How to check your car’s service history

Why is service history important? 

A complete service history is more than just paperwork – it’s proof that a vehicle has been properly maintained.  

For resale, it gives buyers confidence that the car is reliable and reduces concerns about hidden issues and can boost its market value.  

For warranty, manufacturers and extended warranty providers typically require evidence of regular servicing to keep coverage valid. Missing records can lead to denied claims and unexpected repair costs. 

How to check car service history online 

Checking a car’s service history online is straightforward if you know where to look.  

Start by visiting the manufacturer’s official website or the approved dealer portal, as many brands allow owners to access digital service records using the car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or registration number.  

Some third-party services also compile maintenance data, but always verify their reliability.  

If the car has been serviced at independent garages, you may need to contact them directly for records.  

Having this information ensures you know the car’s maintenance background before buying or selling. 

Free UK options 

There are a number of free ways to check your car’s service history online, with the most popular being via the Government website. 

Enter the vehicle’s registration into the DVLA Vehicle Enquiry section of the site to see MOT status and history, tax status, first registered date, engine size, CO₂ emissions and current keeper info.  

This helps you confirm a car’s legal, tax and MOT background, offering a clear snapshot before proceeding with a purchase. 

Manufacturer portals 

Many car brands have digital service records linked to a vehicle’s VIN. Owners can view service logs that show dates, mileage, workshop notes and stamp history. 

Here are some brands that have an online manufacturer portal: 

• Audi 

• BMW 

• Ford 

• Honda 

• Hyundai 

• Kia 

• Land Rover 

• Lexus 

• Mercedes 

• MINI 

• Renault 

• Škoda 

• Tesla 

• Toyota 

• Vauxhall 

• VW 

What if my service records are missing? 

If you can’t find your car’s service history, start with a thorough search.  

Check the glovebox, car manual, boot and even under-floor storage compartments, as previous owners often leave paperwork there. 

Tips for reconstructing missing history 

• Contact the main dealer: they may have digital records if the car was serviced at an authorised centre 

• Reach out to previous garages: independent workshops often keep invoices or logs 

• Use old invoices or receipts: these can help rebuild a timeline of maintenance 

• Check online portals: many manufacturers offer digital service records linked to your VIN 

• Run an HPI check: this won’t show detailed service history, but it can confirm mileage consistency and flag any discrepancies, which is useful when piecing together a car’s past 

Car service book vs digital records 

Traditionally, all cars came with a physical service book that garages stamped after each maintenance visit.  

This booklet served as proof of regular servicing and was essential for resale and warranty claims.  

However, many manufacturers now use digital service records, stored online and linked to your car’s VIN. 

Physical service book 

• Easy to check at a glance 

• Can be lost or damaged 

• Requires manual updates by the garage 

Digital records 

• Secure and harder to misplace 

• Accessible through manufacturer portals 

• Automatically updated by authorised service centres 

• Often required for warranty paperwork 

Both formats are valid, but digital records are becoming the standard.  

If your car uses a digital system, make sure you have login details or request access from the dealer. 

Car service history check FAQs

Is it free to check your car’s service history? 

Not always. You can check MOT history and tax status for free via the DVLA, but full service records usually require access through the manufacturer’s portal or contacting garages, which may involve a fee. 

Can I check my service history without a logbook? 

Yes. Many manufacturers store digital records linked to your VIN. You can also contact previous garages or dealers to retrieve service details. 

What if I only have part service history? 

Partial history is better than none, but it may affect resale value and warranty coverage. Try to reconstruct missing records using invoices, dealer data and garage receipts. 

What counts as a full service history? 

A complete record of all scheduled services carried out at the correct intervals, ideally by authorised or reputable garages, with supporting stamps or digital entries. 

Can I use anything else instead of service history? 

Invoices, receipts and digital confirmations from garages can help prove maintenance. An HPI check can verify mileage and flag discrepancies, but it won’t replace a full service record. 

Check your car’s MOT history 

It’s quick and easy to check a car’s MOT history online in the UK.  

Simply visit the DVLA MOT history service website and enter the vehicle’s registration number.  

You’ll see past MOT results, dates, mileage readings and any advisory notes or failures.  

This is a free service and a great way to confirm the car’s roadworthiness and spot potential issues before buying or selling. 

Explore cinchServicing 

Even if you didn’t buy your car from cinch, you can still book in for a service or MOT at some of our stores. 

We have a few locations across the UK that offer servicing, and it’s easy to book in at the one nearest to you. 

Book in your car for a service or MOT at a fixed, fair price today – no hidden costs, no faff.