GM 2.7 Turbo Engine Problems

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The GM 2.7 Turbo engine first appeared in 2019, offering a solid base to the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado 1500. It was made for trucks but has also fit inside other vehicles shells from GM. Like all car components, it’s critical to consider everything before buying. You might wonder - are there any significant GM 2.7 turbo engine problems?

If you’re interested in learning more about the issues that appear in the GM 2.7 Turbo Engine, you’re in the right place. The more you know about this system, the less surprising it will be when these issues appear. Read on to learn more about four of the most common troubles in the GM 2.7 Turbo engine’s lifespan. 

The Most Common GM 2.7 Turbo Engine Problems:

  • Carbon Buildup. Cost to fix: $175-$450
  • Issues With Fuel Economy. Cost to fix: $400-$800
  • Injector Failure. Cost to fix: $300-$900
  • AFM System Failure. Cost to fix: $1,000-$2,000

Carbon Buildup

Problem:

Vehicles that provide direct injection tend to suffer from carbon buildup as time goes on. The fuel sprays right into the engine cylinder, which saves time, but leaves deposits from blowby gasses on the ports and various intake valves. In time, these can grow to a level that becomes a pain to handle while driving. They can stop fuel from getting into the system.

Symptoms of significant carbon buildup in your vehicle include heavy exhaust fumes, reduced efficiency, an illuminated check engine light, poor acceleration, an engine misfiring situation, and more. Carbon buildup will typically sneak up on you, so a professional might need to take a look for prevention in the future.


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Cost:

If you want to pay to deal with the GM 2.7 turbo engine problems, it will cost you around $175-$450 to deal with the carbon buildup depending on the severity of the issue and the experience level of the person completing the removal process. Walnut blasting is one of the most effective removal methods for carbon buildup.

Issues With Fuel Economy

Problem:

Although not technically an engine problem that needs repair, there are issues with fuel economy in the GM 2.7 Turbo. This issue is unfortunate, as a big selling point for this component was its ability to trek long distances without suffering from an extreme need to refill the tank.

Many drivers report that the issues with the fuel economy stem from the irritating start/stop system inside cars with this engine and the AFM system in the GM 2.7 Turbo Engine. These additional features are meant to help the vehicle, but they end up hindering it more than providing a boost for potential buyers.

Cost:

Ultimately, the reliability of your GM 2.7 Turbo engine depends on how well you maintain it. Unexpected items like the AFM could play a role, but the better care you put into this component, the more mileage you will get out of it. Paying a couple hundred a year for regular maintenance will go a long way to keep your mileage as high as possible with the GM 2.7.

Injector Failure

Problem:

Clogged injectors are another significant issue that appears inside the GM 2.7 Turbo engine. Typically, the injectors inside the system receive exposure to high levels of heat from particulate matter and the combustion chamber. Over time, this exposure might clog the tips of the fuel injectors and prevent them from doing their job. It could even damage them if severe enough.

Indicators of an injector failure thanks to a clog include an illuminated check engine light, reduced performance from the engine, a lean mixture in your fuel, lower fuel efficiency, a crank with no start, and more. If your injectors have no way of putting fuel in the right spot, you’ll struggle to have an efficient drive. The injectors must be cleaned or replaced in time.


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Cost:

If you want to deal with your injector failure, it will cost $300-$900 to clean them off or replace critical components. Again, the cost will vary depending on the person you hire for the job and the severity of the damage. Significant buildup will take much longer to clean than a tiny amount on the tips. Different supplies might also contribute to the total price point.

AFM System Failure

Problem:

Another common issue in the GM 2.7 Turbo engine is a possible failure of the Active Fuel Management system. This component has been around since 2019, with GM attempting to phase it out. Still, the GM 2.7 Turbo engine has the feature and can be problematic – in fact, many people loathe the addition.

There are significant reliability errors in the AFM, which customers often complain about. According to chevytrucks.org, a few of the most common faults in the AFM system include lifters that don’t last very long in real-world conditions, total engine failure, excessive oil consumption, sudden stalling, hesitation when accelerating, and more.

Cost:

If you want to deal with the last on our list of GM 2.7 turbo engine problems, it will cost you $1,000-$2,000. Unfortunately, the AFM tends to act like a built-in time bomb in the GM 2.7 Turbo Engine system. Most warranties should cover repairs, but it’s something valuable to consider before investing in a vehicle with this component built inside its walls.


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Avoiding the GM 2.7 Turbo Engine Problems

The best way for you to avoid the most significant GM 2.7 turbo engine problems is to keep an eye and ear out for engine troubles before they become something more significant. If you’re an experienced car person, watch and wait for serious indications and address them before they spiral out of control.

Of course, not everyone is comfortable around vehicles. If you have no idea what to look for in a broken or faulty engine, ensure you bring your car to a trusted mechanic for an inspection every so often. They will be able to determine if there are any irregularities in your system and what must happen to get everything back in order.

Frequently Asked Questions: GM 2.7 Turbo Engine Problems

Q: What are some of the most prevalent issues associated with the GM 2.7 Turbo engine?

A: The GM 2.7 Turbo engine may experience several common problems, including carbon buildup, poor fuel economy, injector failure, and AFM system failure.

Q: How does carbon buildup affect the GM 2.7 Turbo engine, and what are the symptoms?

A: Due to direct injection, carbon deposits can accumulate on intake valves and ports, potentially causing reduced performance, exhaust fumes, misfiring, and poor acceleration. A check engine light may also illuminate.

Q: Is there a way to address the fuel economy concerns in vehicles equipped with the GM 2.7 Turbo engine?

A: While not a direct engine problem, the GM 2.7 Turbo’s fuel economy issues are often attributed to the start/stop system and the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. Regular maintenance can help mitigate these concerns and improve overall mileage.

Q: Are there any preventive measures I can take to prevent the most critical problems with GM 2.7 Turbo engines?

A: To prevent serious issues, look for early signs of engine trouble and address them promptly. If you’re not comfortable working on vehicles, have a trusted mechanic perform regular inspections to identify and fix any irregularities before they get worse.



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