Should You Buy a Used Car Without Service Records

Is Service History Important?

If you have bought or sold a pre-owned car, you will know that buyers will want to see a service history or record as it provides some reassurance that the car is regularly serviced and maintained well, has had any repairs, and that the mileage shown is precise. Well-preserved service records often give buyers confidence that the car has been taken care of. Also, a car with a service history is more appealing and more valuable than one without it.

Is It Illegal to Sell a Car Without Service History?

It is not illegal to sell a car without a service history, but the seller may not get as much value for the sale compared to a seller who has the records.

If the car was an older one, selling it wouldn’t be much of a hassle without the service records. If it was a newer car, then service history would be more relevant to the buyers, especially in terms of warranties.

Is It a Bad Sign If a Car Has No Service History?

While a service record is necessary, you could purchase a car without one for a lower value. Therefore, a car with no service record need not be a problem as long as you get the physical car checked and examined by a proper mechanic for faults and repairs.

Many cars now have their service history digitally stored, so you might not receive a physical copy of the service record as you would with older model cars.

How to Check If Your Car’s Service History is Legitimate?

If you are buying a pre-owned car, you must be cautious that the service record has not been forged. This is a crime that has increased over recent years, as many sellers know that they can get more value for a car with a complete maintenance history.

You must know that for a car that is three years or younger, the service records should be held on a central database with the manufacturer, so call them to double-check that the service record is right.

If the car is older, you can always check that the repair centers listed in the stamp book are legitimate and that they do exist by calling the garages and enquiring if they completed the work listed in the record.

What to Do If You Bought a Car with No Service History?

If you purchased a car without knowing about its service history, then you may be able to track some of it to increase the value of your car.

If you want to find out details for your car, the first step is to contact the manufacturer and ask them about your car using the VIN. You can find this on your car’s door frame, engine compartment, or windshield, depending on your car model/brand.

They should be able to give you information on which dealer originally supplied the car when it was new.

Final Word

Service records are a way of telling you whether the used car you are planning to buy is worth the value or not. You do not want to invest in a car that has been repaired or serviced after a major accident. You also don’t want to buy a car that breaks down now and then. It is therefore important to know the right condition of the vehicle before making the decision.