Hey guys,
I am curious about what is the problem with my MAXIMA. It runs great when the A/C is off but once I turn on my A/C, the car shuts off and the dashboard lights come on! I went to the dealership here, and they told me that the compressor's oil leaked into the engine or the coils or something like that. Can that happen?? and if not how can I solve this problem?

 

First thing I'd check is the alternator. With the additional load of the AC, your car is acting up. As for what the dealer said, you likely misheard or don't understand what they said, as what you're reporting makes zero sense.

 

I know it makes no sense that’s why I am asking. I will check the alternator.

 

I´m confused, you took your car to a what we believe to be a Nissan dealership´s service department, and paid them for a diagnosis. After diagnosis, your vehicle was not repaired, probably because you did not want to pay to have your A/C compressor and related parts replaced because of the massive cost of the repair. You were told information that you don´t understand, and after paying the bill, you left.

Your A/C compressor has seized up, and does not work when the clutch is energized. It places so much strain on the engine that it shuts off.

There is nothing wrong with your alternator. ¨It runs great when the A/C is off...¨ proves that.

 

Perhaps, but for all we know, his alternator is weak but functional and also utilizing the battery to maintain function (which it obviously shouldn't do). Checking the health of the alternator is free and easy.

But more than likely, you are correct in that the ac compressor is seized and is the source of the problem. What's weird is that the dealer didn't or couldn't clearly explain this....

 

The A/C components were not made to last much more that 6 years. Buying a used Max one should build a reserve fund for the problems coming.

 

I would like to introduce you to my 27 year old 4th gen, still on the original compressor and condenser. The blend door actuator did give out a few months ago but besides that needing replaced it blows ice cold.

 

Exceptional service for parts on an older car built to last! You just won't see that longevity on Nissans latest cars parts. A lifetime to management these days is 100 K miles or less.

 

Mine going on 16 with 117,000 An 08