Understanding Car Service History

If you are planning to buy or sell a car, the term ‘service history’ is one you may encounter frequently. A car’s service history is a detailed record of its maintenance over time, including when services were conducted and whether any notable repairs were necessary. Having a comprehensive service history offers insight into the car’s condition, making it a critical factor in determining value.

Why Service History Matters

A car with a full service history (FSH) indicates that it has been regularly maintained and that previous owners have invested in its upkeep. For sellers, having an FSH not only builds trust with potential buyers but also enhances the car’s desirability, often leading to a higher selling price. Buyers, on the other hand, can feel more confident in their purchase when the car’s maintenance history shows timely service, reducing the risk of unexpected repairs in the future.

How to Access a Car’s Service History

To locate a vehicle’s service history, you can start with the service book provided when the car was purchased. This book is typically stamped by the garages that have serviced the vehicle, documenting each service appointment. Additionally, many dealerships and garages now keep online records that can be accessed easily. If any information is missing, contacting prior service providers or checking online databases associated with the car’s make can help fill in the gaps.