How do I know if I have Active Fuel Management?
Active Fuel Management (AFM) is a technology used in many modern vehicles to improve fuel efficiency by deactivating some of the engine's cylinders under light-load conditions. If you're wondering whether your vehicle is equipped with AFM, there are several signs and methods to help you identify it. In this article, we will explore the key indicators and steps to determine if your car has this feature.
Signs Your Vehicle May Have Active Fuel Management
There are a few noticeable signs that can indicate whether your vehicle is utilizing Active Fuel Management:
- Engine Performance: If you notice that your engine runs smoother and quieter during light acceleration, it may be using AFM to deactivate cylinders.
- Fuel Economy: A significant improvement in fuel economy, especially during highway driving, can suggest the presence of AFM.
- Dashboard Indicators: Some vehicles may have a specific indicator light or message on the dashboard that alerts you when AFM is active.
How to Check for Active Fuel Management
If you want to confirm whether your vehicle has Active Fuel Management, follow these steps:
- Consult the Owner's Manual: The easiest way to find out if your vehicle is equipped with AFM is to check the owner's manual. Look for sections related to engine specifications or fuel management systems.
- Check the Engine Code: Many vehicles with AFM will have specific engine codes. You can use an OBD-II scanner to check for codes that indicate AFM functionality.
- Contact the Manufacturer: If you're still unsure, contacting your vehicle's manufacturer or dealership can provide you with definitive information regarding AFM.
Conclusion
Understanding whether your vehicle has Active Fuel Management can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and fuel efficiency. By observing performance signs and following the steps outlined above, you can easily determine if your car is equipped with this beneficial technology. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you tell if you have Active Fuel Management?
Specific visual cues and components under the hood can indicate the presence of AFM technology. Knowing what to look for lets you quickly identify if your vehicle is equipped with this fuel-saving system. These indicators include engine cover markings, unique solenoids, and specific valve cover designs, among others.
What engines have Active Fuel Management?
GM used the Active Fuel Management technology on a range of engines including with the GM Small Block Gen IV engine family, first-generation GM EcoTec3 engine family, second-generation GM High-Feature V6 DOHC engine family, and first-generation High-Feature V8 DOHC engine family.
Which GM engines do not have an AFM?
The LM2 Duramax 3.0L turbo-diesel, the L8T 6.6L V8, and the LS3 have neither AFM nor the latest version, called DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management). In addition, some 5.3L V8s from 2021 and 2022 don't include either fuel-saving system due to semi-conductor shortages manufacturers were dealing with during that time.
What are the symptoms of bad Active Fuel Management?
The symptoms of a cam or lifter failure usually involve a chirping, ticking, squealing or squeaking sound accompanied by a Check Engine light and engine misfire codes stored in memory. The misfire condition may not be evident to the vehicle operator.
