Best Tires for a 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum

Choosing the right tires for your 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum can dramatically improve ride quality, handling, and fuel efficiency. This guide covers top-rated all-season, performance, and winter tires that match the Maxima’s luxury and power, helping you make a confident, informed decision.

If you’re the proud owner of a 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum, you already know you’re driving a luxury sedan that blends power, comfort, and style. With a 3.5L V6 engine delivering 300 horsepower and a refined interior packed with premium features, the Maxima Platinum is built to impress. But even the most powerful engine and plush seats can’t compensate for poor tires. That’s why choosing the best tires for your 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a driver.

Tires are the only part of your car that touches the road—literally your connection to safety, handling, and performance. The right set can improve braking distance, enhance cornering stability, reduce road noise, and even boost fuel efficiency. On the flip side, the wrong tires can make your smooth ride feel harsh, increase stopping distances, and wear out quickly. Whether you’re commuting daily, taking weekend road trips, or dealing with snowy winters, your tire choice directly impacts your driving experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the best tires for your 2016 Maxima Platinum. From understanding tire sizes and types to reviewing top-rated models across different categories, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also share practical tips on installation, maintenance, and when to replace your tires. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose tires that not only fit your car but also match your lifestyle and driving habits.

Key Takeaways

• Match tire type to your driving needs: All-season tires offer balanced performance for daily driving, while performance tires enhance handling and grip for spirited driving.
• Check OEM specifications: The 2016 Maxima Platinum typically uses 245/40R19 or 245/45R18 tires—stick to these sizes for optimal fit and performance.
• Prioritize treadwear and warranty: Look for tires with high treadwear ratings and long warranties to maximize value and longevity.
• Consider noise and comfort: Luxury sedans like the Maxima benefit from low-noise, comfort-focused tires for a smoother ride.
• Winter driving demands special tires: If you live in snowy or icy regions, dedicated winter tires significantly improve safety and traction.
• Brand reputation matters: Trusted brands like Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, and Bridgestone consistently deliver reliable, high-performing tires.
• Professional installation is key: Proper mounting, balancing, and alignment ensure even wear and peak performance.

Understanding Your 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum’s Tire Needs

Before diving into specific tire recommendations, it’s essential to understand what your Maxima Platinum requires. This luxury sedan was designed with performance and comfort in mind, so your tires should reflect that balance. The Platinum trim typically comes equipped with 18- or 19-inch wheels, depending on the specific model year and options. The most common tire sizes are 245/45R18 and 245/40R19.

Let’s break that down:
– **245** = tread width in millimeters
– **45 or 40** = aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of tread width)
– **R** = radial construction
– **18 or 19** = wheel diameter in inches

Using the correct size ensures proper speedometer accuracy, maintains suspension geometry, and prevents rubbing or clearance issues. Always check your owner’s manual or the tire placard on the driver’s side door jamb to confirm your exact size.

The Maxima Platinum’s suspension is tuned for a smooth, responsive ride, so tires with good ride comfort and responsive handling are ideal. Additionally, because this is a front-wheel-drive sedan with significant power, traction and grip—especially during acceleration—are important. You’ll want tires that can handle the torque without excessive slip, particularly in wet or cold conditions.

Another factor to consider is load index and speed rating. The Maxima Platinum is a heavy car, so your tires must support its weight. Most OEM tires have a load index of 98 or higher (capable of supporting up to 1,653 lbs per tire) and a speed rating of V (up to 149 mph) or W (up to 168 mph). Sticking to these ratings ensures safety and performance.

Types of Tires: Which One Is Right for You?

Not all tires are created equal. The type of tire you choose should align with your driving environment, climate, and personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the main tire categories and how they apply to the 2016 Maxima Platinum.

All-Season Tires

All-season tires are the most popular choice for drivers in moderate climates. They’re designed to perform well in dry, wet, and light winter conditions, making them a versatile option for year-round use. For the Maxima Platinum, all-season tires offer a great balance of comfort, longevity, and everyday performance.

