The Nissan Murano is well-loved for its powerful V6 engine, excellent traction, and safety systems. However, Muranos commonly encounter air conditioning problems. The most common is a failed AC compressor.
Overall, you can expect to spend about $1,000 to have a professional replace the AC compressor on a Nissan Murano. The Murano’s AC compressor is slightly more expensive to repair than similar car brands.
Alternatively, you can purchase a compatible AC compressor online and replace it yourself for about $170.
To help you out with the costs, we put together this comprehensive article on the costs of replacing a Nissan Murano AC compressor. We will talk about costs for professional repairs and also talk about costs for DIY repairs.
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What is an AC Compressor?
Old cars did not have an AC system. Instead, the cabin could get very hot and you would need to roll the windows down to get some airflow. However, AC systems in cars made it much easier for people to drive long distances comfortably in the hot summer and cold winter.
The AC compressor works by compressing coolant fluid, turning it into a liquid. This cooled liquid sucks the heat out of the air, creating the cold air your AC system blows into the car.
Without a compressor, your AC system will not be able to cool your car. Once the liquid cools the air, it goes to the condenser, through a purifier, then back to the expansion valve before beginning the cycle again.
How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Nissan Murano AC Compressor?
On average, you can expect to pay approximately $1,000 to replace the AC compressor on a Nissan Murano. The typical price range is between $800 on the low end and $1,200 on the high end.
This cost is an average and your actual costs will differ depending on the age of your car and your mechanic’s location.
AC compressor replacement costs for the Murano are slightly above the national average for all types of cars at $900.
However, the Nissan Murano has lower than average maintenance costs over the lifetime of the car and is a reliable car that can easily last up to 200,000 miles if maintained properly.
So while the Murano’s AC compressor is slightly more expensive to repair than average, it will break down less often.
Nissan Murano vs Comparable Brands
Below is a table showing the average cost to replace a Nissan Murano AC compressor compared to similar models of car. These costs are averages and will depend on the age of your car and your mechanic’s location.
| Make/Model | Avg. AC Compressor Replacement Cost |
| Nissan Murano | $1,000 |
| Chevy Equinox | $700 |
| Dodge Durango | $120 |
| Ford Edge | $750 |
| GMC Acadia | $800 |
| Honda Pilot | $1,200 |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | $1,200 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | $600 |
| Infiniti QX50 | $1,100 |
| Kia Sorento | $800 |
| Toyota Highlander | $1,300 |
As you can see, replacing the AC compressor on a Nissan Murano is slightly more expensive than similar models. The closest comparable brand is the Infiniti QX50, which has higher average annual maintenance costs at about $1,000 per year.
AC Compressor Parts Cost
If you do not want to spend money on professional repairs, you can buy the AC compressor parts online and replace them yourself. You can expect to pay about $170 to buy a replacement AC compressor for a Nissan Murano online.
| Product | Price |
| RYC REmanufactured AC Compressor w/ Clutch | $120 |
| ECCPP AC Compressor CO for Nissan Murano & Maxima | $180 |
| New OEM Class AC Compressor AppolloTech ATS | $170 |
| SCITOO CO 11319C AC Compressor With Clutch | $160 |
| FKG AC Compressor w/ Clutch CO 11319C for Nissan Murano | $180 |
| BUYAUTOPARTS AC Compressor w/ AC Clutch | $200 |
| BUYAUTOPARTS Nissan Murano AC compressor & Repair Kit | $240 |
| Denso 471-5006 AC Compressor | $240 |
Signs of a Bad AC Compressor
Here are the most common signs of a bad AC compressor.
Hot Air From Vents
The most common sign of a bad AC compressor is if your AC vents only blow out hot air. If the compressor is broken, then it cannot compress the coolant and the coolant cannot lower the temperature in the air.
The result is that your AC system just ends up cycling hot air through the vents and blower.
Test your AC by fiddling with the power and temperature settings. If the air remains the same temperature no matter the settings, then the culprit is most likely your AC compressor.
