I have an opportunity to buy a set of stock 2002 SE springs for low $$, but have two questions. First, will they fit a 2000 GXE ? Second, does anyone know just how much stiffer they are ? I don't want to go to lowered springs as I'm afraid it would effect the ride too much.

 

You should go with Maxspeeds then.

Don't go with that stock setup.

Be sure to get some Tokico's too.

 

There is quite a difference between what a GXE/GLE suspension feels like and what an SE suspension feels like... but it goes beyond the springs.

The SE springs should easily fit your GXE, however, you will still have a cushy ride unless you also change the struts, etc.

 

Is there even a difference between the two? I thought the difference in suspension b/w SE / G(X-L)E was stiffer struts and thicker sway bars??? But Springs, progressively stiffer? I think not.

 

we have talked about this already. Shocks and struts are the same.The difference is in polyerethane bushings and stiffer springs on SE.

I am wondering if you go to aftermarket setup by changing only shocks/struts and springs on GXE/GLE, your ride will still be softer because of those bushings?

 

FWIW, I test-drove a '96 base BASE model Maxima before I bought my '02 SE. I guess it was a GXE - it had HUBCAPS. Anyway, that car rode SO nice it was amazing. My SE does not ride nearly as well, but then again it doesn't really seem to me to handle any better than that old '96, either. Basically there was nothing WRONG with the way the '96 drove. I want to lower my SE just a little, but I'm really afraid of what it will do to the ride...

 

the springs will fit with no problem but why would you want to do this? SE springs are not stiffer than the GXEs'.