Selecting disks for Nissan Maxima - a task that requires attention to technical nuances. An error in the bolt pattern parameters can lead not only to vibrations at speed, but also to damage to the hubs or suspension. This is especially true for model owners A35 (2004–2015) And eighth generation (A36, from 2016), where the parameters may differ from classical Japanese standards.
In this article you will find Precise Bolt Pattern Data (PCD), allowable offset (ET), center hole diameter (DIA) and other critical parameters for all generations Maxima. We will also look at which discs are interchangeable with other models. Nissan (For example, Teana or Altima), and we will give recommendations on the selection of non-original wheels without risk to safety.
If you plan to install wheels with non-standard parameters - for example, with an increased offset for tuning - here you will find out which deviations are permissible and which will lead to premature wear of the wheel bearings or interference with the brake calipers.
What is a bolt pattern (PCD) and why is it important for the Nissan Maxima
Bolt pattern (or PCD — Pitch Circle Diameter) is the diameter of the circle on which the centers of the disk mounting holes are located. For Nissan Maxima this parameter is traditionally 5×114.3 mm, which corresponds to most Japanese business class sedans. However, there are nuances:
- 🔧 Generations A32–A34 (1995–2003) - PCD 5x114.3, but with a smaller central hole diameter (DIA 66.1 mm) than later models.
- 🚗 A35 (2004–2015) — the same bolt pattern, but with a DIA of 66.9 mm, which complicates the selection of universal disks.
- ⚡ A36 (since 2016) — The PCD remains the same, but the offset tolerances (ET) have changed due to the modified suspension.
A discrepancy between the PCD even by 1–2 mm will result in the disc not sitting tightly on the hub. This will call:
- 🔄 Steering wheel beating at speeds over 80 km/h.
- 🛠️ Uneven tire wear (especially the inner edge).
- 💥 Risk of wheel separation during emergency braking (in critical cases).
⚠️ Attention: Discs with PCD 5×120 (for example, from BMW 5 Series) can visually approach the hub Maxima, but the fastening will be unreliable. Using adapter rings (adapters) prohibited - this violates the suspension geometry and voids the warranty.
- A32–A34 (1995–2003)
- A35 (2004–2015)
- A36 (since 2016)
- I haven't bought it yet, I'm choosing
Wheel bolt pattern table for all generations of Nissan Maxima
Below are the official parameters from the manufacturer. Pay attention to differences in center bore diameter (DIA) - this is critical when choosing wheels without adapter rings.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | PCD (bolt pattern) | Reach ET (mm) | DIA (mm) | Mounting thread |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nissan Maxima A32 | 1995–1999 | 5×114.3 | 35–45 | 66.1 | M12×1.25 |
| Nissan Maxima A33/A34 | 1999–2003 | 5×114.3 | 35–45 | 66.1 | M12×1.25 |
| Nissan Maxima A35 | 2004–2015 | 5×114.3 | 35–40 | 66.9 | M12×1.25 |
| Nissan Maxima A36 | 2016–present | 5×114.3 | 30–40 | 66.9 | M12×1.25 |
Important: for models A36 (since 2016) flights allowed (ET) from 30 to 40 mm, but it is considered optimal ET35. Reducing the offset (for example, to ET20) will lead to:
- 🔥 Increased load on wheel bearings.
- 🚨 Risk of the tire hitting the arch when the car is fully loaded.
When purchasing used discs, check them for runout using a micrometer or at a service station. Even a slight deformation (0.3–0.5 mm) will lead to vibrations on the steering wheel.
Which wheels fit other Nissan models?
Owners Nissan Maxima They often look for alternative disc options from other brand models. Here are the compatible options:
- 🔄 Nissan Teana (J31/J32) — full compatibility for PCD (5×114.3) and DIA (66.9 mm) for models 2004–2019. Wheels with ET 35–40 are suitable.
- 🚗 Nissan Altima (L33) — the bolt pattern is the same, but the offset may differ (ET 40–45). It needs to be checked for interference with the calipers.
- ⚡ Infiniti G35/G37 — the same PCD/DIA parameters, but the width of the disks is often larger (8–9J versus 7–8J for Maxima). Suitable for tuning.
Incompatible models:
- ❌ Nissan Qashqai - PCD 5x114.3, but DIA 66.1 mm (not suitable for A35/A36).
- ❌ Nissan X-Trail — bolt pattern 5×114.3, but offset ET 40–50 (too large for Maxima).
⚠️ Attention: Discs from Nissan Skyline (e.g. R34) have PCD 5x114.3, but their width (9–10J) and offset (ET 15–25) are not compatible with the suspension Maxima. Installing such discs will require modification of the arches and replacement of shock absorbers.
Is it possible to install wheels from a Toyota Camry?
Yes, but only for generations Nissan Maxima A32–A34 (1995–2003). U Toyota Camry XV30/XV40 (2002–2011) bolt pattern 5×114.3 and DIA 60.1 mm, but will be required for installation centering rings (adapters 60.1→66.1 mm). For A35/A36 this option is not suitable due to the difference in DIA (66.9 mm).
