What vehicles have cylinder deactivation?
Cylinder deactivation is a technology used in modern vehicles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This system allows an engine to deactivate some of its cylinders under light-load conditions, effectively turning a V8 engine into a V4, for example. In this article, we will explore which vehicles are equipped with this innovative feature and how it benefits both performance and economy.
What is Cylinder Deactivation?
Cylinder deactivation is a mechanism that allows an engine to shut off some of its cylinders when full power is not needed. This technology is particularly beneficial in larger engines, where fuel consumption can be significantly reduced during highway driving or when cruising at lower speeds.
Vehicles Featuring Cylinder Deactivation
Many manufacturers have adopted cylinder deactivation technology in their vehicles. Here are some notable examples:
- General Motors: Many GM vehicles, including the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, utilize the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
- Chrysler: The Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger feature the Multi-Displacement System (MDS) that deactivates half of the engine's cylinders.
- Ford: The Ford F-150 with the EcoBoost engine offers a version of cylinder deactivation to enhance fuel efficiency.
- Honda: The Honda Accord V6 models have implemented a similar technology known as Variable Cylinder Management (VCM).
- Volkswagen: Some Volkswagen models, particularly those with larger engines, also incorporate cylinder deactivation features.
Benefits of Cylinder Deactivation
The implementation of cylinder deactivation technology provides several advantages:
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: By deactivating cylinders during low-load conditions, vehicles can achieve better miles per gallon (MPG).
- Reduced Emissions: Lower fuel consumption leads to fewer emissions, making these vehicles more environmentally friendly.
- Enhanced Performance: Drivers can enjoy the power of a larger engine when needed, without sacrificing efficiency during normal driving conditions.
Conclusion
Cylinder deactivation is a remarkable advancement in automotive technology that allows for a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. As more manufacturers adopt this feature, drivers can expect to see improvements in both their driving experience and their vehicle's environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you turn off 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 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.
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.
What cars have a cylinder deactivation system?
Cars with a cylinder deactivation option include the Honda Odyssey, Accord, and Pilot; Volkswagen Polo BlueGT; Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4; Audi A1, A3 and A8 L; as well as the Chevrolet (GM) Impala, Suburban, Silverado, Tahoe, Caprice, Camaro, and Corvette Stingray.
Which engines have cylinder deactivation?
Cars with a cylinder deactivation option include the Honda Odyssey, Accord, and Pilot; Volkswagen Polo BlueGT; Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4; Audi A1, A3 and A8 L; as well as the Chevrolet (GM) Impala, Suburban, Silverado, Tahoe, Caprice, Camaro, and Corvette Stingray.
Is cylinder deactivation bad for your engine?
No, there is no additional wear on the engine components. The system only functions at cruise speeds (usually on the highway) by shutting off the fuel to opposing cylinders in the firing order. The purpose is to save fuel.
What GM vehicles have cylinder deactivation?
Current Vehicle Applications
- Cadillac Escalade with 6.2L V-8 L86.
- Cadillac CT6: Cadillac CT6 with 3.6L V-6 LGX. Cadillac CT6 with 3.0L Twin Turbo V-6 LGW. Cadillac CT6 with 4.2L Twin-Turbo V-8 LTA.
- Cadillac CTS with 3.6L V-6 LGX.
- Cadillac ATS with 3.6L V-6 LGX.
- Cadillac XT5 with 3.6L V-6 LGX.
Who uses cylinder deactivation?
Several automakers have adopted the concept of cylinder deactivation systems, with General Motors calling it Active Fuel Management and Chrysler using the term “multiple displacement system.”
Can Honda cylinder deactivation be turned off?
I know you can buy a switch that by-passes it and essentially turns it off the cylinder deactivation system but it's not problem-proof and can cause error codes to pop-up. I haven't seen anyone mention that the S-VCM system can cause error codes to pop up, and that device has been around the block for a while.
Does cylinder deactivation really save fuel?
A CDS can reduce fuel consumption by 4 to 10%, saving you money and reducing your impact on the environment.
