Active Fuel Management
March 27, 2025
What is AFM? – Active Fuel Management (AFM)
Active Fuel Management (AFM) is a technology developed by General Motors (GM) designed to improve fuel efficiency in certain engines. It works by deactivating half of the engine’s cylinders when full power isn’t needed, such as during highway cruising or light acceleration. This helps reduce fuel consumption by using fewer cylinders, and then reactivating them when more power is required, like during heavy acceleration. AFM is typically found in V6 and V8 engines, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
While Active Fuel Management (AFM) can improve fuel efficiency, it can come with issues, including:
- Lifter and Valve Train Wear: The AFM system relies on deactivating and reactivating cylinders, which puts additional stress on the lifters and valve components. Over time, this can lead to premature wear and potential engine noise or even failure of the AFM components.
- Oil Consumption: AFM can cause increased oil consumption in some engines. This happens because the lifters used in the AFM system may not seal perfectly, allowing oil to escape into the combustion chamber, which can lead to engine knocking or damage over time.
- Activation/Deactivation Issues: The system’s transitions between active and deactivated cylinders need to be smooth, but sometimes the transitions can cause hesitation, rough idling, or a noticeable change in engine performance. This can be frustrating for drivers who notice it.
You might ask, what can I do to help prevent such issues from happening? To try and help ensure that your engine runs as smoothly as possible, stay on top of regular maintenance. Because AFM can increase oil consumption, regular oil changes with high-quality oil will help keep the engine lubricated properly. With that being said, it won’t hurt to monitor oil levels as well by checking the oil level on the dipstick. If you do hear unusual engine noise or have a check engine light on, do not let it linger. Take it in to get it looked at. The longer you wait, the more costly it could become.
What vehicles are affected by AFM and how do I know if my GM vehicle has it? GM (General Motors) products are most notoriously impacted by AFM. These include Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick, primarily with V8 and V6 engines. Most often found in larger, more performance-oriented, fuel-hungry vehicles such as trucks and full-size SUVs where it helps improve fuel efficiency. To know if your vehicle has AFM, you can check the engine specifications in the owner’s manual or consult with your local mechanic.
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Is your car's air conditioning blowing weak or not at all? It might be time for a blower motor replacement. At PROFIX Auto Repair, we specialize in getting your vehicle’s AC back to delivering that crisp, cool air you need, especially in the summer heat. The blower motor is the heart of your car’s AC system, pushing air through the vents to keep you comfortable. When it fails, you might notice reduced airflow, strange noises, or no air at all. Our expert technicians at PROFIX quickly diagnose the issue, checking for faulty motors, resistors, or wiring. We use high-quality replacement parts to ensure lasting performance and get you back on the road in no time. Why choose PROFIX? We offer fast, reliable service, transparent pricing, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Don’t sweat it out—bring your vehicle to PROFIX Auto Repair for top-notch blower motor replacement and drive cool and comfortable again! Schedule or call 405-310-2279
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Keep Your Cool: How PROFIX Auto Repair Restores Your Car’s A/C Performance At PROFIX Auto Repair, we know how unbearable a hot car can be, especially when your air conditioning starts acting up. If your A/C is blowing warm air or just not cooling like it used to, don’t sweat it—our expert technicians have you covered. Here’s a look at our thorough A/C service process to get your car’s cooling system back in top shape. Step 1: Initial Inspection and Diagnosis When you bring your vehicle to PROFIX, we start with a comprehensive inspection. Our technicians listen to your concerns—whether it’s weak airflow, strange noises, or warm air coming from the vents. We then perform a visual check of the A/C system, looking for obvious issues like damaged hoses, loose connections, or debris in the condenser. Using advanced diagnostic tools, we measure the system’s pressure and temperature to pinpoint the root cause, whether it’s a refrigerant leak, a faulty compressor, or a clogged filter. Step 2: Refrigerant Check and Recharge Low refrigerant is one of the most common reasons for poor A/C performance. At PROFIX, we check the refrigerant level and inspect for leaks. If the level is low, we safely recover any remaining refrigerant, repair any leaks (like a damaged O-ring or hose), and recharge the system with the correct amount of manufacturer-approved refrigerant. We also add a special dye to detect any future leaks, ensuring long-lasting performance. Step 3: Component Testing and Repair Your A/C system has several key components, including the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and expansion valve. We test each one to ensure it’s functioning properly. For example, a failing compressor