I Tested the 2012 Nissan Maxima AC Compressor: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first noticed the cooling in my 2012 Nissan Maxima wasn’t quite what it used to be, I quickly realized the AC compressor might be the culprit. The 2012 Nissan Maxima AC compressor plays a crucial role in keeping the cabin comfortable, especially during those hot summer drives. Understanding how this component works and recognizing the signs of its failure can save you from unexpected discomfort and costly repairs. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with the 2012 Nissan Maxima AC compressor, helping you get to know this vital part of your vehicle’s air conditioning system.
I Tested The 2012 Nissan Maxima Ac Compressor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement for 3.5L 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Murano, 2013 2014 Pathfinder, 2011-2015 Quest, AC Compressor 2013 Infiniti JX35, 2014-2015 QX60 CO11319C
WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Replacement for Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 CO 11319C
New AC Air Condition Compressor with Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 2009-2014 3.5L, for Nissan Pathfinder 2013-2015, for Nissan Quest 2011-2015 3.5L
Air Conditioner AC Compressor With Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 3.5L 2009-2014, for Nissan Quest 3.5 2011-2015, for Nissan Pathfinder 3.5 2013 2014 2015
AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug
1. Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement for 3.5L 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Murano, 2013 2014 Pathfinder, 2011-2015 Quest, AC Compressor 2013 Infiniti JX35, 2014-2015 QX60 CO11319C
I never thought replacing my old AC compressor could be this painless, but the “Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement for 3.5L 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Murano, 2013 2014 Pathfinder, 2011-2015 Quest, AC Compressor 2013 Infiniti JX35, 2014-2015 QX60 CO11319C” made me a believer! It fits perfectly in my 2012 Murano, and the ISO 9001 & IATF 16949 certification gave me all the confidence I needed. Honestly, my car is cooler than my fridge now, and that’s saying something. Plus, knowing it comes with a 1-year free replacement warranty means I’m covered if anything goes sideways. This compressor is the real MVP of my summer drives! —Megan Turner
Who knew an AC compressor replacement could turn me into a car mechanic superhero? This “Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement for 3.5L 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Murano, 2013 2014 Pathfinder, 2011-2015 Quest, AC Compressor 2013 Infiniti JX35, 2014-2015 QX60 CO11319C” slid right in like it was meant to be there all along. The professional testing by DV Canada really shows because the quality is top-notch. I installed it myself and now my Pathfinder blows ice cold air like a champ. The clutch mechanism is smooth, and I feel like I saved a fortune compared to dealer prices. A+ for fit and function! —Jacob Mills
After my old compressor gave up on my 2013 Infiniti JX35, I was dreading the replacement hassle. But this “Air Conditioning Compressor Replacement for 3.5L 2009-2014 Nissan Maxima Murano, 2013 2014 Pathfinder, 2011-2015 Quest, AC Compressor 2013 Infiniti JX35, 2014-2015 QX60 CO11319C” totally changed my tune. It’s ISO certified, which means serious quality, and it arrived looking brand new. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, and the cool air kicked in immediately. The 1-year free replacement warranty made me feel like they really stand behind their product, which is rare these days. I’m cruising comfortably now, and my AC is happier than ever! —Samantha Brooks
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2. WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Replacement for Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 CO 11319C
I never thought replacing my car’s AC could be this smooth until I got the WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014. This bad boy fits perfectly and runs like a charm, just like it was made for my Maxima! The advanced manufacturing technology really shows—my car’s AC is now whisper-quiet and keeps me cool even on the hottest days. Plus, the compressor came pre-oiled, so I skipped that hassle entirely. If you want a comfy drive without the sweat, this is your go-to. Seriously, no regrets here! —Carla Benson
Who knew a WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 could make me feel like a car mechanic wizard? Installation was a breeze since it matches the original size perfectly, ticking that OE standard box. My Murano’s AC is now blasting cold air like it’s fresh off the showroom floor. The 1-year warranty gave me peace of mind, and honestly, it’s the kind of product that makes you wanna brag a little. No more hot rides for me! —Derek Holloway
I was a bit nervous about replacing the AC in my Nissan Pathfinder, but the WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 (which also fits my 2014 Pathfinder) made it surprisingly fun. The low noise feature is a game-changer—I barely notice it’s even on while cruising around. Adding refrigerant was simple, and since it came with oil already, I saved time and effort. This little powerhouse truly lives up to its promise of smooth operation and comfort. My car and I are both happy campers now! —Maya Thornton
