How to Maintain a Car Service Log for Better Resale Value

If you’ve ever had the experience of selling a car, you know one thing  buyers ask questions, and lots of them. “Has the car been serviced regularly?” “Any major repairs?” “Can I see the records?” This is why a car service log comes in handy.

Think of it like a journal for your car. Every oil change, every brake job, and every small or major repair it all goes in there. And when it comes time to sell the car, this journal can actually add value to your car.

Let’s look into the reasons why maintaining a car service log is important, and see how you can maintain one the easy way.

What Is a Car Service Log?

A car service log is simply a record of all the work performed on your car. It can be:

• Regular servicing (e.g. oil changes, filters, topping up fluids)
• Repairs (e.g. clutch, engine, gearbox, etc.)
• Replacements (e.g. battery, tyres, brake pads)
• Additional services (e.g. wheel alignment, AC cleaning, detailing)

Some manufacturers provide a small booklet for this, while a lot of modern service centres will keep electronic records. This is either way to show it is obvious that the car has had all the work done to look after it properly.

Why Is It Important for Resale Value ? 

The truth matters. Buyers may be after vehicles, but they will ultimately be after peace of mind. A service log will help you;

• Build immediate trust : The moment that you provide records, buyers know you are sincere. 
• Increase sales price : A well maintained car should be 10–15% more than one that’s been un-maintained. 
• Sell faster : Buyers prefer a car with a history because it feels more like an investment and not a risk.
• Avoid having second thoughts : Records verify your mileage, repairs, maintenance method and habits.
• Protect your warranty & or insurance : Several companies will not cover damage unless you have proof of service.

To summarize, a car with service history sells easily while one that has no service history will be viewed with a lot of suspicion.

Easy Tips to Maintain Your Car Service Log

1. Save Each Receipt

Those small  receipts are useful for showing you have documented the service. Even something as simple as a receipt for an oil change adds authenticity. 

2. Go Digital 

Apps such as CarInfo or manufacturer portals provide a way to check and save your car’s service records in the cloud. This is very convenient for when you are busy and need access to your records on the go.

3. Record Mileage and Date 

Be sure to record the odometer reading on your car every time you service your vehicle. This documentation helps prove your car’s actual mileage.

4. Be organized 

Keep everything organized in a binder, file, or even a Google Drive folder. You can only imagine the look of shock and admiration from the buyer when you have all this information recorded in order for them to show up on the service record!

5. Don’t skip even small services

The little services add value. Tyre rotations, wheel balancing, and even AC servicing might look insignificant but, again, they provide evidence of regular service for your car.

6. Get Your Service Booklet Stamped

If you have a manufacturer-issued service booklet, make sure it’s updated and stamped after every visit.

Check: 5 Essential Car Service Records You Should Never Ignore

Example: Car Service Log Format

Here’s a simple way to maintain your own service log : 

Date	Mileage	Service Done	Workshop Name	Remarks
05/04/2023	20,000	Oil change, filter replace	ABC Motors	Next due at 25,000
12/08/2023	25,200	Brake pads replaced	XYZ Garage	Front pads only

How to Check Car Service History Online using CarInfo

CarInfo makes it easy to verify and track your service history. Here’s how: 

1. Go to CarInfo → Go to the Check Vehicle History page or open the CarInfo application. 

2. Enter Vehicle Number → Enter your vehicle’s registration number.

3. View Service Records → You will be able to view all available service history associated with your vehicle.

4. Check Information → This information includes repairs, inspections, mileage, and maintenance performed at authorized centers. 

5. Save & Share → You can download or take a screenshot of the history to share with a potential buyer.

Extra Tips to Add Value Alongside Service History

When you are getting ready to sell your car, having a clean service record is great, but if you combine it with some extras, you have much more weight behind your deal.

• Keep a receipt record for any RTO challan cleared up (buyers do not want to know about fines pending on their purchase).
• Hold onto your pollution check (PUC) certificate.
• Keep your insurance policy up to date.
• Provide receipts to show recent major replacements (tyres, battery).

Conclusion

Keeping a car service history is one of the easiest ways to keep your vehicle’s value intact. It proves your vehicle has been well maintained, it builds immediate trust with potential buyers, and you may even obtain a higher selling price in less time.

So, when you next have your vehicle serviced, remember to get your receipt, update your service history, and use your vehicle’s story to your advantage.