I have been obsessed with Chevy trucks since I started off-road activities. These rug trucks can handle any terrain and road conditions without experiencing a problem.
Thanks to the general motors for producing the best trucks in the market. But the introduction of the Active Fuel Management System (AFM) has posed many challenges for Chevy 2007 to 2011 truck owners. Besides that, the design and build quality has been disappointing in so many ways.
What are Some of the Chevy AFM Problem Years?
The 2007 to 2011 Chevy trucks with AFM systems do experience excessive oil consumption and little mileage coverage. These issues have resulted in high maintenance costs.
If you are looking into buying a Chevy truck or pickup, I recommend going for the modern or latest models in the market. Chevy usually provides cover for AFM problems under the power-train warranty.
The article explains some of the common Chevy AFM problem years in detail to help you make an informed decision before buying. Take the time to read from the start to the end to avoid missing any vital information.
Common Chevrolet AFM Problems
The active Fuel Management system allows the engine to disable half the cylinders at low RPMs to reduce fuel consumption. The system tends to be more effective and efficient in light-road conditions.
I have seen fuel efficiency improvement on my Chevy Silverado truck after testing for a couple of months. But I didn’t know the system result in some long-term issues. Below are some of the Chevy AFM problems that plagued my truck:
Excessive Oil Consumption
Excessive oil consumption is the leading culprit in Chevy motors with the active fuel management system. The issue is common in 2007 to 2013 Chevy trucks or pickups with AFM. The AFM allows excessive passage of oil to get past the piston and enter the combustion chamber.
The excess oil tends to harden and accumulate on pistons to cause further damages. But GMC has introduced troubleshooting tips and techniques of fixing excess oil leaks caused by active fuel management. Besides that, it is covered under the power-train warranty.
Engine Transmission Problem
The introduction of the AFM system was to improve the fuel efficiency of Chevy trucks or pickups. The system works by shutting 50% of engine cylinders under certain driving conditions.
But it causes excessive oil consumption and cylinder damages. The excess oil passing through the pistons usually gets accumulated on the cylinders to cause serious damage in the long run. Damaged cylinders reduce the engine horsepower and torque. The problem tends to make the Chevy truck experience low performance.
AFM Lift Failures
Chevy 2009 to 2015 with AFM system do experience lift failures more often. It occurs due to oil pressure and control problems under certain driving conditions. AFM causes excess oil consumption that leads to depletion without the driver’s notice. The lack of lubrication later causes lift failure.
Poor oil quality is another reputable cause of the issue. Besides that, AFM lifter is a vehicle component that is used more often. The high frequency of usage facilitates faster wear and tear to cause its failure at some point.
Reduced Chevy Truck Mileage Coverage
Chevrolets introduction of this killer feature on the vehicle helps save on fuel while driving in light-road conditions. Besides that, it was meant to improve horsepower and performance.
But the AFM leads to engine misfires due to damaged cylinders. The issue makes the trucks cover lower mileage than expected.
Brand new Chevy 2019 to 2020 trucks covers 60,000 miles instead of 300,000 miles. It happens due to lifter failures and piston or cylinder damage as a result of excess oil consumption. Getting an AFM system delete kit is the only guarantee fix. Do not think about disabling the AFM since it will not resolve the issues.
How to Disable AFM without a Tune?
Many drivers tend to seek professional mechanic assistance to delete or disable AFM settings. If you are looking to save on costs, there are two ways to do it.
Method 1: Install AFM Delete Kit AFM delete kit is highly recommended in case of AFM lift failures and upgrading the vehicle performance. It usually replaces the AFM settings with standard counterparts.
Be sure to upgrade the non-AFM camshaft since the four cylinders have different installation settings. The engine gets 25 fewer pounds of compression in the four cylinders to cause a misfire.
Use a computer programmer to turn off the AFM system for tuning. Remember to plug the pressure relief valve in the oil pan and switch to a standard volume oil pump.
Method 2: Install an AFM Disabler
The electronic device should be plugged into the OBD-II port under the dashboard to prevent the computer system from switching to the four-cylinder model.
The task is a no-brainer and effective way of turning off the AFM system. It provides a bonus to the exhaust sound improvement.
Final Thoughts
Chevrolet AFM problems are inevitable regardless of your truck year of manufacture. The AFM system is intended to improve fuel efficiency. But the system resulted in excessive oil consumption and many engine misfire issues.
Many Chevrolet drivers have opted to delete or disable the AFM components. Most customers have saved on repair and maintenance costs after deleting or disabling the AFM components. But the GMC has included the issue in the power-train warranty.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Active_Fuel_Management
https://www.gmpartsonline.net/blog/engine-oil-consumption-solutions
Tomas is a retired Chevy Auto Technician that brings decades of hands-on experience and expertise to the table. He’s also a father to two incredible daughters. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help you solve and find reliable information on Chevrolet vehicles. Whether it’s troubleshooting engine problems or providing tips for maintenance, Thomas is committed to helping Chevy owners keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.