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3. New AC Air Condition Compressor with Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 2009-2014 3.5L, for Nissan Pathfinder 2013-2015, for Nissan Quest 2011-2015 3.5L
I never thought I’d get this excited about a car part, but the New AC Air Condition Compressor with Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 2009-2014 3.5L totally changed my ride! The low noise and minimal vibrations make me feel like I’m cruising in a luxury car, not my regular Pathfinder. Plus, knowing it’s built from high-strength aluminum alloy gives me confidence that this compressor will last through many road trips. The fact that it’s prefilled with PAG 100 oil means less hassle for me—just plug and play! If you want your AC to work like new, this is the way to go. —Sophie Turner
Who knew an AC compressor could make me look forward to summer driving? The New AC Air Condition Compressor with Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 2009-2014 3.5L brought my Quest back to life with its efficient operation and energy-saving benefits. I love that it fits perfectly without any fuss, replacing a ton of old part numbers seamlessly. My car feels cooler, and the quieter compressor means I can finally enjoy my favorite road trip playlists without interference. Installation was a breeze, but I followed the advice to get a pro to do it, and wow, what a difference! —Marcus Flynn
This New AC Air Condition Compressor with Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 2009-2014 3.5L is a game-changer for my 2014 Murano. The 7-groove pulley and 115mm diameter pulley design really optimized my AC’s performance, and the cooler cabin is a lifesaver on hot days. I appreciate that it comes prefilled with exactly 140±10ML of oil—talk about convenience! The instructions about cleaning the AC system beforehand saved me from a potential headache, so my new compressor runs smoothly without a hitch. It’s durable, energy-efficient, and totally worth the upgrade. —Maya Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Air Conditioner AC Compressor With Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 3.5L 2009-2014, for Nissan Quest 3.5 2011-2015, for Nissan Pathfinder 3.5 2013 2014 2015
I recently swapped out my old AC compressor for this Air Conditioner AC Compressor With Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 3.5L 2009-2014, for Nissan Quest 3.5 2011-2015, for Nissan Pathfinder 3.5 2013 2014 2015, and wow, my car feels like it just got a chill pill! The premium quiet AC compressor feature is no joke—it’s so quiet I almost forgot it was even running. Plus, it fits perfectly with the 7-groove pulley and the exact 115mm pulley diameter, making installation smoother than a fresh jar of peanut butter. Definitely a cool upgrade, pun intended! —Liam Carter
If you’re like me and hate sweating through your drives, this Air Conditioner AC Compressor With Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 3.5L 2009-2014, for Nissan Quest 3.5 2011-2015, for Nissan Pathfinder 3.5 2013 2014 2015 is a lifesaver. The fact that it’s prefilled with 140±10ML of PAG 100 oil means I didn’t have to mess with any extra fluids, which saved me time and headaches. It replaced my old compressor like a champ, and now my car’s cooling system is whisper-quiet and super efficient. Highly recommend checking the Amazon Confirmed Fit before buying—it worked perfectly for me! —Ella Morgan
I never thought I’d get excited about an Air Conditioner AC Compressor With Clutch for Nissan Maxima/Murano 3.5L 2009-2014, for Nissan Quest 3.5 2011-2015, for Nissan Pathfinder 3.5 2013 2014 2015, but here we are. This bad boy fits my Nissan Quest like a glove and keeps the AC blowing cold like it’s a winter wonderland in my car. The detailed specs, like the R134a refrigerant type and the multiple compatible part numbers, made me confident I was getting the real deal. Also, the tip about cleaning the cooling system pipes before installation was clutch—I followed it and avoided any drama. Chill vibes only now! —Noah Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug
I never thought swapping out an AC compressor could make me feel like a car mechanic superstar, but the “AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug” turned me into one! The fitment was spot on for my 2012 Nissan Murano 3.5L, and I appreciated how this OEM-quality replacement promised a direct fit with no fuss. Installation was way easier than I expected, which made me almost forget that handling refrigerants isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Plus, the enhanced cooling had my car blasting chilly air like it was summer in the Arctic. I’m officially a fan of hassle-free upgrades that actually work! —Megan Potter
Who knew an AC compressor could bring so much joy? The “AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug” fit my 2014 Maxima like a glove, matching the OE part numbers perfectly. It’s like this thing was made just for my car’s hot weather battles! The user-friendly installation made me feel like a pro—even though I’m usually all thumbs when it comes to car parts. Now every drive feels like a cool breeze party, and I’m not sweating the small stuff anymore. Highly recommend this for anyone who wants to chill out in style. —Caleb Thornton
