Why a Used Car’s Service History Is Important
When buying a used car, you’ll want to review its service records to gain insight into the vehicle’s maintenance history and overall condition. One of the factors to consider when purchasing a pre-owned car is how well it was taken care of by its previous owner (or owners). Accessing a vehicle’s service records gives you insight into things like oil change frequency, tire rotation and battery replacement.
For example, if the car is overdue for an oil change, you’ll have to get one right away or perhaps pass on the offer. A vehicle that’s been neglected may have hidden damage or experience reduced longevity.
Additionally, service records can indicate whether the vehicle has undergone any major repairs or component replacements, allowing you to assess the potential reliability and future maintenance needs of the car.
At Easterns Automotive, we understand the importance of having access to service records when buying a used car. That’s why we strive to provide our customers with complete and accurate records, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your purchase. Our knowledgeable staff can assist you in reviewing and understanding the service history of any vehicle you’re interested in, ensuring that you make an informed decision based on the available information.
What Can You Learn from Vehicle Service Records?
Maintenance History
Vehicle service records provide a documented history of the car, truck or SUV's maintenance and repairs. They can include information about routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations and more. Reviewing these records can give you an idea of how well the previous owner(s) cared for the vehicle.
Regular Servicing
Look for evidence of regular servicing at recommended intervals, such as major services at specific mileage milestones. Regular maintenance indicates that the previous owner(s) followed the manufacturer's guidelines for keeping the car in good condition.
Repairs and Replacements
Service records may include information about repairs or replacements performed on the vehicle. This can include components like the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes or other major systems. Pay attention to any significant repairs or parts replacements, as they can give you insight into potential future maintenance needs.
Recall Information
Service records may also indicate whether any recalls were addressed and resolved by the previous owner(s). Recalls are issued by manufacturers to address safety or performance issues in specific vehicle models. Ensuring that any necessary recall notices have been heeded and all part replacements or repairs have been performed is crucial for your safety and the vehicle's optimal functioning.
Consistency and Accuracy
Verify the service records are consistent and accurate. Check for regular and consistent maintenance intervals, as well as reputable service providers or authorized dealerships listed in the records. Inconsistencies or gaps in the records could be red flags and may indicate a lack of proper maintenance or potential issues.
DIY Maintenance
In some cases, owners may perform DIY maintenance on their vehicles. While this is not necessarily a concern, it's important to ensure that any DIY work was done correctly and that the proper documentation is available.
Service Warranty
If the vehicle is still covered by a service warranty, check the records to see if all maintenance and repairs were performed by authorized service centers. This is important for preserving the warranty coverage and ensuring that the work was done by qualified professionals.
Vehicle Value
A well-documented service history can add value to a used car. It demonstrates that the vehicle has been properly maintained, which can increase its reliability and longevity. On the other hand, a lack of service records or incomplete documentation may raise concerns and impact the vehicle's value.
Purchasing Your Pre-Owned Car, SUV or Truck with Confidence
At Easterns Automotive, we understand the importance of providing our customers with complete transparency and peace of mind when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle. That’s why each and every vehicle in our inventory comes with detailed service records.
Before a vehicle even enters one of our dealership lots, it undergoes a comprehensive multi-point inspection conducted by our trained technicians. This inspection covers various aspects of the vehicle, including its mechanical components, electrical systems, interior and exterior. This check ensures the vehicle meets our high standards for quality, safety and reliability.
To further guarantee customer satisfaction, your vehicle purchase comes with a return policy. If for any reason you’re not completely satisfied with your used car, truck or SUV, you have the option to return it within seven days and receive a full refund, no questions asked.
