Alternative Factory Nissan Rims for 97 Pathfinder

[A1218]

Good afternoon everyone,

I am looking for a set of rims for my 97 Pathfinder SE. It has the stock 15 inch rims, however, there are not many options for tires and I'm looking for a set from either frontiers, Xterras, or later model Pathfinders. I know for sure that the 16 and 17 inch rims from the 2004 Pathfinders will fit, but will Forntier and Xterra rims fit without any issues? Do these rims have the same bore size as the factory 15 inch rims I have? I have manual locking hubs and a 1 inch spacer lift on my Pathfinder

I found these rims off an 03 Pathfinder SE: https://imgur.com/a/YkOPJK2

Door jam says 255/65/r16. Unfortunately, I am only finding 1 tire option online.

Is it safe and okay to install 255/70/r16 tires on these rims without issue for my vehicle?

Thank you

[AZhitman]

Yes, that size will be fine.

The new tire size will be 5% taller than the current tires, a negligible amount (13mm larger overall diameter) -roughly 1/2".

If you're still after wheels, the supercharged Xterra wheels are really cool, almost aftermarket looking.

[A1218]

Yes, that size will be fine.

The new tire size will be 5% taller than the current tires, a negligible amount (13mm larger overall diameter) -roughly 1/2".

If you're still after wheels, the supercharged Xterra wheels are really cool, almost aftermarket looking.

haha, yeah I did check those out. Those wheels are cool, but of course trying to find some in decent condition. Unfortunately, those 16 inch 2003 Pathfinder SE rims probably won't work with the mile marker hubs I have on. I've seen a few threads online where it doesn't fit properly due to the bore size of the rim.

Currently I have 265/70/r15 on my vehicle. Is there another size tire I can put on and keep these rims?

Thank you.

[AZhitman]

It'd be helpful to know what you're trying to accomplish with a different size. Bigger diameter? Wider tread? Lower profile? Or are you trying to stay within a budget?

Don't think you'll want to go much wider, considering those wheels are likely 6" wide.

[A1218]

It'd be helpful to know what you're trying to accomplish with a different size. Bigger diameter? Wider tread? Lower profile? Or are you trying to stay within a budget?

Don't think you'll want to go much wider, considering those wheels are likely 6" wide.

Essentially just to be able to purchase some good tires. Right now for my 15 inch rims, can’t find any name brand tires available. Tire rack only has to two Yokohamas in stock. So a stock Nissan rim and a wide tire selection is what I’m going for. Ideally I wanted to purchase a set of Michelin tires.

[AZhitman]

Keep in mind, what was a "good" brand back in the day may not be so anymore. They're certainly not my first choice for the last 20+ sets of tires I've bought.

Honestly, it'd be really helpful just to learn how tire sizing works, so you don't have to ask (and so we don't give you something you don't want).

https://www.discounttire.com/fitmentres ... /265-70-15 All of these are decent options.

265/70/15 is probably as big as you can go on the current wheels. Have you looked at Titan 17" wheels? Any Nissan 4x4 wheel should be compatible re: bore size.

[Mike W.]

One very small data point. '07 Xterra (which I had, briefly) and '03 QX4 (which are probably the same as your Pathy) are both 6 lug wheels. And they are so far away from fitting it's not even funny. Different hub size, different bolt pattern, but both 6 lug...

Now, 15" wheels, rather tires, are virtually obsolete today, except for perhaps a Honda Civic. But short of new wheels, what is your wheel size? There are lots of non spec combos that will fit, safely, without going crazy and running 185 tires on a 10" wide wheel.

Might not, but might.

[A1218]

My current wheel size is 15x7 6 lug. I have 265/70/r15 right now

[Mike W.]

Not an expert on what wheels will fit, except for one that won't, which I know because I tried for a spare.

You're 265/70-15 is available in at least 3 different options from Tire Rack, which used to be great but is now terrible. I really didn't expect that size to be approved for a 7" wheel, but it is. So tires are out there. Less than ideal perhaps, expensive, but what isn't today, but available.

Wheels. There are at least one, and I think more than one, parts sites that seem to be affiliated with or part of Nissan. Using that and digging in, you might be able to find out what should fit by cross referencing things. Anything from a spare wheel to hub to axle flange. Might take some time.

Do you have any DIY junkyards, AKA Pick and Pull, near you? Armed with as little as a tape measure, and your existing measurements, you might be able to find out a lot more. As I did with Xterra wheels not even being close to fitting my QX4. Junkyards are a dying breed, but that alone might be worth a call if you have one nearby. Just call, explain and ask. They want to sell, sometimes they know exactly what fits and what doesn't. Just bring your tape measure.

Not an answer, but hopefully help.

[A1218]

Yeah if anything I’ll go with the Yokohama all seasons from discount tire if the search becomes too difficult. I live in queens, NYC so there are a few yards around, but nothing substantial. You’re also not allowed in the lots around here.

I’ve been searching all over through car-part.com which is helping me find yards that do have it. Just trying to make sure everything will fit properly. Like I mentioned before I did find a nice set of 03’ Pathfinder rims, but not too sure if the mile mark hubs that I have on will fit the bore of that rim.

I don’t mind driving a little distance to get the rims that will work. Just want to make sure it’s worth the drive haha.

I’ve been studying for my Physical Therapy board exam that I took today. So I’ll have more time now to research and search around for something.

I appreciate everyone’s help! Thank you