Car service history

What is a service history?

In the UK, a car’s service history is the record of maintenance and servicing that has been done on the car over time.

This can include things like:

• Oil and filter changes
• Brake fluid changes
• Replacement of air filters, spark plugs, timing belts
• Scheduled manufacturer services

Where can you find the service history?

You can find records of servicing in the following places:

• Service book / maintenance booklet
• Invoices and receipts from garages
• Dealer printouts if it was serviced by the dealer
• Digital service records for newer cars

When buying a used car, you might find the service history in a mix of the above.

Why does a good service history matter?

• It ensures the car has been looked after and reduces the risks of hidden problems.
• Makes it easier to sell the car in the future. A car with good service history will be considered a less risky purchase.