Quote:
Originally Posted by Low Saturn
Under real world everyday driving conditions on a daily driven Camaro with the L99, I consistently get better MPG and better throttle response with the AFM disabled. I'm currently using the Range AFM disabler, but plan on a tune in the future.
I purchased my Camaro in December of 2013 and drove it with AFM active until September of 2014. In September I installed a catback exhaust and decided to disable AFM because of the drone when it enabled.
Since the day I purchased the car I have been tracking MPG. Mostly because I planned on eventually getting an aftermarket exhaust system and knew the effects on the tone of the exhaust on a L99 and that I would tune out AFM. So I wanted to see for myself the results. I also wanted to see the difference in MPG from my previous car. From December 2013 to September 2014, with an even mix of highway/city driving with a 22 mile round trip commute, I averaged 16.9 mpg. From September 2013 until now, under the same exact driving conditions and commute, I average 17.2 mpg. Not a huge difference, but there is a difference. Plus the exhaust tone is better and the power is there when I need it.
They claim going from four cylinder mode to eight is instantaneous. It may be electronically, but mechanically, that is far from being the case. Until they can get AFM to give significantly better MPG in the real world and have it change modes instantly mechanically, I'd say GM's AFM technology is a failure. At least in the Camaro.
Under optimal conditions, on a closed course, with a professional driver, driving the car in a way what optimizes the way the system works, it may actually work. But who drives like that? Especially a V8 muscle car?
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Sorry, but from a technology standpoint your calling this a FAIL is simply wrong. Your opinion counts. But the governments counts more..........wait theirs is fact not opinion.
AFM gives, as I recall, only about 1 mpg or so and that is all it took to avoid the GG tax.
Look, I agree, it is NOT seamless. There is a reason why the L99 Camaro has 4 (check me) flex couplings in the exhaust. The first G8 CTF I drove to Florida was a nightmare to drive in mountains in 4 cylinder mode. I HATE AFM!!!!!
Buuuuuut data and fact suggest the technology works and that is why GM uses it, Fiat uses it and so does Honda. That is my only point. AFM saves fuel. I just get tired of people claiming science and fact or invalid.
Also please note.....................YOU MODDED YOUR CAR so comparing FE before and after is only a comparison of your car. A lower restriction exhaust alone (which GM can't do for noise regulations) would likely improve your FE.
For reference, my SS in the real world on the highway gets 21............with a tail wind. Every L99 Camaro I've driven can do 23 or 24. Again, anecdotal, but from my experience, it makes a difference.
So I agree...................IT SUCKS.
But it delivers better FE.