TipTSB 19-NA-218 (revised Dec 2020, covers 2019-2021 C8) is official GM procedure for LT2 lifter tick. Cold-start tick disappearing in 30-60 seconds is normal. Persistent warm tick with rough idle or misfire on cylinders 2, 3, 5, or 8 (DFM deactivation cylinders) indicates collapsed DFM lifter. Have dealer follow full TSB sequence
TipRange Technology DFM Disabler (RA003B, OBD-II port) is most popular preventive measure to stop DFM cycling. Critical: 2022.5+ C8s require direct-ECU harness plug version, not OBD-II, due to protocol change. For free DFM disabling, Track Mode or Manual Mode in drive mode selector suppresses DFM activation
NoteLT2 DFM deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 - all 8 lifters are collapsible AFM-style and all subject to failure. Driving with collapsed DFM lifter bends pushrod, damages camshaft lobe, and can drop valve debris into cylinder - converting $2,000-3,000 lifter repair into full engine replacement. Do not delay diagnosis on persistent misfire