Does A 2019 Chevy Silverado 15000 Have Afm System?

Thinking about buying a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 and wondering, does a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 have AFM system? You’re not alone.

Lots of folks are curious about Active Fuel Management (AFM) and its impact on fuel economy and engine performance in these trucks.

Let’s dive into whether the 2019 Silverado 1500 incorporates this technology and what it means for you.

Understanding Active Fuel Management (AFM) in Chevy Silverados

Active Fuel Management, or AFM, is a fuel-saving technology GM uses in its trucks and SUVs.

It’s designed to improve gas mileage by deactivating some of the engine’s cylinders when full power isn’t needed.

Think of it like this: when you’re cruising down the highway, your truck doesn’t need all eight cylinders firing to maintain speed.

AFM shuts down half of them, turning your V8 into a V4 temporarily to conserve fuel.

This process is seamless and automatic, switching back to V8 mode when you need extra power for acceleration or towing.

The real question is, was AFM standard equipment on the 2019 Silverado 1500, and if not, which engines had it?

Does the 2019 Silverado 1500 Utilize AFM Technology?

Yes, the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 **can** have Active Fuel Management (AFM), but it depends on the engine you choose.

Not every engine option in the 2019 Silverado lineup came standard with AFM.

Here’s a breakdown:

• 5.3L V8 Engine: Most 2019 Silverado 1500s equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine **did** have AFM. However, some versions of this engine used a newer system called Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), which is more advanced.
• 6.2L V8 Engine: The powerful 6.2L V8 engine also featured fuel-saving cylinder deactivation, but again, some used AFM and others used the more sophisticated DFM.
• 4.3L V6 Engine & 2.7L Turbo Engine: These engines typically **did not** feature AFM.

To be certain about the specific truck you’re considering, check the window sticker or the engine code.

This will tell you exactly which engine is installed and whether it uses AFM or DFM.

Understanding the difference between AFM and DFM is also important, as it impacts the driving experience and fuel economy.

AFM vs. DFM: What’s the Difference?

While both AFM and DFM aim to improve fuel economy through cylinder deactivation, they operate differently.

AFM (Active Fuel Management) deactivates a fixed set of cylinders (usually four in a V8 engine) in a pre-determined pattern.

DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management), on the other hand, is more sophisticated.

It can deactivate **any** combination of cylinders, allowing for more precise adjustments based on driving conditions.

This leads to potentially better fuel economy and a smoother transition between cylinder activation modes.

Think of AFM as an on/off switch for four cylinders, while DFM is a dimmer switch, allowing for finer control.

Benefits of AFM in Your 2019 Silverado 1500

If your 2019 Silverado 1500 is equipped with AFM, here are some benefits you can expect:

• Improved Fuel Economy: This is the primary goal. By running on fewer cylinders when possible, you’ll save gas, especially during highway driving.
• Reduced Emissions: Lower fuel consumption translates to fewer emissions, making your truck a bit more environmentally friendly.
• Seamless Operation: The transition between V8 and V4 mode is usually very smooth and barely noticeable to the driver.

However, it’s also worth noting that AFM systems have been known to have some potential drawbacks, which we’ll explore later.

Potential Drawbacks and Issues with AFM

While AFM offers fuel-saving benefits, it’s not without its potential downsides:

• “AFM Lifter Failure”: Some owners have reported issues with the AFM lifters, which are responsible for deactivating the cylinders. These lifters can fail, leading to engine problems.
• Oil Consumption: Some AFM-equipped engines have been known to consume more oil than non-AFM engines.
• “Shudder” or Vibration: Some drivers have reported a slight shudder or vibration when the engine transitions between V8 and V4 mode.

These issues are not universal, but they’re worth being aware of if you’re considering a 2019 Silverado 1500 with AFM.

Addressing these potential problems proactively, such as through regular maintenance and potentially disabling the AFM system, can help mitigate risks.

How to Tell if Your 2019 Silverado 1500 Has AFM

Here are a few ways to determine if your 2019 Silverado 1500 has Active Fuel Management:

1. Check the Window Sticker: The original window sticker (if available) will list the engine specifications and any fuel-saving technologies.
2. Look for the Engine Code: The engine code is usually located on a sticker in the glove box or under the hood. Research the engine code online to determine if it’s an AFM-equipped engine.
3. Observe the Driver Information Center: Some Silverado models will display a message indicating when the engine is running in V4 mode.

Knowing whether your truck has AFM will help you understand its fuel-saving capabilities and any potential maintenance considerations.

So, to answer your initial question definitively, yes, a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 **can** have an AFM system, depending on the engine configuration.

So, to answer your initial question definitively, yes, a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 **can** have an AFM system, depending on the engine configuration.

Disabling AFM on Your 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500: Should You Do It?

Okay, so you know your 2019 Silverado 1500 might have the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, but maybe you’re worried about those potential issues I mentioned.

You’re probably wondering, “Should I disable AFM on my 2019 Silverado 1500?”