clutch might prevent the system from cooling, or a clogged condenser could restrict airflow. If we find a faulty part, we’ll explain the issue and replace it with high-quality components, backed by PROFIX’s commitment to durability and reliability. Step 4: Cabin Air Filter Replacement A dirty cabin air filter can reduce airflow and make your A/C work harder, leading to poor cooling and musty odors. We inspect and replace the filter if needed, ensuring clean, fresh air circulates through your vehicle. This simple step can make a big difference in your A/C’s efficiency and your driving comfort. Step 5: System Performance Test Once repairs are complete, we run a final performance test to confirm your A/C is blowing cold air consistently. We check vent temperatures, system pressure, and overall operation to ensure everything meets our high standards. Our goal at PROFIX is to leave you with an A/C system that keeps you cool no matter how hot it gets outside. Step 6: Preventive Maintenance Tips Before you hit the road, we share tips to maintain your A/C’s performance, like running the system regularly (even in cooler months) to keep components lubricated, parking in shaded areas to reduce heat buildup, and scheduling annual A/C checkups at PROFIX to catch issues early. Why Choose PROFIX Auto Repair? At PROFIX, we’re more than just an auto repair shop—we’re your trusted partner in keeping your vehicle comfortable and reliable. Our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art equipment and follow a meticulous process to restore your A/C’s performance. Plus, we pride ourselves on transparent pricing, honest recommendations, and a customer-first approach. Is your car’s A/C not performing well? Don’t let the heat get you down. Schedule an appointment with PROFIX Auto Repair today, and let us bring the chill back to your ride. Stay cool, and drive happy.
Car Air Conditioning Woes? Signs of a Failed Condenser and How PROFIX Auto Repair Can Help At PROFIX Auto Repair, we know how brutal it can be to drive without a working air conditioner, especially in the scorching heat. Your car’s AC system is complex, and one of the most critical components is the condenser. When it fails, your AC can go from icy cool to blowing hot air. In this blog post, we’ll break down the symptoms of a failed condenser and explain how our expert team at PROFIX can get your AC back in top shape with a professional condenser replacement. What Does the AC Condenser Do? The condenser is like the radiator of your car’s air conditioning system. It’s responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from inside your vehicle by cooling and condensing the refrigerant into a liquid form. If the condenser is damaged or fails, your AC system can’t cool the air effectively, leaving you sweating behind the wheel. Symptoms of a Failed AC Condenser Here are the telltale signs that your car’s AC condenser might be on the fritz: Warm Air from Vents If your AC is blowing warm or lukewarm air instead of cold, the condenser may not be doing its job. A clogged, damaged, or failed condenser can’t properly cool the refrigerant, leading to poor AC performance. Reduced Cooling Efficiency Does your AC take forever to cool down the cabin, or does it only get “kind of cool”? This could point to a condenser that’s struggling to dissipate heat, often due to blockages or internal damage. Refrigerant Leaks A damaged condenser can develop leaks, causing refrigerant to escape. You might notice oily spots under your car or a hissing sound near the front of the vehicle. Low refrigerant levels will make your AC system work harder and cool less effectively. Overheating While Idling Since the condenser relies on airflow to function (often aided by a cooling fan), you might notice your AC works better when driving but fails when you’re stuck in traffic. This could indicate a condenser issue or a related problem, like a faulty fan. Visible Damage or Debris The condenser is located at the front of your car, making it vulnerable to road debris, rocks, or corrosion. Bent fins, dents, or clogs from dirt and bugs can reduce its efficiency or cause it to fail entirely. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—bring your vehicle to PROFIX Auto Repair for a thorough inspection! Why Replace a Failed Condenser? A faulty condenser doesn’t just make your car uncomfortable; it can strain other AC components, like the compressor, leading to more expensive repairs down the road. Replacing a failed condenser restores your AC’s ability to cool effectively, improves fuel efficiency (since the system won’t overwork itself), and ensures you stay comfortable no matter the weather. The Condenser Replacement Process at PROFIX At PROFIX Auto Repair, we take the hassle out of AC repairs. Here’s what you can expect when you bring your vehicle to us for a condenser replacement: Diagnosis Our certified technicians start by inspecting your AC system to confirm the condenser is the culprit. We’ll check for leaks, blockages, or physical damage and test the system’s performance. Refrigerant Recovery Before any repairs, we safely remove and store the refrigerant from your AC system using specialized equipment to comply with environmental regulations. Condenser Removal We carefully remove the old condenser, which is typically located in front of the radiator. This may involve removing parts like the front grille