^^^^ +1.

As far as the compressor running... That's why I wish Infiniti would use a variable speed compressor clutch, like my Pontiac has. Works much better to run the compressor at half speed or whatever, instead of constantly turning on/off the compressor.

But anyways, I leave the A/C on all the time, even if it's 40 degrees outside. I like it nice and dry.

I remember reading a bunch of studies that showed that rolling your windows down when it was 70 degrees outside actually used more gas than if you just left the A/C on...

But whatever... With that being said, I doubt you'll see much difference in real world gas usage... I remember getting into an argument with a coworker about that, so I ran without A/C for 2 days, and averaged the exact same economy wise, except I was noticeably more uncomfortable.

I don't know, maybe it only bothers me so much, becuase of my relatives when I was growing up. I hate how they turn the A/C on for like 5 minutes, and when it cools down, they turn it off until it gets unbearable again, then they flip it on again for 5 minutes. Would it kill them to keep it on to maintain a temperature? I don't go driving across town to save 2 cents a gallon, so I'm not going to cry if I use a tiny bit more gas by leaving the A/C on.

But all that aside... You should run the A/C once in a while, becuase that's how the A/C components get lubricated. I can't remember where, but I remember the owners manuals used to recommend running the A/C at least 10 minutes every week, even in winter.

 

Bah... I have the A/C on all the time when I drive, everytime I drive. I've put over 150,000 miles on all my cars (except for my G), and I've never had the A/C go out on me. Besides, running the A/C lubricates the compressor and such. Not using the system very often is probably what leads to A/C failure, as then you dry out the lines, compressor, etc, crack, etc, etc.

 

studies have shown poor gas mileage equates to windows down and more air resistance compared to windows up with AC on.

yes, most car manufactures would suggest running AC in colder temps
for at least 5 minutes per week to help lube components.

Best to leave AC on when trying to keep cool and leaving it on
until shutting off car. Compared to the yo-yo syndrome which
waste fuel and heats up clutches in compressor prematurely.

 

Take off your A/C compressor, lines & belt. Problem solved, 20 pounds saved, less HP wasted, F/R weight ratio improved.

 

I could save more weight by going to the gym more often

 

I leave my A/C off with heat, unless it is raining and the passengers or I brought moisture into the car.
Also I usually turn off the A/C about 5-10 minutes before arriving at my destination to allow time to dry out the A/C condenser. Otherwise, you might end up with foul smelling mold and slime growing on the A/C condenser.
There is nothing worst than sitting in a nice car that smell like a old sneaker when the A/C is turned on.

 

+1 on running the A/C system even in the winter to lubricate the seals, etc. I do this religiously so that parts don't dry out. I turn the A/C on in the winter when getting the car washed (which is once a week). By the way, the A/C system is also a dehumidifier (like someone else said)...it's not just for cooling. A/C = air "conditioner"....not air "cooler". But, I do keep it off in the winter when I'm not running it to lube the system.

 

horsepower wqsted due to parasitic drag - james.