It’s a valid question.

Disabling AFM is a common topic among Silverado owners, and there are a few ways to go about it.

Let’s break down the pros and cons, and how you might approach this decision.

Why Consider Disabling AFM in Your 2019 Silverado 1500?

Here’s the deal: some people disable AFM because they’re concerned about long-term reliability, specifically the potential for AFM lifter failure, increased oil consumption, or that annoying “shudder” feeling.

Essentially, they see it as a preventative measure.

Think of it as buying insurance for your engine.

By keeping all eight cylinders firing all the time, you eliminate the stress and wear associated with the constant switching between V8 and V4 modes which can improve engine life.

Some people just don’t like the way AFM feels.

They prefer the consistent power delivery of all eight cylinders.

Methods for Disabling AFM on a 2019 Silverado 1500

There are a few primary ways to disable AFM on your 2019 Silverado 1500.

• AFM Disabling Devices: These are plug-and-play devices that connect to your truck’s diagnostic port (OBD-II port). They essentially “trick” the engine into thinking it always needs all eight cylinders, effectively disabling AFM.
• Custom Tuning: A custom tune reprograms your truck’s engine control unit (ECU) to disable AFM and potentially optimize other performance parameters. This is a more involved option but can offer more control.
• Mechanical Delete: This is the most drastic (and expensive) option. It involves physically replacing the AFM lifters with non-AFM lifters. This is usually done when an AFM lifter has already failed.

Each method has its pros and cons, so you’ll need to weigh them carefully.

Choosing the Right AFM Disabling Method for Your Silverado

So, which method should you choose?

That depends on your comfort level, budget, and goals.

If you’re looking for a simple, non-invasive solution, an AFM disabling device is probably your best bet.

If you want more control over your truck’s performance and are comfortable with engine tuning, a custom tune might be a better option.

And if you’re already dealing with a failed AFM lifter, a mechanical delete might be necessary.

Always consult with a qualified mechanic before making any modifications to your truck’s engine.

Potential Downsides of Disabling AFM

While disabling AFM can offer peace of mind, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides.

• Reduced Fuel Economy: This is the most obvious drawback. Without AFM, your truck will always run on all eight cylinders, which will consume more fuel.
• Potential Warranty Issues: Disabling AFM could potentially void your truck’s powertrain warranty, especially if you use a custom tune. Check with your dealer before making any modifications.
• Resale Value: Some buyers might be wary of a truck that has had its AFM system disabled.

Weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance for AFM-Equipped Silverados

Regardless of whether you choose to disable AFM or not, regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your 2019 Silverado 1500 running smoothly.

This includes:

• Regular Oil Changes: Use the correct type of oil and change it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Proper Cooling System Maintenance: Keep your cooling system in good condition to prevent overheating, which can stress the engine.
• Fuel System Maintenance: Use quality fuel and replace the fuel filter as needed.

Good maintenance practices can help prevent many of the issues associated with AFM.

Alternatives to Disabling AFM: Other Ways to Improve Fuel Economy

If you’re primarily concerned about fuel economy, there are other things you can do besides disabling AFM.

• Drive Conservatively: Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking.
• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires reduce fuel economy.
• Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary items from your truck.

These simple steps can make a noticeable difference in your gas mileage.

Understanding Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) in 2019 Silverados

Remember I mentioned Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) earlier?

Some 2019 Silverado 1500s, particularly those with the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines, might have DFM instead of AFM.

DFM is a more advanced system that offers even greater fuel-saving potential.

Instead of deactivating a fixed set of cylinders, DFM can deactivate any combination of cylinders, allowing for more precise fuel management.

If your truck has DFM, you might not need to worry as much about the potential drawbacks associated with AFM, as DFM is generally considered to be more reliable.

Final Thoughts: AFM on the 2019 Silverado 1500

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to disable AFM on your 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 is a personal one.

Weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks carefully, consider your driving habits and maintenance practices, and consult with a trusted mechanic.

By understanding the AFM system and its potential issues, you can make an informed decision that’s right for you and your truck.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people ask about AFM and the 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500:

• Will disabling AFM void my warranty? It might. Check with your dealer to be sure. Custom tuning is more likely to cause warranty issues than a plug-and-play disabling device.
• How much fuel economy will I lose if I disable AFM? It depends on your driving habits, but you can expect to see a decrease of 1-3 MPG.
• Is DFM better than AFM? Generally, yes. DFM is a more advanced and refined system that offers better fuel economy and is often considered more reliable.
• Can I re-enable AFM after disabling it? Yes, if you use an AFM disabling device or a custom tune. A mechanical delete is permanent.
• What are the symptoms of AFM lifter failure? Common symptoms include a ticking noise from the engine, misfires, and a loss of power.

Remember to do your research and talk to a qualified professional before making any decisions about your truck.

So, if you are concerned whether a 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500 has an AFM system and whether you should disable it, now you have more clarity.

“`json

“`