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How does Chevy Dynamic Fuel Management work?

Chevrolet's Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) is an advanced engine technology that improves fuel efficiency by automatically deactivating cylinders when they are not needed. This allows the engine to operate in the most efficient mode possible, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.


How Dynamic Fuel Management Works


Dynamic Fuel Management is a cylinder deactivation system that can seamlessly switch between using all of the engine's cylinders and using only the number of cylinders needed to meet the current driving demand. This is achieved through the following process:



  • The engine control module continuously monitors driving conditions, such as speed, load, and acceleration, to determine the optimal number of cylinders needed to power the vehicle.

  • When less power is required, such as during steady-state cruising, the system can deactivate up to seven of the engine's eight cylinders, allowing the remaining cylinder(s) to operate more efficiently.

  • When more power is needed, such as during acceleration or hill climbing, the system can reactivate the deactivated cylinders almost instantly, providing the necessary power.

  • The transition between cylinder activation and deactivation is seamless, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted driving experience for the user.


By dynamically adjusting the number of active cylinders, Chevy's Dynamic Fuel Management system can improve fuel efficiency by up to 8% compared to traditional engine designs that use all cylinders at all times.


Benefits of Dynamic Fuel Management


The key benefits of Chevy's Dynamic Fuel Management technology include:



  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: By deactivating cylinders when they are not needed, DFM can reduce fuel consumption and emissions, leading to better fuel economy for the vehicle.

  • Seamless Performance: The transition between cylinder activation and deactivation is virtually unnoticeable, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience.

  • Reduced Emissions: By operating the engine in its most efficient mode, DFM can help reduce the vehicle's overall emissions, contributing to a more environmentally-friendly driving experience.

  • Increased Engine Lifespan: By reducing the workload on the engine when less power is required, DFM can help extend the engine's lifespan and reduce maintenance costs over time.


Chevy's Dynamic Fuel Management technology is a significant advancement in engine design, providing drivers with improved fuel efficiency and performance without compromising the driving experience.

Will DFM disabler void warranty?


Unlike reprogramming the ECU or fully deleting the system, a plug-and-play disabler device does not void factory warranty. Devices like ours simply relay messages to the engine's computer telling it not to engage AFM or DFM. They do not change the factory programming and therefore don't void warranty.



Is dynamic fuel management better than Active Fuel Management?


The Dynamic Fuel Management system takes a step up from Active Fuel Managment and adds the advancement of technology with a DFM computer that makes quick calculations that determine how many — and which — cylinders need to be deactivated to perform at optimum levels.



How does dynamic fuel management work?


Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) and Active Fuel Management (AFM) are Chevy's attempt to resolve this conundrum, giving the pickup the ability to selectively deactivate a number of the engine's cylinders in a bid to improve fuel economy for those times when you're towing more kids and groceries than bricks and lumber.



Does DFM cause lifter failure?


The two most common problems with AFM & DFM are lifter failure and excessive oil consumption. Lifter failure is extremely common once vehicles start reaching the 150,000 mile mark.



What year did Chevy 5.3 have lifter problems?


The models affected are Chevrolet Silverado trucks from 2016 to present and, most particularly the 2021 models with 5.3L and 6.2L engines.



Can you get a Silverado without DFM?


Beginning in March 2021, most 2021 Silverado 1500 and 2021 Sierra 1500 trucks equipped with L82 MYC 6-speed and L84 MQE 8-Speed will be produced without Active Fuel Management/AFM (L82), or Dynamic Fuel Management/DFM (L84).



Can 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.



Can DFM be turned off?


The Range AFM/DFM Disabler allows your V6 or V8 GM vehicle to run in full cylinder mode at all times, preventing the Active or Dynamic Fuel Management system from dropping cylinders. Our patented technology is the only product that will disable Active or Dynamic Fuel Management without reprogramming the factory ECU.



Does AFM cause lifter failure?


If the AFM lifter unlocks as soon as the engine is started, low compression will result on that cylinder and a misfire code will be stored. Collapsed or stuck AFM lifters due to oil contamination will result in the same. Contamination/sludge is a major concern, prompting some to re-evaluate mileage service intervals.



What year did GM start using DFM?


In January 2018, GM announced an improved version of AFM called Dynamic Fuel Management to be initially released in Chevy Silverado trucks.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.