or bumper for access. Installation of a New Condenser We install a high-quality replacement condenser that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s specifications. At PROFIX, we use trusted parts to ensure long-lasting performance. System Recharge and Testing After installation, we recharge the AC system with the correct amount of refrigerant and test it to ensure it’s blowing cold air. We also check for leaks and verify that all components are working in harmony. Final Inspection We double-check everything to make sure your AC is running at peak performance before handing the keys back to you. Why Choose PROFIX Auto Repair? At PROFIX, we’re not just about fixing cars—we’re about giving you peace of mind. Our team of experienced technicians uses state-of-the-art tools and follows industry best practices to deliver reliable repairs. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and getting the job done right the first time. Preventative Tips to Keep Your AC Condenser in Top Shape To avoid condenser issues in the future, try these tips: Keep It Clean: Regularly check for debris like leaves or dirt clogging the condenser fins. A gentle rinse with a hose can help (but avoid high-pressure water). Schedule Routine AC Maintenance : Bring your vehicle to PROFIX for periodic AC system checks to catch issues early. Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in a garage or shaded area to reduce exposure to extreme heat and debris. Don’t Sweat It—Let PROFIX Fix It! A failed AC condenser can turn your car into an oven, but PROFIX Auto Repair is here to help. If you’re noticing warm air, strange smells, or any other signs of AC trouble, schedule an appointment with us today. Our team will diagnose the issue and get your air conditioning blowing cold again in no time. Contact PROFIX Auto Repair at 405-310-2279 or visit us at 1121 Rambling Oaks Dr, Norman, OK 73072 to book your AC repair. 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Keep Your Cool: Understanding Car A/C Cooling Fans with PROFIX Auto Repair At PROFIX Auto Repair, we know how crucial a working air conditioning system is, especially during those scorching summer drives. A key component of your car’s A/C system is the cooling fan, which plays a vital role in keeping your vehicle’s cabin comfortable and your engine running smoothly. Let’s dive into what A/C cooling fans do, why they matter, and how PROFIX can help keep your vehicle a/c in top shape. What Are Car A/C Cooling Fans? Your car’s A/C cooling fan, often called a condenser fan, is responsible for pulling air through the A/C condenser to dissipate heat from the refrigerant. This process is essential for cooling the air that blows into your cabin. The cooling fan also helps regulate engine temperatures by assisting the radiator, especially when your vehicle is idling or moving slowly. Without a properly functioning cooling fan, your A/C may blow warm air, and your engine could overheat, leading to costly repairs. At PROFIX, we’ve seen how a small component like the cooling fan can make a big difference in your driving comfort and vehicle performance. Signs Your A/C Cooling Fan Needs Attention How do you know if your cooling fan is on the fritz? Here are some common symptoms to watch for: Warm A/C Air: If your A/C isn’t cooling as it should, especially at low speeds or when idling, the cooling fan might not be working properly. Overheating Engine: A faulty fan can cause your engine to run hotter than normal, especially in traffic or hot weather and when idling. Unusual Noises: Grinding, rattling, or humming sounds from the front of your vehicle could indicate a failing fan motor or debris obstructing the blades. The dreaded Check Engine Light. Yes, some conditions related to the fan can cause a fault and turn on the Check Engine Light. If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to bring your car to PROFIX Auto Repair for a thorough inspection. Why Regular Maintenance Matters At PROFIX, we recommend including your A/C cooling fan in your routine vehicle maintenance. Dirt, debris, or wear and tear can reduce the fan’s efficiency over time. Our expert technicians will check for: Fan Operation: Ensuring the fan kicks on when needed and runs at the correct speed. Electrical Connections: Inspecting wiring and relays to prevent intermittent failures. Blade Condition: Checking for cracks, chips, or obstructions that could hinder performance. Debris in your A/C condenser and/or radiator deducting the air flow and heat transfer. A quick check-up can prevent bigger problems down the road, saving you time and money. Trust PROFIX for Your A/C Repair and Maintenance Needs At PROFIX Auto Repair, we’re committed to keeping your vehicle cool and reliable. Whether your A/C cooling fan needs a simple cleaning, repair, or replacement, our skilled team uses state-of-the-art tools and genuine parts to get the job done right. We understand how uncomfortable a hot car can be, so we prioritize fast, dependable service to get you back on the road in comfort. Stay Cool with PROFIX Don’t let a faulty A/C cooling fan leave you sweating this summer. Schedule an appointment with PROFIX Auto Repair today, and let us ensure your A/C system is ready to beat the heat. Visit our website or call us to book your service. At PROFIX, we’re not just fixing cars—we’re keeping you cool and comfortable, mile after mile.
