Would appreciate advice as to when my next oil change should be, and whether I should use full synthetic, partial synthetic or regular oil.

I own a 2005 G5x which I bought new. I *really* like this car!

I had the oil changed at around 3750 miles and put in FULL SYNTHETIC oil, per the service manager's advice based on my driving habits, which then were only 3000 miles/year. I now drive around 5000 - 6000 miles a year, with about 30 - 40% being highway miles, and live in the midwest. Mileage is now 8700.

Many thanks.

go full synthetic. my ML500 benz has full synthetic from the factory. thats why some benz dont change the oil till every 10k. if you go full synthetic you could change oil less frequently also.

Killerlexus,

Thanks for your perspective! So I guess I can safely wait until at least 7500 miles since the previous oil change.

red line oil and 2500-3500 miles

How many quarts does that ML500 take?

depends on which synthetic you are using, some don't have an extended drain interval

Also it depends on if your engine is working properly to warrant extended drains. Which can't be determined w/o an analysis.

royal purple and mobil 1 oil filter.

with as little miles as your car has... i wouldn't hesitate to take it to the stealership and let them do it, being mindful they'll use a synthetic...

There is just something pleasurable and pleasing to a man. When he performs his own oil changes.

But if you get a couple free oil changes from the dealership, I would use them up quick, every thousand miles. When your brand new engine breaks in, there are chances of small metal shavings in your oil. Get rid of them and that cheap dinosaur oil.

Go Full Synthetic FTMFW!!! It will not only last longer, but provide better lubrication to your engine and give you more horse power.

Yes, RedLine and Royal Purple are the highest of quality. If you run your car very hard, competitions, or your an obsessive enthusiast. By all means use the best and change it in half the miles.

Best opportunity cost IMO:
Go to Wal-Mart
Buy jack stands and a jack if you dont already have them and an oil pan.
Mobil1 Full Synthetic (5qt jug)= $21
Fram oil filter : Tough Guard or Double Guard = $4
(maybe go higher end if they have them +3)

$25 and for the do it yourselfer

I change everything out around 5000 miles.
Chances are, the color will still be golden and not black.

I bring my own oil and filter to Nissan and get it changed for under $15. Worth it to me.