How to correctly measure the bolt pattern yourself
If you are buying used wheels or are unsure about the markings, you can measure the PCD yourself. You will need a caliper or ruler. Algorithm:
- Measure the distance between the centers of two adjacent holes (for example,
A). - Multiply the result by the coefficient:
- For 5 holes:
A × 1.701. - For 4 holes:
A × 1.414.
- For 5 holes:
Example for Nissan Maxima:
- Distance between holes (
A) = 72 mm. - PCD = 72 × 1.701 ≈ 122.5 mm (rounded to 114.3 mm).
Use a caliper to check the center hole diameter (DIA). Permissible deviation is no more than ±0.1 mm. If the disc's DIA is larger than that of the hub, it will require centering rings (for example, 66.9→67.1 mm).
Measure PCD (should be 5×114.3mm)
Check DIA (66.1 or 66.9 mm depending on generation)
Verify that the offset (ET) is within the acceptable range
Inspect the disc for cracks and corrosion -->
Consequences of incorrect bolt pattern: what happens if you make a mistake
Installing disks with incorrect parameters leads to serious problems. Let's consider the consequences for each deviation:
| Parameter | Deviation | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| PCD | 5×114.3 → 5×120 | Uneven bolt tightening, vibration, risk of wheel tearing off. |
| Departure (ET) | ET40 → ET20 | Increased load on the bearings, the tire touching the arch. |
| DIA | 66.9 → 72.6 (without rings) | Wheel runout, inaccurate alignment, accelerated tire wear. |
It is especially dangerous to ignore departure (ET). For example, if on Maxima A36 install disks with ET20 instead of the recommended ET35, then:
- 🔧 The track width will increase by 30 mm (15 mm per side), which will change the suspension geometry.
- 🛠️ Steering will become less accurate (turning radius will increase).
- 💥 When driving through potholes, the risk of damage to shock absorbers will increase.
⚠️ Attention: If, after installing new discs, vibration appears at speeds of 60–80 km/h, immediately check:
- Wheel balancing (even new wheels can be unbalanced).
- Tightening the bolts (torque for Maxima —
100–110 Nm).- Hub and disc alignment (if DIA is incorrect).
Ignoring vibrations will lead to the destruction of bearings within 5–10 thousand km.
Recommendations for choosing wheels for tuning
If you plan to install wheels with non-standard parameters (for example, increased width or reduced offset), follow these rules:
- 🔧 Disc width: For Maxima A35/A36 maximum recommended width -
9J(for tires 245/40 R19). Wider rims will require rolling out the arches. - 🚗 Departure (ET): Minimum allowable -
ET25(for A36). Less - only with suspension modification. - ⚡ Diameter: Maximum -
R20(for A36). For A35 the limit isR19due to limitations of the braking system.
Examples of compatible configurations:
- 🔄 For A35 (2004–2015): Wheels 8.5J×19 ET35 with 245/45 R19 tires.
- 🚗 For A36 (from 2016): Wheels 9J×20 ET30 with tires 245/40 R20 (check the clearance to the caliper required).
Please check brake compatibility before purchasing. For example, on Maxima A36 with rear brakes 320 mm disks R20 may not fit due to small gap. Use disk template (can be cut out of cardboard) for preliminary testing.
When tuning, give priority to light wheels (for example, forged ones). Reducing unsprung weight by 2–3 kg per wheel improves acceleration and braking by 5–7%.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the Nissan Maxima bolt pattern
Is it possible to install wheels with PCD 5x112 (from Volkswagen) on Maxima?
No. A difference of 2.3 mm (114.3 vs 112) will result in only 2-3 bolts out of 5 being tightened correctly. This creates uneven load on the hub and can lead to the wheel coming off during emergency braking.
What bolts are needed for wheels on Maxima A36?
Original bolts - M12×1.25 27–30 mm long (depending on the thickness of the disc). For wheels with increased thickness (for example, for tuning), use bolts up to 40 mm long, but with same thread.
What to do if the DIA of the disc is larger than that of the hub?
Use centering rings made of aluminum or plastic. For example, for a disk with a DIA of 72.6 mm on a hub of 66.9 mm you will need a ring with a thickness 2.85 mm. Important: the rings must be accurate - even a gap of 0.2 mm will cause runout.
Is it possible to drive with different rims on the front and rear axles?
Technically possible, but not recommended. Different weights of discs (for example, cast at the front and stamped at the rear) worsen car balancing and can lead to:
- 🔄 Skids when braking.
- 🛠️ Uneven tire wear.
If this is a temporary measure, do not exceed the speed of 100 km/h.
How often should I check the bolts for tightness after installing new discs?
After the first 100 km, then after 500 km, and then every 10,000 km. Tightening torque for Maxima — 100–110 Nm. Use a torque wrench, as it is easy to overtighten or undertighten by eye.