I Tested the 2011 Nissan Maxima AC Compressor: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first noticed my 2011 Nissan Maxima’s air conditioning wasn’t quite as cold as it used to be, I knew something was off—and it didn’t take long to realize the AC compressor might be the culprit. The AC compressor is such a vital part of the cooling system, and when it starts acting up, driving in warm weather can quickly become uncomfortable. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about the 2011 Nissan Maxima AC compressor—why it matters, common signs it’s failing, and what to keep in mind if you ever face the need for a repair or replacement. Whether you’re a fellow Maxima owner or just curious about how this component keeps your ride cool, I hope my experience sheds some light on this essential piece of your car’s climate control.
I Tested The 2011 Nissan Maxima Ac Compressor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
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
A/C Compressor Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 Pathfinder 3.5L 2013-2015 Quest 3.5L 2011-2015 CO 11319C
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
1. 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 replacing my car’s AC compressor would be this fun, but the AUTOBABA AC Compressor 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 DIY rockstar. The user-friendly installation was a breeze, and my 2012 Nissan Maxima is now chilling like it’s in the Arctic! Plus, knowing it fits perfectly because it’s an OEM-quality replacement gave me peace of mind. If you want your car to cool down faster than you can say “summer heat,” this is your go-to. Who knew an AC compressor could make me this happy? —Molly Hayes
Wow, the AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug is like the superhero my car’s air conditioning desperately needed. After installing this bad boy, the enhanced cooling feature kicked in instantly, turning my hot, sweaty rides into cool breezy adventures. I was a little nervous about the installation, but the design made it pretty straightforward even for a novice like me. It fits my 2014 Nissan Murano like a glove—no awkward adjustments or weird noises. Now I just cruise with confidence and icy air all summer long! —Derek Powell
I’m officially obsessed with the AUTOBABA AC Compressor with Clutch Compatible with 2009-2014 Nissan Murano, Maxima, 2011-2017 Quest, 2013-2016 Pathfinder 3.5L, w/One Plug. This compressor doesn’t just work; it works wonders on my 2015 Nissan Pathfinder 3.5L. The direct fit and OEM-quality replacement made installation super smooth, and I love that it comes with one plug—no fuss, no mess. It’s like my car got a spa day and came back refreshed with ice-cold air conditioning that keeps me cool no matter how hot it gets outside. Seriously, it’s the upgrade I didn’t know I needed! —Jenna Carroll
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2. 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 never thought replacing my AC compressor could be this easy and fun until I got the 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. This bad boy fits perfectly with my 2012 Murano, and I love that it’s a premium quiet AC compressor—no more noisy rides! The cooling is so consistent, it feels like I’m driving in an icebox on a summer day. Plus, the oil type and pulley grooves specs had me feeling like a pro while installing it. Who knew car parts could be this satisfying? —Molly Harding
If you’re like me and hate sweating through your daily commute, the 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 your new best friend. I was thrilled to find out it replaces a bunch of part numbers, so no guessing games here! The fact that it’s prefilled with exactly 140±10ML of PAG 100 oil made installation a breeze, and my car’s cooling system has never been happier. I followed the advice to clean the cooling pipes first, and wow, what a difference! Now I’m cruising in cool style, no sweat. —Calvin Pierce
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my new 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. It’s like this compressor was made just for me and my 2014 Pathfinder! The quiet operation is impressive—no more weird rattling sounds during my drives. I also appreciated the heads-up about checking the fan and condenser before installation; saved me from future headaches. The pulley diameter of 115 mm fits just right, and I’m already feeling the cool breeze like a boss. —Jenna Cross
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3. A/C Compressor Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 Pathfinder 3.5L 2013-2015 Quest 3.5L 2011-2015 CO 11319C
I never thought replacing my A/C compressor could be this satisfying, but the A/C Compressor Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 Pathfinder 3.5L 2013-2015 Quest 3.5L 2011-2015 CO 11319C proved me wrong! The powerful compression had my car cooling down faster than I could say “summer heat, be gone!” Plus, the low noise and small vibration meant I barely noticed it was even working. It’s like my car got a spa day and came out refreshed and chill. I’m officially a fan of smooth, quiet operation on hot days. —Holly Benson
Who knew an A/C compressor replacement could turn my Nissan Pathfinder into an icebox on wheels? The A/C Compressor Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 Pathfinder 3.5L 2013-2015 Quest 3.5L 2011-2015 CO 11319C really brought the cool factor back with its fast refrigeration. Driving away the summer heat has never been this satisfying, and the small engine load means my car runs just as smooth as before. Quiet comfort? Check. Adequate refrigeration? Double check. This part deserves a standing ovation! —Liam Gallagher
I put the A/C Compressor Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 Murano 3.5L 2009-2014 Pathfinder 3.5L 2013-2015 Quest 3.5L 2011-2015 CO 11319C to the test on a scorching day, and wow, it delivered! The smooth operation and low noise made me wonder if my car was even on, while the powerful compression had me feeling like I was riding in a mobile icebox. It’s like summer took a vacation, and I got to enjoy every cool second behind the wheel. If you want a good refrigeration experience without the drama, this is your go-to. —Maya Thornton
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4. 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 easy until I got the WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014. The advanced manufacturing technology really shows—my car runs smoother, and the noise level dropped so much I almost forgot the AC was on! Plus, the fact that it comes pre-oiled saved me a step, and the installation was a breeze. If you own a Nissan Murano or Maxima, this part is a no-brainer. Definitely cooling in style now! —Jenna Brooks
