Infiniti JX A/C Not Working: Common Cooling System Issues

Hey there! I had a similar issue with my 2011 Infiniti QX (pretty close to your JX). I have some experience working on cars as a hobby mechanic. In my case, it turned out to be faulty valves in the A/C system. Got super lucky because it was still under extended warranty, so it cost me nothing to fix. The dealer's workshop diagnosed and replaced the defective valves. Could you share some more details about the symptoms? Like, does it make any unusual noises when you turn on the A/C? Also, have you checked if the compressor is engaging at all? This could help pinpoint if you're dealing with the same problem I had.

Thanks for sharing your experience! My JX is at 209532 KM and had its last service about 3 months ago. When I turn the A/C on, I can hear a clicking sound from the front, but nothing happens after that. The compressor doesn't seem to engage at all. I also notice that the air feels slightly humid when it comes through the vents. Do you think this could be similar to your valve issue? Really hoping it's not the compressor itself since that would be a pretty expensive fix.

Hey again! Thanks for those extra details about your JX. Yeah, those symptoms actually sound really similar to what I experienced with my QX before the valve replacement. That clicking sound followed by nothing happening? That's exactly what mine did! In my case, the valves were preventing proper refrigerant flow, which is why the compressor wouldn't engage properly. The humid air is also a telltale sign had that too. Mine started acting up around 198,000 KM, so we're in the same ballpark mileage-wise. Just to be on the safe side though, you might want to have them check your refrigerant levels first. Sometimes low refrigerant can cause similar symptoms, and that's a much cheaper fix. The dealership first thought that was my issue before they discovered the valve problem. I know you're worried about the compressor, but based on what you're describing, I really don't think that's your problem. The symptoms align more with the valve issue I had. Still, best to get it checked out soon driving without proper A/C in this weather isn't fun (learned that the hard way during my week of diagnosis!). Let me know what you find out. Fingers crossed it's just the valves like mine was!

Thanks so much for the detailed response! That's really reassuring to hear that your symptoms were so similar to mine. I'll definitely get the refrigerant levels checked first that would be the best-case scenario for sure. The clicking sound being the same as what you experienced gives me hope that it might just be the valves. I've scheduled an appointment with my mechanic for next week. You're right about not wanting to drive without A/C for too long it's been pretty uncomfortable these past few days! I'll update this thread once I find out what the actual problem is. Really appreciate your help and insights on this! Thanks again for taking the time to share your experience. You've definitely helped ease my mind about the potential repair costs!