My 200 Maxima has 17" wheels. The ride is too rough for my husband to ride in since he has a very bad back. Is there anything that can be done to give a smoother ride? We have been looking into changing the wheels to 16". Will this cause any problems? If we cannot get a smoother ride, I will have to trade my Maxima for a smoother riding car and I do not want to do that. Thank you!!!!!

 

im guessing u got an SE

 

hmm.... maybe you cood trade the stock struts in for a GLE struts, go lower size in rims, maybe even 15. that should make your ride much more comfortable

 

Yes, my maxima is an SE!!!

 

Simple question but did you check the tire pressure and make sure it isn't overinflated?

 

the easiest solution would be to switch to 16" or 15" tires. It won't look as good, but the ride will be softer. If it is still, rough, the springs and struts have to go....

 

or go with 13-14 inch wheels... very soft..

 

The suggestions on this post are pretty good so far. Yes, check your inflation pressure and adjust to manufacturers specs. The dealer always overinflates the tires.

15" or 16" tires will soften the ride a bit. A good touring tire will also deliver a smooth ride. While they are not the best in performance, they are probably better than the stock tires. Check out Bridgestone Turanza or Michelin MXV4's.

Springs and struts from a GXE or GLE may help, but that's an expensive option. Maybe thicker seat cushions might help.

The Maxima has a pretty rough ride to begin with. If you can't get it smooth enough, try a Camry. It has a GREAT ride.

 

The struts are the same between the SE and the GLE/GXE. There is only a rear linkage that is different.

I can tell you that running 205/65R15 (vs. 225/50R17) makes a HELL of a difference. Fortunately for me 1) I can handle a 'rough' ride and 2) there is only 5 months of winter!

One benefit of chaging the tire size is that you can get rid of that wheel well gap with a taller tire. You will have to consult miata.net's garage to see what the difference in speed shown on the spedometer will be.

Hope this helps.

 

I'd love to trade suspensions with you, I have the smoother riding GXE, maybe we can work something out. But I can't exactly drive around with no struts for a day, ya know?