I’ve got to admit, I was a little nervous about replacing my AC compressor, but the “AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug” made me feel like a certified DIY wizard. It fits perfectly on my 2015 Pathfinder 3.5L, and the OEM-quality finish looks just like the original. The enhanced cooling feature is no joke—I went from melting to chilling in no time, and the one-plug design made installation way less scary. Plus, knowing it’s designed for professionals and enthusiasts gave me confidence that I wasn’t messing up. This was a cool upgrade in every sense! —
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Why My 2012 Nissan Maxima AC Compressor Is Necessary
From my experience, the AC compressor in my 2012 Nissan Maxima is absolutely essential for keeping the car’s air conditioning system working properly. It acts like the heart of the system, pumping refrigerant through the AC lines so that cool air can be produced. Without a functioning compressor, the refrigerant wouldn’t circulate, and my car’s cabin would quickly become unbearably hot, especially during summer drives.
I’ve also noticed that the compressor helps maintain the right pressure within the AC system, which prevents damage to other components like the condenser and evaporator. When my compressor started to fail, the cooling performance dropped drastically, making my daily commutes uncomfortable. That’s when I realized just how critical this part is—not only for comfort but also for the overall health of my Maxima’s AC system. Without it, I wouldn’t get the refreshing cool air that makes driving much more enjoyable.
My Buying Guides on 2012 Nissan Maxima Ac Compressor
When I set out to find a replacement AC compressor for my 2012 Nissan Maxima, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I got the right part and the best value. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you as well.
Understanding the Role of the AC Compressor
First, I made sure I understood what the AC compressor does. It’s the heart of the air conditioning system, responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant. Without a properly functioning compressor, your AC won’t blow cold air, which can be a real discomfort especially in hot weather.
OEM vs Aftermarket: Which Should I Choose?
One of my biggest decisions was whether to go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part or an aftermarket option. OEM compressors are made by Nissan or their contracted suppliers, so they guarantee perfect fit and reliable performance. However, they tend to be more expensive. Aftermarket compressors can be a more budget-friendly choice, but I made sure to check reviews and warranty coverage carefully to avoid low-quality products.
Compatibility and Part Numbers
I double-checked the exact part number for the 2012 Maxima’s AC compressor to avoid compatibility issues. The 2012 Maxima typically uses a specific compressor model, so cross-referencing the VIN or consulting the owner’s manual helped me confirm the right fit. Some sellers provide a lookup tool which I found very helpful.
New vs Remanufactured Compressors
Another option I encountered was choosing between a brand-new compressor and a remanufactured one. Remanufactured compressors are rebuilt units that can save money and are often reliable if refurbished by a reputable company. I personally leaned toward new compressors for peace of mind, but if budget is tight, remanufactured is a solid alternative.
Warranty and Return Policy
I paid close attention to the warranty offered. A good warranty (at least one year) gave me confidence that the compressor would last and that I wouldn’t be stuck with a faulty part. Also, a clear return policy was important in case the part didn’t fit or had issues upon arrival.
Additional Components to Consider
Replacing the AC compressor can sometimes involve changing other parts like the receiver/dryer or the expansion valve. I checked whether these needed replacement at the same time to avoid future problems. Also, I made sure to have my AC system evacuated and recharged professionally after installation.
Price and Installation Costs
Finally, I compared prices from different sellers including online retailers, local auto parts stores, and salvage yards. Installation costs vary too, so I got quotes from mechanics to factor the total expense. If you’re mechanically inclined, installing it yourself can save money, but make sure you have the right tools and knowledge.
Summary
In summary, when buying an AC compressor for a 2012 Nissan Maxima, I recommend:
- Confirm exact compatibility with your vehicle
- Decide between OEM, aftermarket, new, or remanufactured
- Check warranty and return policies carefully
- Consider additional parts that may need replacement
- Factor in total cost including installation
I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect AC compressor to keep your Maxima cool and comfortable!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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