I just bought a 2000 SE. Came with 17" tires. I have an almost new set of good 15" snows from my 89 Maxima (just traded in). I would like to get a set of alloy 15" rims for these tires and maybe even get a set of all weather tires for them. Three reasons:

1. I'd like to get a smoother ride than the low profile 17" tires give me.
2. Much lower cost for tires.

3. I can use the snow tires I already own.

Questions:

1. Will the 15" wheel fit on the SE. Any problems with rotor/caliper size?

2. Is my assumption correct that I will trade of some cornering ability for a softer ride?

3. Anything else I should consider. I will keep the 17" wheels for eventual resale of the car.

Thanks for any replies.
Ed

 

I know on the 2k2-2k3's, the rotors are too big for 15"..the smallest that will clear is 16"...

 

1. 15s may very well be too small for the 2000 Max as it came with 215/55-16s stock OEM.

2. Assuming 16s, you may not have to lose too much cornering ability in relation to a softer ride if you have the right tires. There are so many variations in tire width, aspect ratio, etc. There may be a tire out there that is right for you. Search www.tirerack.com for tires in the size you are looking for.

 

some 2000 and 2001 GXE's came with 15" steel wheels with 205-65-15 tires on them. Mine did. They fit fine.

 

I only wonder if the brake rotors are the same diameter on the GXE as on the SE. Looks like you upgraded to the 17". How did the ride change when you made that switch to bigger rims and tires? Seems like the 15" should give a more cushioned ride. Is that true?
Ed

 

I've been through the Tantrums in my sig with summer tires and now I'm on the SE 17's with all season Michelins now. The ride did get a lot rougher when I switched, because there is a lot less rubber to act as a cushion. I'm not sure, and don't quote me on this, but I think the brake rotors are the same on all Maximas for 2000-01 because I saw a 2001 on 15" snow rims and tires once.

 

you wont get a smooth stable ride on the highway and high speeds. its not really safe with small rims. 16's should be a nice size, i guess the 17"s are for performence and looks and not the comfortable ride

 

I had the 15"...the ride was plenty smooth and stable, and if anything it was much more smooth because I couldn't feel the bumps. They just looked damn fugly though.

 

Eww...keep the 17's...

 

From Tirerack.com:

Kumho
ECSTA KH11
Blackwall
Size:225/50-17
Estimated Availability:
In Stock
$98

The reviews seem positive....