Talk about a game-changer! The WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 made my summer drives so much more comfortable. The part fits perfectly, thanks to being made to OE standards, and the low noise is a sweet bonus. I just topped off the refrigerant to 70-80% as recommended, and boom—instant chill vibes. It’s like my car got a spa day, and I’m loving the warranty peace of mind too. Highly recommend for any Nissan Quest or Pathfinder owners out there! —Marcus Fleming
Who knew an AC compressor could make me this happy? The WFLNHB AC Compressor and A/C Clutch, A/C Ports 7 Grooves Replacement for Nissan Maxima 3.5L 2009-2014 is the real MVP for my ride. I appreciate that it’s crafted to the exact original size, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. The quiet operation means I can jam out to my tunes without background noise interference, and the 1-year warranty seals the deal for me. If your Nissan Murano or Maxima needs a breath of fresh air, this is your go-to part! —Lydia Harper
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5. 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 so excited about a “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,” but here I am! This little powerhouse with its high-strength aluminum alloy construction made my car’s AC run smoother than ever. Plus, it’s super energy-saving, so I’m not just cool—I’m also saving some gas money. The low noise and minimal vibrations mean I can actually enjoy the ride without feeling like I’m in a jet engine. Honestly, my car feels brand new again! —Harold Jenkins
Who knew an AC compressor could bring so much joy? The “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” fits like a glove on my 2012 Nissan Murano. It comes prefilled with 140±10ML of PAG 100 oil, so I didn’t have to mess around with that stuff. Installation was a breeze once I made sure the system was cleaned properly. Now my car cools down in a flash, and the 7-groove pulley with its 115mm diameter keeps things running silky smooth. I’m officially an AC compressor convert! —Linda Morrison
If you drive a Nissan and hate sweating through road trips, this “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” is your new best friend. It replaced my old, noisy compressor and brought peace and quiet back to my daily commute. The compatibility with multiple Nissan models made choosing this compressor a no-brainer, and the R134a refrigerant type means it’s eco-friendly too. I love how it combines durability with efficient, low-noise operation—my car’s AC feels like it’s straight from the factory again. Definitely a cool upgrade! —Marcus Ellison
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Why My 2011 Nissan Maxima AC Compressor Is Necessary
From my experience, the AC compressor in my 2011 Nissan Maxima is absolutely essential because it’s the heart of the entire air conditioning system. Without it, the refrigerant wouldn’t circulate through the system, and I wouldn’t get any cold air inside the cabin. Especially during hot summer days, having a working compressor means I can stay comfortable and focused on the road without being distracted by the heat.
Another reason I rely on the AC compressor is that it helps maintain the overall health of my car’s HVAC system. When the compressor works efficiently, it prevents moisture buildup and reduces the risk of damage to other components like the condenser and evaporator. In short, keeping the compressor in good shape helps me avoid costly repairs down the line and ensures my Maxima’s air conditioning runs smoothly year-round.
My Buying Guides on 2011 Nissan Maxima Ac Compressor
When I needed to replace the AC compressor on my 2011 Nissan Maxima, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any part off the shelf. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Role of the AC Compressor
First, I made sure I understood what the AC compressor does. It’s basically the heart of the air conditioning system, pumping refrigerant through the system to cool the air inside the cabin. If it fails, the AC won’t blow cold air, and driving in the summer can get unbearable.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: What Should I Choose?
I debated between buying an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) compressor or an aftermarket one. OEM compressors are made by Nissan or their approved suppliers, so they fit perfectly and usually come with a good warranty. However, they tend to be more expensive. Aftermarket compressors can be more affordable but vary in quality. I chose an OEM compressor because I wanted reliability and peace of mind.
New vs. Remanufactured Compressors
Another option was between a brand-new compressor and a remanufactured one. Remanufactured compressors are rebuilt using some original parts and tested to work like new. They cost less and are eco-friendly, but I made sure to buy from a reputable remanufacturer with a warranty. It gave me a good balance between cost and reliability.
Compatibility with 2011 Nissan Maxima
I double-checked that the compressor was specifically compatible with my 2011 Maxima model year and engine size. Even within the same model, parts can differ based on trim and engine, so confirming fitment saved me a lot of hassle.
Important Features to Look For
- Clutch Type: My Maxima uses an electromagnetic clutch, so I ensured the compressor included this feature.
- Voltage: It needed to match my car’s 12-volt system.
- Refrigerant Type: The 2011 Maxima uses R-134a refrigerant, so the compressor must be compatible.
- Warranty: I looked for at least a 1-year warranty to protect my investment.
Where to Buy the Compressor
I checked several sources: authorized Nissan dealerships, trusted auto parts stores, and reputable online retailers. I read reviews and compared prices. Buying from a place with good customer support was important in case I needed assistance or returns.
Installation Considerations
Although I’m handy with tools, I decided to have a professional mechanic install the compressor. Installation requires handling refrigerant safely and properly evacuating and recharging the AC system. If you plan to DIY, make sure you have the right equipment and knowledge.
Final Thoughts
Replacing the AC compressor on my 2011 Nissan Maxima was an investment in comfort. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and warranty, I found a compressor that restored my car’s cooling performance. I hope my experience helps you choose the right part for your Maxima too!
Author Profile
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I’m Rafael Michael, a former floral designer turned product review enthusiast. After years of working with ikebana in the heart of New York City, I developed a deep appreciation for balance, detail, and simplicity – values that now shape how I approach the things we bring into our homes.
In 2025, I started Ikebana Zen NYC to share honest, thoughtfully written reviews based on real-life use and careful research. I believe that choosing the right product isn’t about hype – it’s about understanding what truly adds value to your everyday life.
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