The air conditioning system in the Nissan Maxima consists of several components, including the compressor. The compressor is the component that commonly malfunctions. The condenser is the small radiator behind the grille -- if the system gets clogged and cannot be flushed or if the condenser springs a leak, it needs to be replaced, but that is rare. You must replace the drier or accumulator (depending on the year Maxima) whenever you replace the compressor.
Drive the vehicle to a shop with EPA-approved recycling equipment. Ask the shop to discharge the Freon. Let them know you will be refilling it and to make a notation of how much Freon was removed from the system -- some shops may charge you only to evacuate and refill the system, if the system has a full charge.
Remove the negative battery cable, using the appropriate wrench. Set the cable aside, ensuring that it does not touch metal. Slide a socket onto the bolt in the center of the tensioner pulley. Rotate the pulley toward the center of the engine to loosen tension on the belt, then lift the belt off the pulleys.
Remove the manifold and lines from the rear of the compressor, using the appropriate socket. Remove the four retaining bolts that hold the compressor to the engine. Remove the compressor from the engine.
Fill the new compressor with oil according to the instructions that come with the compressor. Stand the compressor on its clutch for 20 minutes to allow the oil to soak the front seal.
Install the compressor and tighten the retaining bolts to 40 foot-pounds of torque. Reinstall the manifold and lines and tighten the bolts firmly. Do not over-tighten the bolts.
Reinstall the accessory drive belt. Reattach the negative battery cable. Bring the Maxima to the shop and have them refill the system with Freon.
