Vehicle Service History Check

One of the essentials you need to look for when buying a used car is its vehicle service history. A car service history provides an indication on whether the car has been well maintained or not and provides peace of mind that the seller will also have other records of its maintenance and repairs. Sadly, fake service histories are still relatively common, so knowing how to check service history is a key skill when buying a vehicle. 

vehicle service history check

Where to check car service history

A car will ideally be issued with a service book when you buy it which will show the garage performing each service and a log of the mileage, completed works and an authentication stamp. Some drivers may also supply receipts or invoices for each job and the costs incurred, all of which forms the car service history. Reg Car Check is unable to provide the service history of a car in our car checks. 

Always carry out a car service check

A full service history is essential when buying a car – you want to be sure that a vehicle has been cared for properly and that the seller isn’t attempting to hide any mechanical issues that could result in costly or dangerous problems later on.

The importance of a thorough service history check, helping you make smarter purchasing decisions with vehicles

We provide a thorough verified service to help you access a vehicle’s full history in a simple and accessible report. With Free Car Checkr, you’ll have instant access to the data that really matters, that’s affordable and easy to understand. Here’s why thousands of people in the UK choose our vehicle history checks. 

  • A complete service history checker – Our full history checks provide all the information you’ll need to make an informed decision when purchasing a vehicle
  • Peace of mind, every time – Our checks are backed by a £30,000 data guarantee, for complete peace of mind that you’ll be covered in the event of any inaccuracies
  • Reliable support – Our team of customer service professionals are always on hand to provide support and answer any queries you may have regarding your vehicle
  • Sourced by DVLA – We use data sourced from DVLA for all our checks, for 100% accuracy for your vehicle’s full service history.
 

Car Service Check FAQ

When was my car last serviced?

Knowing how to check service history for a vehicle is the key to checking how well maintained a vehicle is, and what condition your car is in. There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to checking when a car was last serviced, but you can request a copy of a vehicle’s Digital Service History from the manufacturer, but this can vary considerably. It’s a legal requirement for trade sellers to advertise the most basic service history to a buyer.

You can also request data from Free Car Checkr – we can supply you with records of previous owners and ensure that there are no outstanding insurance claims or insurance write-offs, along with a range of other details.

How do I check the service history?

The best way to find out if a service history is authentic is to use common sense, since there’s no set formula for checking whether the details have been forged. Here are a few tips:
Ask to see the service book – if the vehicle has been manufactured in the last 5 years, there may not be a physical Service History book, but you can check the digital log.

Read the service book carefully – Note down at least two of the garages listed and if the seller doesn’t mind, you can ask to take a photo of the service logs so you can refer to the information later and check the addresses are genuine.

Check the mileage – Most cars have a service interval of between 10,000 and 15,000 miles between services.

Google the garages listed – Search for the contact details of at least a few of the mechanics or garages listed and get in touch. While they won’t be able to give you details of the services, they will be able to confirm if a service was actually carried out.

Isit cheaper to buy a car without service history?

A vehicle without a full service history will typically be sold for around 23% less than the equivalent with a full service history. If you’re serious about buying a vehicle with only a partial service history, it’s worth taking this into account and be prepared to haggle for the final price you pay. Ultimately, you’re taking a bigger risk if you buy a car without a service history so bear this in mind for signing on for a vehicle.

What is the difference between a full service history and a main dealer service history?

The difference between these types of service history is minimal, it’s more about personal preference as to which one is provided or requested. Research shows that providing there is a full service history for the vehicle which is genuine, this is the best way to buy or sell a vehicle privately. Buyers should be cautious about buying a car sold by a ‘competent mechanic’ who can’t provide a service history as this is often a ruse and isn’t backed by any qualifications or certifications.