How to check the service history of a car

A car’s service history is like a health record, detailing maintenance and costs. Knowing how to check a car’s service history helps you avoid buying a complete dud, as a poorly maintained car is more likely to face issues.

Wondering how to find the service history of a car? In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to check it and what to look for to make a smarter purchase.

What is a car service?

A car service is a record of the maintenance, repairs, and services performed on a car throughout its life. Typically logged in a service book, it includes regular tasks such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and wheel balancing. A comprehensive service history may also feature itemised receipts and invoices for repairs, offering an accurate timeline of the car’s upkeep and part replacements.

How to find the service history of a car

Look through the service book

The easiest way to find a car’s service history is by checking the service book, which typically comes with the car. This book includes stamps from garages detailing services, repairs, and maintenance work, along with the mileage and time between services. Be aware, though, that it won’t show the cost or extent of the work.

Ask for receipts or invoices for work

The car owner might have kept receipts or invoices for maintenance and repairs. These can give you insight into the car’s mechanical condition and show it has been well cared for.

Call garages listed in the service book

If you have the service book, consider contacting the listed garages to inquire about the car’s service history. It’s not guaranteed, but some may have records of the work done.

Request a digital record

Several manufacturers, such as Mercedes, Ford and Volkswagen, offer digital records for certain models. You may need to explain why you’re requesting the information, and it will generally only cover services done by authorised service centres.

How to check a car’s service history is legitimate

Car service history fraud, though rare, does happen. Some sellers may fabricate a car’s service history to make it appear better maintained than it actually is. To verify a car’s service history, try these tips:

• Contact the garages mentioned in the service book – they may confirm if the work was actually done on the car.
• Make sure the dates and mileage on the invoices match what’s listed in the service book.
• Some modern cars store service records in their infotainment system, which is harder to fake.

If you have doubts about the legitimacy of the service history, don’t be afraid to walk away from the car.

Can I buy a car with no service history?

It’s possible to buy a car with no service history, but it’s not recommended. Without a service history, you can’t be sure if the car has had regular maintenance, which increases the risk of potential issues down the line.

Think of it like dental care: regular check-ups help prevent problems, but skipping them can lead to bigger issues later. If you decide to buy a car without a service history, it’s important to have a mechanic inspect the car to identify any potential problems.

It’s also wise to get the car serviced as soon as possible and keep a record of any work done. This will help maintain the car’s value when you go on to sell it.

Checking a car’s service history FAQs

Can I check a car’s service history online?

You can check a car’s service history online, but availability depends on the car’s age, brand, and where it’s been serviced. Digital service records are usually stored in the manufacturer’s database, which can only be accessed by franchised dealerships or registered centres. Some brands, such as Volkswagen, offer apps to view service history and maintenance schedules.

Is a car service a legal requirement?

No. It’s perfectly legal to drive a car that hasn’t been serviced. However, it must have a valid MOT. Check the MOT status and history of any car in the UK using Carwow’s free MOT check.

How does a service history affect the value of a car?

A strong service history proves how well looked after a car is, meaning it’s much less likely to go wrong compared to a car without it. In turn, this increases the value of a car comparatively.

What is the difference between a service history and MOT history?

An MOT test is a legal requirement to prove the roadworthiness of a car, and its history shows if a car has failed tests previously and on what points.

A service history shows maintenance work that has been carried out on a car, including but not limited to oil changes, new filters and other fluids. It’s not a legal requirement, however.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

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