i'm goin to be getting 17x8 soon and i noticed for most of the maxima owners that have 17's they have the recommended tire size of 235/45-17 but for the newer 2k-2k3 which come with 17's have 50-17 why is that? and why not go with 50-17 for 4th gens?

 

5th Gen rims are 17x7 and do not suggest 45 series tires. Go with the 45s

 

The reason 4th gen's run 235/45/17 is because it's the same overall diameter as the stock 215/55/16. They put 235/50/17 on the new max because it's oem and most people want a better ride, they are also heavier so they need the higher load rating. You sould be able to run 235/50/17 without a problem as long as you have the right offset wheel, and your car is not slammed. It will only be 10mm taller and 10mm wider than the 235/45/17. There is also a very limited selection of tires in 235/50/17, so you will have a lot more choices if you went with the 45's.

 

The 5th gens with 17x7 wheels come with 225/50/17 stock. You could put those on a 4th gen. Most people getting 17's on a 4th gen get at least 17x7.5, thus opting for 235/45/17. The recommended minimum tire width for 235/45/17 according to tire manufacturers is 7.5.