What year do suburbans have cylinder deactivation?
Chevrolet Suburbans have had cylinder deactivation technology available since the 2019 model year. This feature, also known as Active Fuel Management (AFM), allows the engine to temporarily shut off some of its cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel efficiency.
What is Cylinder Deactivation?
Cylinder deactivation is a fuel-saving technology that temporarily disables some of an engine's cylinders when they are not needed, such as during highway cruising or light-load conditions. This reduces the engine's displacement and decreases the amount of fuel consumed, leading to improved fuel economy.
In the case of the Chevrolet Suburban, the 5.3-liter V8 engine can deactivate up to four of its eight cylinders when the vehicle is operating under light loads. When more power is needed, the deactivated cylinders are quickly re-engaged to provide the full output of the engine.
When Was Cylinder Deactivation Introduced in Suburbans?
Chevrolet first introduced cylinder deactivation technology, branded as Active Fuel Management (AFM), in the Suburban starting with the 2019 model year. This allowed the large SUV to achieve better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
- The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban with the 5.3-liter V8 engine was the first model year to offer cylinder deactivation.
- Prior to 2019, Suburbans did not have this fuel-saving technology available.
- Cylinder deactivation has continued to be an option on Suburban models through the present day.
By selectively shutting off cylinders when they are not needed, the Suburban's engine can operate more efficiently and deliver improved fuel economy, especially during highway driving and other light-load conditions.
What year do suburbans have an AFM?
Plus models but it isn't used on all 2019. Plus models some 2019.
What year did GM add cylinder deactivation?
GM first started using cylinder deactivation in its vehicles with the Cadillac V8-6-4 engine in 1981, though this early system was not fully reliable. The first successful mass-produced system, called Active Fuel Management (AFM), was introduced in 2005.
Early attempts
- 1981 Cadillac V8-6-4: GM introduced a mass-produced cylinder deactivation system in the Cadillac L62 "V8-6-4" engine. The technology was not advanced enough at the time, so the system was unreliable.
Modern systems
- 2005: GM introduced its successful Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which could deactivate half the cylinders in a V8 engine.
- 2007: AFM became more widespread in GM's V8 and V6 engines, appearing in most of the full-size trucks and SUVs starting with the GMT900 platform.
- 2019: GM introduced an upgraded version called Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM). This system can deactivate any combination of cylinders, not just a fixed set, for greater efficiency.
Do all 5.3 have cylinder deactivation?
No, not all 5.3L engines have cylinder deactivation, although most have had it since around 2007. For example, some 2007-2013 models were an exception, and more recently, certain 2021-2022 models were built without it due to chip shortages, a feature often noted on the window sticker as having a credit for the missing system. The engine hardware may still be present, but the active system was temporarily disabled.
Key points about cylinder deactivation in 5.3L engines
- Early models: The first models to feature cylinder deactivation were in the mid-2000s, and it became more widespread in 2007. However, some 2007 "Classic" models were not equipped with it.
- Specific model years: Between 2007 and 2013, cylinder deactivation was a standard feature in the 5.3L, but not on other engines like the 6.2L or 4.8L.
- Recent exceptions: Some 2021-2022 models were produced without the deactivation feature due to the global chip shortage. Owners who have these trucks may have a credit on their window sticker.
- Newer models: Starting around 2019, GM introduced a more advanced Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) system that can deactivate up to seven cylinders dynamically. However, the system can still be affected by engine oil clogs or other issues and some 2021-2022 models were built without it.
- 2026 model year: The 2026 Chevy Silverado is expected to have a 5.3L V8 engine without cylinder deactivation.
What years of suburban to avoid?
You should generally avoid Chevrolet Suburban model years from 2007-2009 and 2015-2017, as these years are frequently cited for significant mechanical issues. The 2007-2009 models are particularly known for problems with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to engine damage, while 2015-2017 models are often associated with issues in the powertrain and other components. Newer models, specifically 2021-2024, have also been subject to recalls for potential engine damage due to defects in connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, according to Cars.com.
Specific model years to avoid:
- 2007-2009: These years are frequently mentioned as problematic due to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and other engine issues.
- 2015-2017: These models are often cited for issues related to the powertrain, and the 8-speed transmission has also been a source of trouble.
- 2021-2024: These newer models have been recalled due to manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, which could lead to engine damage and failure.
Potential issues in other years:
- 2018-2022: Some reported issues include shaking while driving, stiff brake pedals, and check engine lights.
- 2010: Known for transmission slipping and fuel pump failures, which can be avoided with proper maintenance.
- 2004: This model year has had multiple recalls and potential trouble spots, including the transmission and climate control system, according to Consumer Reports and JustAnswer.
