First, please let me apologize if this has been asked/answered elsewhere. My knowledge of lubricants is quite limited, so to be honest, I'm not exactly sure what to look for when searching for advice. Please forgive my ignorance.

That said, I just purchased an '05 SE. I intend to keep this vehicle until the wheels fall off and I'm interested in taking the best care possible. As you know, the manual states that the first oil change should be performed at 3,750 miles. I've heard that, to maximize engine life, it should be performed at 1,000 miles. I'm at 900 miles right now.

I've read the VQ35DE new engine break-in thread, but it seems that discussion revolves around '03 Maximas. Also, I couldn't even tell you the difference between Castor and Synthetic oil, 5-30W and 10-30W, etc. I want to learn, though.

1. When I change my oil at 1,000 miles, what exact oil should I request?

2. I noticed some talk about how the standard issue oil filter is sub-par. Should I replace it with a new one? If so, which one?

3. As I understand it so far, the switch from Castor to Synthetic is a bit of a milestone. For the '05 Maxima, at what point should this transition be made? Should any special care be taken, such as a new 'break-in' period?

Thanks in advance,
JTB

 

Although my car is a 95 not a 05, I will comment based on my experience. My first scheduled oil change was at 6,000 kilometres (3,750 miles). I took it to the stealership and had it changed at 3,000 km even though they recommended not doing it. If you elect to get it changed early don't bother taking it to the dealership. However, I would be inclined to go to the dealership and buy a Nissan oil filter for it.

Read your manual as to what weight oil to use. I use Castrol GTX 5W-30. You should postpone the decision on switching to synthetic for some time and there are numerous threads on this, say 20,000 miles or whatever the recommended waiting period is, but certainly not so soon.

There is no such thing as a new break-in period if you are simply changing from dino to synthetic oil.

 

As for oil I would use Mobil 1. I use 0w-40. I can't help you with the break in question, but the guys on bobistheoilguy.com can. I don't think you can change your oil too soon. I'm not sure about the 05 oil filters, but for an 03 there are 2 different OEM sizes, 3 different Mobil 1 sizes and 2 NAPA sizes. You should try the 6th gen forum.