These tires typically feature a symmetric tread pattern with circumferential grooves to channel water away and reduce hydroplaning. They also include siping—tiny slits in the tread blocks—that improve grip on wet or lightly snowy roads. While they’re not as capable as dedicated winter tires in heavy snow, they’re more than adequate for regions with mild winters.

If you live in an area with temperatures rarely dropping below 45°F (7°C), all-season tires are likely your best bet. They’re quiet, fuel-efficient, and built to last 50,000 to 80,000 miles depending on the model.

Performance Tires

Performance tires are engineered for drivers who want sharper handling, better cornering grip, and improved responsiveness. These tires often have a lower profile (like the 245/40R19 size) and stiffer sidewalls, which reduce flex during aggressive driving.

For the Maxima Platinum—a car with sporty DNA—performance tires can unlock its full potential. They’re ideal if you enjoy spirited driving, take winding roads, or simply want a more connected feel behind the wheel. Many performance tires also offer enhanced braking performance, which is crucial given the Maxima’s 300-horsepower engine.

However, there are trade-offs. Performance tires typically wear out faster than all-season tires and may produce more road noise. They also perform poorly in snow and ice, so they’re best suited for warm or dry climates.

Touring Tires

Touring tires are a subcategory of all-season tires, but they’re specifically designed for luxury and comfort. They prioritize a quiet ride, smooth handling, and long tread life—perfect for a premium sedan like the Maxima Platinum.

These tires often feature advanced noise-canceling technology, such as foam liners or variable pitch tread blocks, to minimize road noise. They also have reinforced sidewalls for added comfort and durability. If you spend a lot of time on highways or value a serene cabin environment, touring tires are an excellent choice.

Winter/Snow Tires

If you live in an area with harsh winters—think heavy snow, ice, or temperatures consistently below freezing—winter tires are a must. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires are made with softer rubber compounds that stay flexible in cold weather, providing superior traction.

They also feature aggressive tread patterns with deep grooves and dense siping to grip snow and slush. Winter tires can reduce braking distances by up to 30% compared to all-season tires in snowy conditions. For Maxima owners in the Northeast, Midwest, or mountainous regions, investing in a set of winter tires can significantly improve safety.

Keep in mind that winter tires should only be used in cold months. Using them in warm weather accelerates wear and reduces fuel efficiency. Most drivers switch to all-season or performance tires in spring and reinstall winter tires in late fall.

Top Tire Recommendations for the 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum

Now that you understand the different tire types, let’s look at some of the best options available for your Maxima Platinum. These recommendations are based on expert reviews, customer feedback, and performance testing.

Best All-Around All-Season Tire: Michelin Premier A/S

The Michelin Premier A/S is a top-tier all-season tire that excels in wet and dry conditions. It features Michelin’s innovative EverGrip technology, which uses expanding rain grooves and hidden grooves that open as the tire wears, maintaining traction over time.

Owners of the Maxima Platinum praise this tire for its smooth ride, quiet operation, and excellent braking performance. It’s also rated for up to 60,000 miles, making it a great long-term investment. While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of safety, comfort, and durability justifies the cost.

Best Performance Tire: Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus

For drivers who want to maximize the Maxima’s sporty capabilities, the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus is a standout choice. This ultra-high-performance all-season tire delivers exceptional grip, precise steering response, and strong wet-weather performance.

It’s designed for luxury and performance vehicles, making it a natural fit for the Maxima Platinum. The DWS 06 Plus also includes a wear indicator, so you can easily monitor tread depth. With a 50,000-mile warranty, it offers solid longevity for a performance tire.

Best Touring Tire: Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II

If comfort and quiet are your top priorities, the Pirelli Cinturato P7 All Season Plus II is hard to beat. This touring tire is engineered for luxury sedans and emphasizes a smooth, noise-free ride.

It features Pirelli’s Green Performance technology, which reduces rolling resistance for better fuel economy. The asymmetric tread pattern provides confident handling in both dry and wet conditions. With a 70,000-mile treadwear warranty, it’s also one of the longest-lasting options on this list.

