Importance of car service history.

The Importance of a Car’s Service History When Buying a Used Car

Purchasing a used car can be challenging and full of possible potential pitfalls. Be careful you might end up with a vehicle that causes more problems than it solves. One of the most crucial aspects to investigate is the car’s service history. This guide will walk you through everything you need to understand about service histories to ensure you buy a reliable used car. ¹

The Significance of a Car’s Service History

A comprehensive service history offers valuable insights into how well a vehicle has been maintained by its previous owner. It documents essential services and repairs conducted at regular intervals, including: ¹

• Oil changes.
• Fluid top-ups.
• Filter replacements.
• Brake repairs.
• Tyre rotations.
• Safety inspections.

This history allows you to assess whether critical maintenance tasks were performed on time and can reveal any gaps that might indicate neglect or hidden issues. Even a missed oil change can be a red flag for prospective buyers. A thorough service record reflects the car’s past care, directly impacting its current condition and future reliability. A well-documented service history gives you peace of mind, reducing the risk of unexpected problems. ¹

What Constitutes a Full-Service History?

A full-service history includes documentation of all manufacturer-recommended maintenance tasks. Car manufacturers typically provide servicing schedules based on mileage or time intervals. For a service history to be considered complete, it should include: ¹

• Service centre details for all performed tasks.
• Exact dates of servicing
• Odometer readings at the time of service
• Specific maintenance items performed.
• Details of any significant repairs or component replacements

Modern cars require numerous servicing tasks throughout their lifespan, and a complete history will include entries for all scheduled maintenance across years of ownership. Any gaps in this timeline or missing details for significant jobs indicate a partial history, which requires careful verification before purchasing the car. ¹

Understanding Part Service History

In contrast, a part of service history contains incomplete or sporadic records, often missing key servicing events. Common issues leading to partial histories include: ¹

• Only minor maintenance entries like oil changes.
• Significant gaps between servicing dates.
• No documentation of major repairs despite the car’s age.
• Vague descriptions without specific parts replacements.

Partial histories make verifying whether critical servicing needs to be addressed challenging. While the car may appear fine during a test drive, delayed maintenance can lead to future issues. It could be best to have a car with a partial history inspected by a certified mechanic to uncover any possible underlying problems. ¹

Types of Car Servicing

Understanding the diverse types of car servicing can help you make sense of service histories. Basic maintenance tasks fall into four main categories: ¹

• Full Service: Comprehensive maintenance covering all fluid checks, replacements, inspections, and tune-ups. They are typically performed annually.
• Manufacturer’s Service: Also known as interim service, this is done between complete services based on a fixed schedule. It includes inspections, fluid top-ups, filter changes, and software updates to prevent issues before the next major maintenance.
• Major Service: Extensive repairs and replacements, such as timing belts, gearboxes, and engine overhauls, are usually performed after the car reaches a significant mileage.

Finding a Car’s Service History

Service histories can be found through various sources: ¹

• Service Log: The most reliable proof, including shop bills and job cards for each maintenance task. Cross-check dates, mileage, and work done.
• In-Built Data: Modern car servicing logs are stored in their dashboard computer systems, which technicians can extract and translate into readable reports.
• Manufacturer Data: Brands with certified pre-owned programs maintain maintenance records linked to the car’s VIN. Dealers can access these history reports.
• Previous Owners: Tracing records from previous owners can be an option, but documents might need to be recovered or completed. Insist on original repair invoices for verification.

Car Service Checklist

Here’s a checklist of vital servicing items to monitor: ¹

1. Engine Oil: Ensure regular oil changes as recommended for synthetic blends.

2. Tyres: Rotate tyres regularly and replace them.

3. Lights: Check and replace bulbs to ensure visibility and safety.

4. Brakes: Replace brake pads and rotors periodically, and flush brake fluid every 2-3 years.

5. Fluids and Coolant: Regular top-ups and replacements every 2-3 years are crucial for optimal performance.

6. Suspension: Inspect shock absorbers, struts, and ball joints, replacing them as needed.

7. Car Battery: Replace the battery every 4-5 years to avoid electrical issues.

8. Wheel Alignment: Ensure proper alignment for better fuel efficiency and tyre lifespan.

9. Charging System: For hybrid/electric cars, check cables, ports, and charging components regularly.

Signs It’s Time for Car Servicing

Take your time with problems. Watch for these signs indicating it’s time for maintenance: ¹

• Persistent engine light.
• Shifting delays or jerkiness.
• Unusual noises during acceleration.
• Vibrations when braking or at high speeds.
• Excess exhaust smoke.
• Reduced cooling performance.
• A significant drop in mileage.

Use these indicators and maintenance schedules to ensure timely servicing, enhancing your car’s longevity and performance. ¹ Verifying service histories is essential when buying a used car, as complete histories indicate responsible maintenance, while gaps require careful inspection. Understanding the types of servicing helps you maintain your vehicle properly. Follow the checklists and watch for warning signs to schedule timely repairs, improving your car’s longevity and resale value. ¹

Disclaimer:

The article aims to teach South African motorists about the importance of car service history.

Do you have car insurance or want to buy it soon? Reach out to Prime South Africa, also known as PMD or Prime Meridian South Africa, for affordable car insurance with ample benefits like fixed premiums*, reducing excess*, and leading service. T’s and C’s apply. Please get professional financial advice from a certified financial advisor to ensure you select the appropriate financial services product.