BostonVette

I hear about torque converter issues being avoided by the use of a AFM eliminator.

Is that true?
Is it due to torque converter lock when in AFM?

Thanks

djnice

kennyjames21

The bottom line is, if you read up on it, AFM is the core problem with most of the C7s drivetrain issues. It most often is used with the A8s, which is why the A8s are showing the most problems. AFM is a freaking disaster but GM keeps going with it because of the meager fuel savings due to all the laws associated with it and the fact they've probably invested a ton of money into it, but it's definitely not a good thing for we consumers. There are videos of the head engineer talking about how they had to strengthen the driveshaft because running in v4 mode creates insane amounts of vibration. It's just a terrible technology - it basically destroys the longevity of the drivetrain for almost imperceptible fuel savings, on a sports car.

falcon5619

Agreed, this is how politics/CAFE stuff just ruins a good thing. I wonder why Ford hasn't done this V4/AFM crap in there Mustangs. Maybe they can get buy without having to do it based on the MPG average across the entire fleet?

speed4tu

That could be true. It will probably change when they do away with all cars except mustang and the focus tho.

Rebel Yell

There's really no evidence that a disabler will save us A8 owners. But, I have one for the peace of mind, and surprisingly the trans operation is much smoother all around.

iclick

I tend to disagree that AFM is the cause of TC issues because my 2015 A8 shuttered from Day 1 with <50 miles on the clock. Most owners seem to report it later on after at least 5k miles. It was sporadic and rare after the first day but got worse, finally prompting a TC swap and 3x flush after about two years. With my car the shuttering and tach oscillation only happened in AFM mode, as is the usual syndrome.

djnice

I have seen people report they turn off afm from day 1 and the trans is fine for a while, but eventually has the same problems.

Dcasole

I agree , I bough a Range Device and have not looked back

Dave

tcinla

I didn't put the Range on until I had about 9k miles. Every now and then I get a loud hum noise coming from under or rear (diff), i don't know which but it's worrisome. It's intermittent, though. I was scheduled to go into the dealer to have them inspect it for TC issues but I decided not to as I don't want the tranny torn apart and have other issues introduced.

kennyjames21

I haven't seen anyone who turned off AFM from day one report a tranny or drivetrain issue - can you link us to any of these reports?

Dcasole

Same here although I am sure you can dig up some but for the most part everybody who installed a range is happy with it

I waited till they solved the battery draw issues with the latest release. I even brought the switched cord but so far I have not needed it .

I am very happy with the range and the way my car runs now

Dave

Gearhead Jim

Kind of reminds me of the 4+3 Nash transmission on the early C4's.
Not a complete disaster, but a bad idea and PITA.

rmorin1249

The A8 tranny and driveline issues have ruined my owner experience. Just wasted 2 more weeks trying to resolve my issues with local dealer. Total failure even after getting GM TAC involved. Everyone denies there are issues. I'm dumping the car in a few months and moving on. Very disappointed.

AORoads

Now that's funny! Only took GM about 27+/- years to put a real 7-speed manual in the Corvette.

Jmhornz71

Yes but they still have the stupid 1-4 skip shift, but its cheap and easy to bypass

kennyjames21

That sucks man I'm sorry you're having so many problems. The worst part is how dealerships/car companies just flat out refuse to fix issues with their products that are widely known like this. Ford lost me as a customer with some issues they had with their mustangs that they just flat out refused to fix/repair/replace. And then if you try to fight them legally it's like david vs goliath without the happy ending. If I could find a car company that would actually back their products I'd be interested in giving them a try. Until then, I'll just buy cars knowing that ultimately I will have to deal with any issues they are going to have, because warranties are almost useless at this point because even if the company agrees to honor them, then you have to be worried that the fix will be done right at one of their questionable dealerships. Bottom line is, the whole situation stinks.

Rebel Yell

I certainly understand your displeasure Randall. But, before you jump ship completely please consider a newer model Vette. You never know, that perfect Base model, Grand Sport, or Z06 could out there waiting for you. I for one would miss your intelligence here on the forum.

rmorin1249

I do need to calm down before I make a mistake I'll regret. Took a nice ride today in my Corvette and really enjoyed it. Top off, beautiful weather and nice roads. When it performs well I love it. I'm waiting on the new Z4 and also want to test drive a Cayman. Thanks for your kind words. I'll take a deep breath.

NSC5

Randall, What specific issues are you having with your A8?

I can certainly understand your frustration but I would hate to see you give up a car you like if the issues can be resolved.