AutoAndTech|Why a Full Service History is Essential with a Car|The modern car might comprise of up to 30,000 separate components, any of which could malfunction at any time, and during the lifetime of a car, it does require servicing at regular intervals that are measured by mileage, rather than time. The average car requires maintenance every 5-8,000km, during which the engine oil must be replaced, along with the oil and air filters, plus other components that would be listed in the servicing schedule.
Full Service History
Known in the used car trade as FSH, the service history of the vehicle to be sold offers the potential buyer an insight into how the car has been treated by previous owners. A vehicle with a FSH is worth more than a car that does not have a complete record of all maintenance work, for obvious reasons, so when you are looking at car service in Canberra, make sure the vehicle has a complete service history.
The Owner’s Manual
While today’s vehicle manufacturers are trying to digitialise vehicle maintenance recording, we still can find all the details in the rear section of the owner’s manual, where there are specific pages for the service intervals, and the garage carries out a service, it will enter the details, along with stamping the page for authenticity. When you are looking at a car with a view to making a purchase, always ask to see the owner’s manual, which will contain all the details of the car’s service history.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
A car maker would typically issue a warranty that would last a few years, or when the car has reached a specific mileage, and in the event the car has not been serviced as recommended by the manufacturer, the supplier might inform you that the vehicle warranty is void. Of course, the vehicle warranty lasts only for a specific number of kilometres, or a period of time, after which, you are basically responsible for the cost of any repairs.
Buying from a Reputable Car Dealer
If you are looking to upgrade your car, rather than taking a risk and buying a car from a private seller, you should contact a manufacturer-approved car dealership, where you will find top quality second-hand cars that are all under warranty. Most of these cars were purchased as new from the same dealer, and after a year or two, the owner decides to purchase another new car and the dealer is happy to take their current vehicle, which they know intimately, as a form of part payment.
The car would first be thoroughly inspected and any issues resolved, before it is cleaned and detailed, then it is put on the forecourt for sale to the general public. As the car has always been serviced by the dealer, they are prepared to issue a warranty, which gives the buyer real peace of mind, knowing that if anything major goes wrong, the warranty will cover it.
You are advised to stay away from used cars that do not have FSH, as you can never be sure if the car has been well looked after, and buying from a reputable dealer is the safest option.
