Ac compressor doesn’t engage unless jumped

Hello, Dave here, contributing to RepairPal and providing expert advice since 2010. I suppose it's a good sign that you verified proper refrigerant in the system, no leaks via a vacuum test, and have jumped the compressor to ensure it turns on. I would suspect a cycle switch issue, a coil/field issue or a climate control system issue. Circuit testing of the electrical system of the air conditioning is needed. Have you verified if the coil is getting power to engage the compressor? Check the cycle switch too, you can choose that circuit also and see if the compressor engages. You will want to make sure the climate control system works as well - the on and off controls inside the vehicle. When you checked the refrigerant, was it low? How much was recovered? You can seek guidance at a shop near you -- https://repairpal.com/auto-repair-near-me Click the link or call us at 877-913-1554. We'll gladly find you a certified RepairPal shop in your area.