmission problems, including delayed shifting, strange noises, and potential failure.
- 2007: Has numerous complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) concerning electronics, seatbelts, and the engine. The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can cause engine problems, was introduced in this generation.
- 2011: Recalled for a rear axle cross pin issue that could fracture and become displaced.
- 2013: Has been recalled for issues with the park lock cable and the steering column lock actuator, as well as other recalls.
Other years with common issues
- 2002-2006: The first generation models are prone to issues like faded exterior trim, fuel trim codes, defective front impact sensors, and broken tailgate handles.
- 2007-2013: The second generation (GMT900 platform) is known for a range of problems, including issues with the throttle body, AFM lifters, loose door handles, and fading plastic trim.
Does the 2005 Avalanche have an AFM?
The 05 won't have AFM, so that's a big plus. On the other hand, the first generation Avalanche is ugly as hell... Stuff starts to wear out with mileage, it also wears out with age. I would definitely spend the money and have a PPI done by a reputable shop.