Common Summer Heat Car Problems and Solutions at PROFIX Auto Repair As summer temperatures soar, your vehicle faces unique challenges that can affect its performance and longevity. At PROFIX Auto Repair, we’re here to help you tackle these issues and keep your car running smoothly. Below, we explore three common car problems caused by summer heat, their symptoms, and how our expert team at PROFIX can address them. Whether you're searching for "auto repair near me" or "summer car maintenance," we’ve got you covered with top-notch service and solutions. 1. Overheating Engine Keywords: car overheating in summer, engine overheating repair, auto repair shop Summer heat puts extra strain on your vehicle’s cooling system, leading to engine overheating—one of the most common issues we see at PROFIX Auto Repair. High temperatures, combined with stop-and-go traffic, can cause your engine to work harder, potentially leading to radiator issues or coolant leaks. Symptoms: Dashboard warning lights, steam from the hood, or a rising temperature gauge. Solution: Our technicians at PROFIX will inspect your radiator, coolant levels, and hoses for leaks or blockages. We’ll perform a cooling system flush or replace faulty components like the thermostat or water pump to prevent further damage. Regular maintenance, such as checking coolant levels before summer road trips, can prevent costly repairs. Search "car overheating repair near me" and trust PROFIX Auto Repair to keep your engine cool. 2. Air Conditioning Failure Keywords: car AC not working, auto AC repair, summer car AC maintenance A malfunctioning air conditioner is a nightmare during scorching summer days. Heat can overwork your car’s AC system, leading to weak airflow or complete failure. At PROFIX, we frequently see issues like low refrigerant levels or compressor problems. Symptoms: Warm air from vents, unusual noises, or foul odors when the AC is on. Solution: Our auto AC repair services include recharging refrigerant, inspecting the compressor, and cleaning or replacing air filters. We ensure your AC delivers crisp, cool air all summer long. Don’t sweat it out—visit PROFIX Auto Repair for fast, reliable car AC repair to stay comfortable on the road. 3. Battery Failure Keywords: car battery replacement, summer car battery issues, auto repair near me Contrary to popular belief, summer heat can be just as damaging to your car’s battery as cold winters. High temperatures accelerate chemical reactions inside the battery, causing it to degrade faster. Symptoms: Slow engine crank, dim headlights, or a dead battery. Solution: At PROFIX, we test your battery’s charge and condition, replacing it if necessary with a high-quality unit suited for summer conditions. We also check your charging system to ensure optimal performance. For "car battery replacement near me," trust PROFIX Auto Repair to keep your vehicle powered up and ready to go. Why Choose PROFIX Auto Repair? At PROFIX Auto Repair, we specialize in diagnosing and fixing summer car problems quickly and affordably. Our skilled technicians use state-of-the-art tools to provide services like cooling system repair, auto AC maintenance, and car battery replacement. Located conveniently for those searching "auto repair shop near me," we’re committed to keeping your vehicle in top shape during the hottest months. Schedule Your Summer Maintenance Today Don’t let summer heat sideline your car. Whether you’re dealing with an overheating engine, a broken AC system, or a failing car battery, PROFIX Auto Repair is your go-to solution. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or visit our shop for expert summer car maintenance. Search "PROFIX Auto Repair" or "auto repair near me" to find us and drive worry-free all summer long!
