Nissan Maxima On 20 Inch Rims

The Nissan Maxima, often lauded as a "four-door sports car," boasts a blend of comfort and performance. A common upgrade among Maxima enthusiasts is swapping out the factory wheels for larger, more visually striking options, with 20-inch rims being a popular choice. But putting 20s on your Maxima isn't just about aesthetics; it impacts various aspects of the car's performance, handling, and ride quality. Let's dive into what you need to know before making the leap.

Understanding Wheel and Tire Sizing

Before we get into the specifics of 20-inch rims on a Maxima, let's clarify some basic wheel and tire terminology. Wheel size is measured in diameter (inches) and width (inches). Tire size is represented by a code like 245/35R20. The first number (245) is the tire's section width in millimeters. The second number (35) is the aspect ratio, representing the tire's sidewall height as a percentage of its width. The "R" indicates a radial tire construction, and the final number (20) is the wheel diameter in inches.

Think of it like this: Imagine a BMW 3 Series. The base model might come with 17-inch wheels, while an M3 might have 19-inch wheels. The overall diameter of the *tire and wheel combination* is designed to be roughly the same. Why? Because changing the overall diameter drastically affects the speedometer reading and the car's gearing. We'll get into this concept in detail shortly.

The Appeal of Larger Wheels

So why do people want bigger wheels? The reasons are usually threefold:

• Aesthetics: Larger wheels often fill the wheel wells better, giving the car a more aggressive and sporty stance. This is purely subjective, but a common motivation.
• Improved Handling (Potentially): Lower profile tires, necessitated by larger wheels, generally have stiffer sidewalls. This can lead to reduced body roll and sharper steering response, especially when paired with performance-oriented tires.
• Bigger Brake Clearance: If you plan on upgrading to larger performance brakes, larger wheels might be necessary to provide the required clearance for the calipers. Think of the massive Brembo brakes on a Porsche 911 – they often require larger wheels.

The Downsides of Upsizing

However, increasing wheel size isn't without its drawbacks:

• Ride Quality: Lower profile tires have less sidewall to absorb bumps. This translates to a harsher ride, especially on rough roads. Imagine the difference between riding in a Lexus LS (known for its plush ride) with its relatively taller tire sidewalls and a sports car like a Corvette with very low-profile tires.
• Increased Road Noise: Lower profile tires tend to generate more road noise due to their construction and reduced ability to dampen vibrations.
• Potentially Decreased Fuel Economy: Larger, heavier wheels and tires can increase rolling resistance, leading to a slight decrease in fuel economy. The effect isn't huge, but it's worth considering.
• Increased Risk of Wheel Damage: With less sidewall to protect the rim, larger wheels are more susceptible to damage from potholes and curbs.
• Cost: Larger wheels and tires are generally more expensive than smaller ones.
• Incorrect Speedometer Reading: This is critical. If the overall diameter of your new wheel and tire combination is significantly different from the original, your speedometer will be inaccurate. More on this below.

The Maxima and 20-Inch Rims: Key Considerations

Now, let's apply these principles specifically to the Nissan Maxima. If your Maxima originally came with, say, 18-inch wheels, moving up to 20-inch rims requires careful planning.

Tire Size and Rolling Diameter

The most important factor is maintaining the correct rolling diameter. This is the overall diameter of the tire and wheel combination. You need to choose a tire size that compensates for the larger wheel diameter so that the rolling diameter remains as close as possible to the original specification. A tire size like 245/35R20 is a common choice for Maximas with 20-inch wheels. The lower 35 aspect ratio is what keeps the overall diameter in check.

There are online tire size calculators that can help you determine the appropriate tire size. Simply enter your original tire size and your desired wheel size, and the calculator will suggest suitable tire sizes that maintain a similar rolling diameter. Aim for a difference of no more than +/- 3% from the original diameter. Anything beyond that, and you'll likely experience noticeable speedometer errors and potential issues with the car's stability control system.

For example, if the stock tire size on your Maxima is 235/45R18, a calculator might recommend a 245/35R20 tire to maintain a similar rolling diameter. Always double-check with a tire professional before making a purchase.

Wheel Offset

Wheel offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline. A positive offset means the mounting surface is closer to the outside of the wheel, while a negative offset means it's closer to the inside. The correct offset is crucial for proper wheel fitment. An incorrect offset can cause the wheel to rub against the suspension components or fender liners. It can also affect the car's handling characteristics by altering the scrub radius.

Sticking to the original offset, or something very close, is generally recommended. However, some aftermarket wheels may have a slightly different offset. In this case, research what others have successfully used on the same Maxima model. Aggressive offsets that push the wheels far out can look cool, but often require fender rolling or modifications to prevent rubbing.

Load Rating

Ensure that the tires you choose have a sufficient load rating for your Maxima. The load rating is the maximum weight each tire can safely carry. You can find the load rating on the tire's sidewall. Consult your owner's manual or a tire professional to determine the appropriate load rating for your vehicle. Under-rated tires can be dangerous and lead to premature tire failure.

Tire Pressure

Proper tire pressure is always important, but it's especially critical with lower-profile tires. Because there's less sidewall to absorb impacts, running the correct tire pressure helps prevent damage to the wheels and tires. The recommended tire pressure can usually be found on a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or in the owner's manual. Note that this is the *cold* tire pressure; pressure increases when the tire warms up.

Suspension Considerations

While simply bolting on 20-inch wheels *can* be done, consider the impact on your suspension. The increased unsprung weight (the weight of the wheels, tires, brakes, and suspension components) can affect the suspension's ability to react to bumps and road imperfections. Upgrading to stiffer springs and shocks can help compensate for this and improve handling, particularly if you're aiming for a sportier feel.

Potential for Rubbing

Even with the correct tire size and offset, there's still a chance that your tires might rub, particularly when turning or going over bumps. This is more likely if you've lowered your Maxima or are using wider tires. If rubbing occurs, you may need to roll your fenders (a process of bending the inner fender lip outward to create more clearance) or install wheel spacers (although spacers can negatively impact handling and should be used with caution).

Practical Takeaways

Ultimately, putting 20-inch rims on your Nissan Maxima is a personal decision. By understanding the potential impacts on performance, handling, and ride quality, you can make an informed choice and ensure that your upgrade enhances your driving experience rather than detracting from it. Remember, it’s not just about the looks; it’s about the overall functionality and safety of your vehicle.