Leaking Fluid
AC compressors contain a series of ball bearings that create a seal and keep liquid coolant pressurized. If the compressor breaks, the seal can fail and your car may start leaking AC fluid.
AC fluid will leak near the front end of your car and typically has a blue or brownish-red color. Leaking coolant fluid also has a faintly sweet smell like marshmallows.
If you do see leaking AC coolant, take your car in as quickly as possible. Leaking refrigerant can be a health hazard and running your AC without fluid can damage other AC components like your coils and expansion valve.
Loud Noises from AC
Like we said earlier, the AC compressor has a series of ball bearings that provide a seal and allow components to move across one another. If these ball bearings break or the seal’s integrity is breached, your AC may start making strange noises when you try to turn it on.
Common noises include scraping or grinding or loud wooshing. If you notice strange sounds coming from your AC, take it to a mechanic quickly. These sounds could indicate components are grinding against one another.
AC Clutch is Stuck
The AC compressor has a clutch that draws power from the car’s engine and tells the compressor to switch on and off. If the AC clutch fails, then your compressor may get stuck in the “on”: or “off” position.
If it gets stuck on, then it can cause early wear and tear through overuse. If it gets stuck in the “off” position, then your AC may not respond to controls at all.
Factors that Affect AC Compressor Costs
Compressor Type
There are 5 major types of AC compressors used in modern cars.
Scroll compressors
Scroll compressors are newer and feature a fixed coil and a rotating coil. The rotating coil forces coolant into the fixed coil, which compresses it. These compressors have fewer moving parts and are reliable.
Screw compressors
Screw compressors contain two threaded rotors that rotate against one another, compressing the fluid as it moves through the opening. These kinds of compressors are large and are more common in buildings than cars, though some larger car models use them.
Rotary compressor
Rotary compressors consist of a central shaft with rotating blades. The blades spin around, compressing liquid and moving it through the passages. Rotary compressors are smaller and do not produce much noise, so they are the model of choice on smaller compact cars.
Reciprocating compressor
Reciprocating compressors are the most common type and consist of an oscillating piston that pulls and compresses refrigerant fluid. Reciprocating compressors are popular because they are efficient and can contain up to 8 pistons in the array.
Screw compressors are the most expensive but are not that common. The Murano comes with a stock reciprocating compressor, but you can switch it out with a compatible version of another type.
Age of Your Car
As always, the age of your car will heavily affect replacement cost. If your car is old enough, you may also have to replace the AC clutch, evaporators, or thermal expansion valve. Also, the older your car is, the less expensive it will be to maintain, but it may be harder to find compatible parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor for a Nissan Murano?
On average, it costs about $1,000 to replace the AC compressor for a Nissan Murano. That figure is slightly more expensive than several other similar car models.
However, the Nissan Murano has lower annual maintenance costs than average and is also more reliable than average, so it still remains cost-effective to repair and maintain.
How often should I replace my AC compressor?
Generally speaking, you should not have to replace your AC compressor during your car’s lifetime. Most AC compressors will last up to 15 years assuming non-excessive use and regular maintenance.
Can I drive with a bad AC compressor?
Yes, you can drive with a bad AC compressor, but we would not recommend it. Driving on a broken compressor can put unnecessary strain on your AC clutch, motor blower, coils, and expansion valve.
Also, your AC won’t be able to generate cool air, so you’ll have a rough time driving in the hot or cold.
Can I replace an AC compressor on my own?
If you have some experience working with cars, you can absolutely replace your AC compressor on your own. You will need a wrench, screwdriver, and needle-nose pliers to make the replacement as easy as possible.
You can save a good deal of money if you DIY replace your air compressor rather than taking it to a professional.
What kind of AC compressor does the Nissan Murano use?
The Nissan Murano comes equipped with a stock reciprocating compressor. It is highly recommended you use the same type of compressor, but you can switch it out with another kind.
Final Words
The Nissan Murano is a reliable car but surfers from AC problems. If your AC compressor is broken, you might find it uncomfortable to drive in the hot and cold. As always, make sure that you get quotes from several mechanics so you can get the best possible price. You may be interested in our guide on Tensioner pulley
