I am having my first oil change in the 2014 CTD tomorrow at 5500 miles. It still shows 72% life on the oil. We are headed out for a 7000 mile trip early next month and figure we should start the trip on new oil. We have free life time oil changes and I am sure they aren't going to go for early changes. I have never gone over 6000 miles between oil changes and this meter is going to be an issue with me. But I would recommend, as others, make yourself comfortable with an early change.
BTW. This is my 55th year of driving and I have never experienced an engine failure. :)
