A car's service history shows whether it has been looked after: oil changes, cambelt replacements and repairs on schedule. It is one of the best guides to a used car's condition, but it is not held in one central database, so you need to check it yourself. This guide explains how.
Does the DVLA hold service history?
No. The DVLA records the vehicle and its keeper, not its servicing, and no vehicle history check can show services done at a garage. What official records can show is the MOT history: the date and mileage of every MOT test since 2005, with failures and advisories. That is the best way to cross-check the service records you are given.
Where service history is kept
- Service book: the booklet in the glovebox, stamped and dated by the garage at each service, with the mileage.
- Digital service record: many manufacturers now record services electronically instead of stamping a book. A franchised dealer for the make may be able to look the record up from the VIN.
- Invoices: the most useful evidence, because they list the work done and the parts fitted, not just a stamp.
What "full service history" means
Full service history (FSH) means every service the manufacturer recommends has been done, on time or on mileage. Full dealer service history (FDSH) means a franchised dealer did them all. A partial history is not a deal-breaker on an older car, but it should be reflected in the price. Ask specifically about big jobs such as the cambelt, which the manufacturer schedules by age or mileage.
How to check the service history is genuine
- Compare the dates and mileages in the book or invoices with the MOT readings. Our free mileage history check lists every MOT reading in date order.
- Call a garage named in the book and ask whether they serviced a car with that registration on that date.
- Be wary of a book with every stamp in the same pen, or stamps from a garage that no longer exists and cannot be traced.
- If the mileage has gone backwards anywhere, read how to spot a clocked car.
What to check alongside the service history
Service history tells you about maintenance, not about finance, write-offs or theft. Run a free car check for the MOT and mileage records, and a full car history check for outstanding finance, insurance write-offs and stolen markers before you pay. Our list of questions to ask when buying a used car covers what to ask the seller about servicing.