I'll be looking at an '08 LT Silverado for my son. It's got 160K miles on a 5.3.

I had an '08 Z71 Avalanche with the 5.3 for a few years. It ran fine but the #7 plug would get fouled and throw a code. I'd either clean it or replace that one plug. The #1 plug would get pretty dirty too.

I forgot all about the AFM thing until I came here poking around. I know it can be disabled with plug in device. But the lifters/parts would still be there with 160K miles on them.

Is it worth looking at a used AFM truck with this kind of mileage? I don't mind tinkering and doing some maintenance but getting into the engine is probably not something I want to get into. I already have an old Mustang that needs finishing.

Opinions on picking up an '08 5.3 with 160K miles please.

 

I wouldn't. Especially with that many miles.
The gadget might disable AFM, but it doesn't fix the engine. My bro had the disabler from new and the engine still puked a rod at 60k.

If your son realistically need a truck (not just for looks), then at least get a HD model.

 

He's 16 and doesn't "need" a truck. He just needs something to drive himself to school and work. I was actually looking for a Ranger SuperCab or Colorado. But this Extend cab Silverado popped up in our price range ($6K). A car would be much more practical, but I'm not always practical when it comes to vehicles.

 

I have a 2008 Siliverado with the AFM still active. It has 181,000 miles on it, and still runs great. I wouldn't worry about it. You only hear about the ones that fail, but there are millions on the road.

 

It's bad enough that GM put out bulletins, and people got together to sue GM. It's bad enough that remanufacturing companies delete it.
Your call, but why gamble with your hard earned money, when you can just buy something that doesn't have the defect to begin with? It's not the only pickup.
180k isn't that much. If it failed tomorrow, it would still be a massive hit to the wallet, and big disappointment of a truck.

 

I decided AFM is a no go. He's excited and I want this to be a good experience for him.