How to Check Service History Before Buying a Used Car

Buying a used car can be a smart financial decision, especially when it comes to luxury cars that hold their value well. However, the key to making a safe purchase lies in one crucial factor: the service history. A car’s service records provide insights into how well the vehicle has been maintained, what repairs have been carried out, and whether it’s worth your investment.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about checking a used car’s service history before making a purchase.

Why Service History Matters When Buying a Used Car

The service history of a vehicle acts like its medical report. It tells you:

• Whether the car has been regularly maintained.

• If major repairs or part replacements have been done.

• Whether the car has had accidents or recurring issues.

• Proof that the car was serviced at authorized or reputable workshops.

A complete service history helps build trust and protects you from unexpected expenses after purchase. For luxury cars like Audi, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz, this is even more important, as maintenance costs can be significantly higher than standard cars.

Where to Find a Car’s Service History

When buying a pre-owned car, you should never rely on verbal assurances alone. Always request documentation. Here are the main sources of a car’s service records:

1. Service Booklet

Most cars come with a service booklet where each visit to an authorized service center is stamped and recorded. This booklet should include:

• Dates of service

• Mileage at the time of service

• Details of the maintenance work done

If a seller provides a stamped service booklet, it’s a strong indication of authenticity.

2. Authorized Dealership Records

Many luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi keep digital service records that can be accessed through their authorized dealerships. By visiting a dealership with the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), you can often request a copy of the service history.

3. Independent Workshops

If the car was serviced outside the dealership, ask the owner for invoices or bills from the workshop. Reliable independent workshops also maintain records and can verify service details.

4. Online Vehicle History Reports

In India, you can also use platforms like:

• VAHAN Portal (to check registration details and ownership changes)

• Private vehicle history report providers that may include insurance claims and accident records

How to Verify the Service Records

Just having service papers isn’t enough—you need to verify them carefully.

1. Check Consistency of Dates and Mileage

• Look for regular intervals between services (usually every 10,000–15,000 km).

• If the mileage jumps unusually between two service records, it might indicate tampering.

2. Match Records with Invoices

Compare the service booklet stamps with actual invoices or receipts. Authentic invoices should include:

• Workshop details

• Job card number

• Car’s VIN and registration number

3. Cross-Check with the Dealership

For luxury cars, it’s best to call the brand’s authorized service center and confirm the service details. Dealerships can verify whether the car was genuinely serviced with them.

4. Look for Red Flags

Be cautious of:

• Missing records for long periods

• Frequent major repairs (engine, transmission)

• Repeated issues with the same component

These can signal poor maintenance or hidden problems.

The Risks of Buying a Car Without Service History

Skipping the service history check might save you time upfront but could lead to bigger problems later:

• Hidden Accidents: The car may have been involved in an accident, and repairs may not be disclosed.

• Higher Maintenance Costs: If past owners skipped regular servicing, you could end up paying for overdue repairs.

• Lower Resale Value: A car without a verifiable history is harder to resell.

• Warranty Issues: Some extended warranties are valid only if proper servicing has been carried out.

Expert Tips for Buyers

At Car Street India, with over 20 years of experience in dealing with pre-owned luxury cars, we’ve seen firsthand how service history can make or break a deal. Here are some professional tips:

• Always ask for complete records upfront—a hesitant seller could be hiding something.

• Cross-check the VIN on all documents to ensure they match the car.

• Don’t compromise on incomplete history, especially for high-end vehicles.

• Hire a professional inspection service if you are unsure about verifying the records yourself.

How Car Street India Ensures Transparency

As one of the leading second-hand luxury car dealers in Delhi, we at Car Street India make sure every car in our showroom has a verified service history. Our expert team inspects and certifies each vehicle so buyers can enjoy peace of mind.

When you buy from us, you get:

• Verified and documented service records

• Transparent ownership and accident history

• Certified luxury cars from brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and more

This commitment to trust and quality is what sets us apart from other dealers.

Conclusion

Checking a car’s service history before buying is not just a formality—it’s a safeguard against future risks. Whether you are buying a compact hatchback or a high-end luxury car, a verified service history ensures reliability, transparency, and peace of mind.

So, the next time you explore the market for a pre-owned luxury car in Delhi, remember: the service history is your best friend.

At Car Street India, we’re committed to helping you make the right choice by offering certified, well-documented, and premium used luxury cars. Visit our showroom and let your journey to luxury begin with confidence.