Umair Ramzan 
CAGS, or Computer-Aided Gear Selection, is a feature found on specific General Motors vehicles equipped with the 4L60-E or 4L80-E automatic transmission. CAGS aims to improve fuel economy by skipping a gear during certain driving conditions.
How CAGS works
The CAGS system uses a combination of inputs, including vehicle speed, throttle position, and engine load, to determine when to skip a gear. For example, when a vehicle is driving at a low speed, and the accelerator pedal is lightly pressed, CAGS will cause the transmission to skip from first gear to fourth gear rather than shifting through the intermediate gears of second and third. This allows the engine to operate at a lower RPM, which improves fuel economy.
The CAGS system is activated when the following conditions are met:
- The vehicle is moving at a speed of less than 25 mph.
- The accelerator pedal is pressed less than 25% to the floor.
- The transmission is in the first gear.
CAGS is disabled when:
- The vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph.
- The accelerator pedal is pressed more than 25% to the floor.
- The transmission is not in the first gear.
CAGS and Diablo Tuner
A Diablo Tuner is an aftermarket performance tuner that allows a user to reprogram the engine control module (ECM) of their vehicle to improve performance. Some Diablo Tuners can disable the CAGS system, improving performance by allowing the transmission to shift through all gears rather than skipping a gear. This can be especially beneficial for vehicles frequently driven in performance-oriented conditions, such as on the track or a winding road.
FAQs
What is CAGS?
CAGS stands for Computer-Aided Gear Selection. It is a feature on certain General Motors vehicles equipped with the 4L60-E or 4L80-E automatic transmission. CAGS aims to improve fuel economy by skipping a gear during certain driving conditions.
How does CAGS work?
The CAGS system uses a combination of inputs, including vehicle speed, throttle position, and engine load, to determine when to skip a gear. When the vehicle is driving at a low speed and the accelerator pedal is lightly pressed, CAGS will cause the transmission to skip from first gear to fourth gear rather than shifting through the intermediate gears of second and third.
Can I disable CAGS on my vehicle?
Some aftermarket performance tuners, like the Diablo Tuner, can disable the CAGS system. This can improve performance by allowing the transmission to shift through all gears rather than skipping a gear. However, disabling CAGS will decrease fuel efficiency.
How will disabling CAGS improve performance?
Disabling CAGS will allow the transmission to shift through all gears instead of skipping one. It will improve the vehicle’s performance when driven in performance-oriented conditions, such as on the track or a winding road.
Are there any downsides to disabling CAGS?
Yes, disabling CAGS will decrease fuel efficiency. It may also affect the longevity of the transmission if driven excessively.
Will disabling CAGS void my vehicle’s warranty?
Disabling the CAGS system with a Diablo Tuner or other aftermarket performance tuner may void certain parts of your vehicle’s warranty, such as the transmission. It’s always a good idea to check your warranty and consult a professional before modifying your vehicle.
Will I notice a difference in driving when CAGS is disabled?
You may notice a difference in driving when CAGS is disabled, especially in performance-oriented conditions such as acceleration or winding roads. The transmission will shift through all the gears instead of skipping a gear, which can result in a more responsive and sporty feel. However, keep in mind that disabling CAGS will decrease fuel efficiency.
Are there any other ways to disable CAGS other than using a Diablo Tuner?
There are other ways to disable CAGS, such as reprogramming the engine control module (ECM) with different software or physically disconnecting the CAGS solenoid. These methods are only recommended if performed by a professional with proper training and expertise.
Can I re-enable CAGS after disabling it with a Diablo Tuner?
After disabling it with a Diablo Tuner, you can re-enable CAGS by reprogramming the ECM to its original settings or reconnecting the CAGS solenoid. However, remember that re-enabling CAGS will restore fuel efficiency but could also bring back CAGS-related issues like poor performance.
Can I use a Diablo Tuner for other performance upgrades on my vehicle?
The Diablo Tuner is a versatile tool that can be used for various performance upgrades on a vehicle. This can include adjusting the vehicle’s shift points, increasing horsepower and torque, and disabling specific factory emissions controls. Keep in mind that any modification you make may impact your vehicle warranty.
