im about to change my oil and was wondering what kind of oil do you guys use. Also what type of oil filter and is the oil filter brand important or do they all basically do the same thing.

 

The issue of synthetic versus standard engine oil has been the subject of much discussion. There are ardent advocates on both sides and the debate sometimes approaches religious intensity. I prefer to remain nonpartisan on this question.

My personal practice is to change oil and filter at 5K mile intervals. It is possible to change the oil on a Maxima without raising the car, but I prefer to do so. That provides an easy opportunity to slide under and make a visual inspection of the underside, with special attention to the Constant Velocity joint boots.

I use standard engine oil and have no brand preference. I buy whatever name-brand 5W-30 oil is on sale at the time.

I have no brand preference in oil filters, other than an aversion to Fram filters. This is based on the findings of Russell W. Knize. See:
http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/minimo...lter-fram1.txt
http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/minimo...study-faq.html
http://members.nbci.com/_XMCM/minimo...lter-fram1.txt

I don't use any sort of engine oil additive (Slick-50, etc.).

My driving is mostly on highways at moderate speeds. I don't race or tow a trailer. Your driving pattern might be different and you might make different choices.

If I lived in a region of climatic extremes I might choose to use synthetic engine oil.

 

Check this link out. Its a comparison of an OEM oil filter and some "other oil filter."
http://www.motorvate.ca/auto/maxima/...oil_filter.htm
Its why I have an OEM one sitting in my garage for my next oil change. I use synthetic but its up to you.

 

I use Mobil 1 Synthetic Blend.

 

I find the OEM filters are cheaper then the after-market filters.
Then again, it might be my local auto part store ripping people off again....just don't know. I use OEM filters and conventional oil every 5K.