Nissan Maxima Wheels For Sale
So, you're in the market for new wheels for your Nissan Maxima? Excellent choice! Upgrading your wheels is one of the quickest and most impactful ways to change the look and performance of your vehicle. However, before you jump headfirst into the world of aftermarket rims, let's break down some key considerations to ensure you get the right fit and avoid any headaches down the road. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about safety, handling, and maintaining the integrity of your Maxima.
Understanding Wheel Specifications
Before we dive into where to find those perfect rims, let's make sure we're all on the same page regarding wheel specs. Ignoring these details can lead to fitment issues, rubbing, and even damage to your suspension or braking system. Here are the critical measurements to understand:
Wheel Diameter
This is the overall diameter of the wheel, measured in inches. It dictates the size of the tire you'll need. Maximas have come with various wheel diameters over the years, typically ranging from 16" to 19" from the factory. You can usually go slightly larger or smaller, but be mindful of maintaining the overall rolling diameter (more on that later) to avoid speedometer inaccuracies and ABS issues.
Wheel Width
Measured in inches, the wheel width determines the width of the tire it can safely accommodate. A tire that's too wide or too narrow for the rim can compromise handling and tire wear. Consult tire size charts to determine the optimal wheel width for your chosen tire size.
Bolt Pattern (PCD)
The bolt pattern, also sometimes referred to as PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter), is crucial. It describes the number of bolts and the diameter of the circle they form. It's expressed as [Number of Bolts]x[Diameter in mm]. For most Nissan Maximas, the bolt pattern is 5x114.3mm (also sometimes expressed as 5x4.5 inches). Incorrect bolt patterns will simply not fit – don't even try to force it!
Offset (ET)
Offset, measured in millimeters (mm), 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, pulling the wheel inward. A negative offset pushes the wheel outward. The correct offset is critical for ensuring the wheel clears the brake calipers, suspension components, and fender wells. Deviating too far from the factory offset can affect steering geometry and potentially cause premature wear on bearings and other suspension parts.
Important Note: Check your specific Maxima's year and trim level, as offset requirements can vary slightly.
Center Bore
The center bore is the diameter of the hole in the center of the wheel. It's designed to fit snugly over the hub of your car. A hub-centric wheel (correct center bore) provides the best support and minimizes vibration. If the center bore of the wheel is larger than your car's hub, you'll need hub-centric rings to fill the gap. These rings are inexpensive and readily available, but neglecting them can lead to vibrations and uneven wear.
Tire Considerations: Maintaining Rolling Diameter
As mentioned earlier, maintaining the overall rolling diameter of your tires is vital. When you change wheel size, you need to adjust the tire's sidewall height to compensate. A larger diameter wheel generally requires a tire with a lower aspect ratio (the ratio of sidewall height to tire width). There are numerous online tire size calculators that can help you find the correct tire size to match your new wheels and maintain a similar rolling diameter to your original setup. Input your original tire size and the new wheel diameter, and it will suggest appropriate tire sizes. Ignoring this can impact your speedometer reading, ABS, and even transmission shift points.
Consider the load rating of the tires. Your Maxima is not a light vehicle, so make sure your new tires have a load rating equal to or greater than the original tires.
Where to Find Nissan Maxima Wheels For Sale
Now that you understand the technical aspects, let's look at where you can find wheels for sale:
Online Retailers
Websites like Tire Rack, Discount Tire, and Amazon have extensive selections of wheels and tires. They often have "vehicle configurators" that allow you to input your Maxima's year and model to see wheels that are guaranteed to fit. Read reviews carefully and pay attention to shipping costs and return policies.
Local Tire and Wheel Shops
Visiting a local shop allows you to see the wheels in person and get expert advice. The staff can help you choose the right size, offset, and tire combination for your Maxima. They can also handle the installation, balancing, and alignment.
Online Marketplaces (eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace)
You can often find good deals on used wheels on online marketplaces. However, exercise extreme caution when buying used wheels. Thoroughly inspect the wheels for damage, such as cracks, bends, or curb rash. Ask the seller detailed questions about the wheel's history and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Carefully check all specifications before committing to a purchase.
Nissan Dealerships
Your local Nissan dealership might offer aftermarket wheels or original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wheels. While OEM wheels can be more expensive, they are guaranteed to fit perfectly and maintain the factory look of your Maxima.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wheels
Material
Wheels are typically made from aluminum alloy or steel. Aluminum alloy wheels are lighter, more stylish, and offer better heat dissipation. Steel wheels are more durable and typically less expensive.
Finish
Wheel finishes include painted, polished, chrome, and machined. Choose a finish that complements your Maxima's paint color and overall style. Consider the ease of maintenance as well. Chrome wheels, for instance, require more upkeep to prevent corrosion.
Style
Ultimately, the style of the wheels is a matter of personal preference. Consider the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve. Do you want a sporty look, a luxurious look, or something in between? Look at images of Maximas with different wheel styles to get inspiration.
Budget
Wheel prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per wheel. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it. Remember to factor in the cost of tires, installation, balancing, and any necessary accessories (like hub-centric rings or lug nuts).
Installation and Maintenance
If you're comfortable changing a tire, you can likely install your new wheels yourself. However, it's crucial to use a torque wrench and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications. Incorrectly tightened lug nuts can lead to wheel damage or even wheel failure.
After installing new wheels, it's always a good idea to have your alignment checked. This will ensure that your tires wear evenly and your car handles properly.
Regularly clean your wheels with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. Periodically inspect your wheels for damage and address any issues promptly.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Buying wheels with the wrong bolt pattern. Double-check the bolt pattern before making a purchase.
- Ignoring offset. Incorrect offset can cause rubbing, clearance issues, and suspension problems.
- Using the wrong lug nuts. Aftermarket wheels may require different lug nuts than your OEM wheels.
- Over-tightening lug nuts. Over-tightening can damage the wheel studs or warp the rotors.
- Neglecting hub-centric rings (if needed). Hub-centric rings are essential for proper wheel fitment and vibration prevention.
- Failing to maintain the rolling diameter. This can affect speedometer accuracy and ABS performance.
- Buying used wheels without inspection. Thoroughly inspect used wheels for damage before making a purchase.
By carefully considering these factors and taking the time to do your research, you can find the perfect set of wheels to enhance the look and performance of your Nissan Maxima. Happy motoring!