i read the FAQ for the 2002 Maxima SE 17" stock 17 X 7 info and it said that the : 225/45/17 are okay to run on the stock rims..

My question is whether or not it is a good idea to get this size as winter tires or is it better to get the regular : 225/50r17 or try and find something wider?

also if the tread is rated : 9/32 how many more seasons of tread does it have left?

thanks

 

9/32 is an almost new tire you should have plenty of life left in those tires.

 

FYI, my winters were 13/32nds new. 9/32nds probably have seen a couple of seasons. I say two more winters is what you can expect before they taper off.

 

A wide, low profile or large tire has to "plow" a wide path through snow which causes more resistance. The narrower the tire, the easier you can get through snow.

 

For winter tires, I'd opt for the 225/50-R17 size over the 225/45-R17. The bigger sidewall will be a bit more compliant, which is generally accepted as being better in the snow.