Best Winter Tire: Bridgestone Blizzak WS90

When winter hits, the Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 is one of the most trusted winter tires on the market. It uses Bridgestone’s multicell compound, which absorbs water from the road surface to improve grip on ice and snow.

The WS90 also features zigzag sipes and a directional tread pattern for excellent traction in deep snow. Maxima owners in cold climates report significantly improved confidence and control during winter driving. Just remember to store your summer or all-season tires properly when switching to winter tires.

Budget-Friendly Option: General Altimax RT43

If you’re looking for solid performance without breaking the bank, the General Altimax RT43 is a great value pick. This all-season tire offers reliable handling, good wet traction, and a comfortable ride—all at a lower price point.

It’s not as refined as premium brands, but it’s a smart choice for drivers who want dependable performance on a budget. With a 65,000-mile warranty, it also offers excellent longevity for the price.

Installation, Maintenance, and When to Replace

Choosing the right tire is only half the battle—proper installation and maintenance are just as important. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your new tires.

Professional Installation

Always have your tires installed by a certified technician. This ensures proper mounting, balancing, and alignment. Improperly balanced tires can cause vibrations, uneven wear, and reduced fuel efficiency. A professional will also check for any suspension issues that could affect tire performance.

Most tire shops offer free installation with purchase, and many include services like valve stem replacement and TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) reset—important for the Maxima Platinum’s onboard systems.

Regular Maintenance

To maximize tire life and performance, follow these maintenance tips:
– **Check tire pressure monthly:** Underinflated tires wear faster and reduce fuel economy. Use the pressure listed on your door jamb, not the max pressure on the tire sidewall.
– **Rotate tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles:** This promotes even wear and extends tread life.
– **Inspect for damage:** Look for cuts, bulges, or embedded objects. Address issues promptly to avoid blowouts.
– **Align wheels annually:** Misaligned wheels cause uneven wear and poor handling.

When to Replace Your Tires

Even the best tires don’t last forever. Here are signs it’s time for a replacement:
– **Tread depth below 2/32 inch:** Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test (insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down—if you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace).
– **Uneven wear patterns:** Could indicate alignment or suspension problems.
– **Cracks or dry rot:** Common in older tires, even if tread looks good.
– **Age:** Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 6–10 years, regardless of tread depth.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

The 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum is a remarkable car, and it deserves tires that match its performance and luxury. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, or all-weather capability, there’s a tire out there that’s perfect for your driving style and environment.

Remember, the best tires for a 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum aren’t just about brand names or price tags—they’re about finding the right balance of safety, comfort, and performance for your needs. Take the time to assess your driving habits, climate, and budget. Read reviews, compare warranties, and consult with a trusted tire professional.

Investing in quality tires is one of the smartest things you can do for your Maxima. Not only will it enhance your driving experience, but it will also keep you and your passengers safe on every journey. So go ahead—give your Maxima the upgrade it deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tire size does a 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum use?

The 2016 Nissan Maxima Platinum typically uses 245/45R18 or 245/40R19 tires, depending on the wheel size. Always check your door jamb placard or owner’s manual to confirm your specific size.

Can I use all-season tires in winter?

All-season tires can handle light snow and cold temperatures, but they’re not ideal for heavy snow or ice. If you live in a region with harsh winters, dedicated winter tires are strongly recommended for safety.

How often should I rotate my Maxima’s tires?

Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan. Regular rotation also helps maintain balanced handling and performance.

Are performance tires worth it for the Maxima Platinum?

Yes, if you enjoy spirited driving or want sharper handling. Performance tires enhance grip and responsiveness, but they may wear faster and produce more noise than touring or all-season tires.

How long do tires last on a Maxima Platinum?

Most quality all-season tires last between 50,000 and 80,000 miles, depending on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. Check tread depth regularly and replace when it reaches 2/32 inch.

Should I buy the same brand of tires that came with my Maxima?

Not necessarily. While OEM tires are designed for your car, aftermarket options often offer better performance, comfort, or value. Compare reviews and features to find the best fit for your needs.