My 03 Maxima has 275k miles on it, runs fine just won't exceed 105 mph. I've been told countless times they go 120-145 mph. What is the problem?

 

03 Maxima GXE? Mostly likely CPU limited because of OEM tires speed rating.

 

It's a 03 Maxima GLE

 

You're right in that the car should easily go 145-150 mph with 255hp under the hood.....unrestricted CPU not withstanding.

 

I'm pretty sure they're drag limited around 143-145mph or so. My 5th gen gets to 145 before it hits the limiter, and 5.5gen body is basically the same so I think drag would be the same.

Now here is the key, IIRC only the SE models weren't limited, both the GXE & GLE were limited. Not sure if that was the same for the 5.5gen but I imagine probably so.

 

I thought drag limit was 153

 

If the GXE and GLE were limited, that explains the OPs issue.

 

I'm sure you found this out ona dyno ..

02-03 AT's were/have been said to have a soft limiter in the late 120's.


My 03 AT with TS-Fspec at the top of 3rd gear @ 7100 RPM.

 

I[I] believe it is more of a safety issue

Wheels and Tires

GXE: 16" 5 spoke al-alloy wheels with 215/55HR16 tires
Overall height: 56.3 Turning diameter:35.4 ft

SE: 17" 6 spoke al-alloy wheels with P225/50VR17 performance tire
Overall height: 56.7 with sport tuned suspension, higher spring rate
thicker front stabilizer bar
Turning diameter:40.0

GLE: 17" 7 spoke al-alloy wheels with P215/55HR17
Overall height: 57.1 Turning diameter:40.00

[/I]

 

That's true in that many car makers wont allow the car to go above it's OEM tire rating.