Critical Inclusions to Look for When Inspecting a Used Car's Logbook Service History
When you are buying a used car, conducting due diligence is vital to ensure that you get value for money. It includes knowing the immediate previous owner and inspecting a vehicle for signs of damage or significant tear and wear. The inspection part is crucial because it informs you of the current condition of the car. Unfortunately, many used car buyers often forget to ask about logbook service, and if they do, they don't know what to look for. This article highlights what to look for in a logbook service history.
Dealer Stamp or Authorised Centre -- There are many service centres that car owners to take their vehicles to for logbook services. However, although some auto centres are licenced, they might not be authorised by the manufacturer of that specific brand of car. It is vital to consider accreditation because car dealers and car manufacturers want a certain level of service quality, so they prefer to work with select auto service centres that have received training in how to handle their vehicles. Thus, ensure that a logbook service card has stamps from all authorised service centres that have worked on the vehicle; otherwise, approach a purchase cautiously.
Type of Service Conducted -- When you buy a new car, a dealer or a manufacturer details the logbook services to be performed on the vehicle. For instance, a car manufacturer might indicate that an authorised mechanic should check the fan belt or fluids every six months. When each service is completed, a mechanic must indicate the type of service conducted in a logbook. Each entry acts as a quick reference for future auto centre visits because it informs a mechanic of the specific logbook services to be performed on a car. Therefore, if a used car's logbook does not indicate the type of checks or repairs conducted, you can conclude that the vehicle was neglected.
Date of Every Service -- Lastly, a logbook service history must show when each type of service was performed. Some checks are regularly conducted while others are done occasionally. For example, changing an oil filter is a regular service and should be done every few months. On the other hand, brake inspections and adjustments are performed occasionally, say every six months. Therefore, if there are no service dates on a logbook history, it becomes difficult to ascertain when and if each service was performed. In this regard, only buy a used car whose logbook shows the exact dates of every service.
