Semiconductor shortage is showing long term consequences.

Hey folks,

I saw this in the news today: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-gm-semiconductors-idUSKBN2B71P5

tl;dr Reuters reports that GM is building some trucks without a fuel management module because they can't get the chips for them. These trucks are supposed to get one less (-1) MPG for the life of the vehicle, compared to an identical truck WITH the FMM installed.

Pure, cynical speculation on my part says that 1) it's probably way more than 1 MPG outside of the EPA test routine, and 2) if these trucks even can get a FMM added later, want to bet that it's gonna be a real pain? I would take a bare guess and say it's gonna require a special kit and wiring harness stuff, because why wouldn't it? Ha!

 

I'll be cynical too and ask why they didn't get rid of the OnStar module, or maybe the unnecessary electronic nannies?

Seriously though, I am guessing the lack of active fuel management is equivalent to having a CEL on and the ECM going into "open loop". It would operate on a preprogrammed A/F ratio rather than having inputs from the MAF and O2 sensors. Slightly less efficient, but safer for the engine since it will be running a little rich all the time. Might actually increase longevity of the engine overall.

Edit:. Oh wait, is this the system that deactivates cylinders? If so, nevermind what I said.

 

I'm going to be cynical as well and say I'd bet that 5.3 V8 still gets better or as good a MPG as my Tacoma, even without active fuel management.