caseymaxima

iTrader: (1)

Hi everyone,
I have another issue with my 96 Maxima with 142,000 miles. It seems that the AC compressor is usually always on, even if the AC switch is off and the blower is off. I can start the car at times and hear the AC comp kick on, again even if nothing is on in the hvac system. It is very strange, and I have no clue why it would be doing this. The only time that I would think I might kick on is when the defrost is on (even with the ac switch on?) Any ideas?

Thanks,
Zack

asand1

iTrader: (1)

I believe its a function of the ECM or BCM, keeps things from being stagnant. Sitting for to long is not good for the system, so it cycles once in a while.

Mad Medicine

on defrost its normal. the A/C helps dry the air in the car (its not just for keeping cool) So its perfectly normal.

caseymaxima

iTrader: (1)

But it does it when it is not on defrost as well....

Trini Boom

iTrader: (5)

Only time A/C compressor should engage is when you use Rear Defrost or Front defrost..regardless of it being full cold or hot, the compressor engages. You are probably hearing your fans turn on and off.

mateusz1945

iTrader: (1)

My A/C compressor is always on when climate control is on. even i adjust 85.
and it is not efficient, idle with climate control is about 900 rpm when turn off about 600
what to do? i dont think it is normal?

98 SE 114K climate control

najee1062

When your climate control is off... your compressor should be off. That is not normal for it to run at all times.... The climate control unit might be bad or a malfunction with some switches... The only time I use my compressor is doing the summer for A/C... Your defogger can work without the compressor especially your rear defogger. that is using a heating element on the rear window.

So guy if you compressor is not turning off that is not normal and of course all model don't have climate control but even if it don't your compressor should not run at all times.