When purchasing a pre-owned vehicle, a vehicle service history check will show you how well it’s been cared for. This type of check also reassures potential buyers that the seller likely maintains other important documents related to the car’s upkeep and repairs.
How To Check A Car’s Service History
When you purchase a car, it should ideally come with a service book. This book records details like the garage that performed each service, mileage at the time of service, completed works, and an official stamp for authentication. Some owners also provide receipts or invoices for the work done and the costs, all contributing to the car’s service history.
The Necessity Of A Service Check
Ensuring a car has a comprehensive service history is vital when making a purchase. You want to confirm that the vehicle has been well-maintained and that the seller isn’t concealing any mechanical issues that could lead to expensive or hazardous problems in the future.
At MOT Reg Check, we offer a thorough and verified report, simplifying your access to a vehicle’s complete history…
- Verified Reports: Our full history checks provide all the information necessary for an informed vehicle purchase decision.
- Peace of Mind: Our checks come with a £30,000 data guarantee, ensuring you’re covered for any inaccuracies.
- We’re Here For You: Our customer service team is always available to assist and address any questions about your vehicle.
- Accurate Data: We use data directly from the DVLA to ensure 100% accuracy in the vehicle’s full-service history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was my car last serviced?
Understanding the service history of a vehicle is crucial for assessing its maintenance level and current condition. Services like MOT Reg Check offer the option to access data about a vehicle, including records of past owners, ensuring there are no unresolved insurance claims or instances of the car being written off, among other important details.
How do I know if the service history is genuine?
Determining the authenticity of a service history largely relies on practical judgement, as there’s no standard procedure to verify if the details are fabricated. Here are some practical steps:
- Examine the service record: For vehicles made in the last five years, check the digital service log if a physical Service History book isn’t available.
- Scrutinise the service book: Jot down the names of at least two garages mentioned. With the seller’s permission, take a photo of the service logs for future reference and to validate the authenticity of the addresses.
- Verify the mileage: Typically, cars require servicing every 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
- Research the garages: Look up and contact a few of the mechanics or garages listed. While they may not disclose specific service details, they can confirm whether a service was conducted.
Can I buy a car without a service history?
It’s not mandatory for sellers to provide a service history. For example, selling a 30-year-old car without any service records is entirely legal. Nevertheless, buyers are advised to be cautious when considering a car without any service or maintenance records. A responsible seller should be able to present proof that the car has been properly maintained and insured, including evidence of timely servicing.
Is it cheaper to buy a car without a full service history?
A vehicle lacking a complete service history usually sells for about 23% less than a similar vehicle with a full service history. If you’re considering purchasing a car with only a partial service record, keep this price difference in mind and be ready to negotiate the final price. Remember, buying a car without a service history carries more risk, so consider this carefully before finalising your purchase.
What’s the difference between a full service history and a main dealer service history?
The distinction between different types of service histories is often subtle, and whether one is provided or requested largely comes down to personal preference. Research indicates that having a genuine, complete service history is the most advantageous approach for buying or selling a vehicle in private transactions. Buyers should exercise caution when considering a car sold by a self-proclaimed ‘competent mechanic’ who fails to provide a service history. Such claims are frequently unverified and lack any formal qualifications or certifications.
