Service History Fundamentals
The basics of service history, explained
What a service history actually is, where the data comes from, what counts as a full service history (FSH) and why it matters for value, warranty and resale.
Articles in Service History Fundamentals
12 articles
No Stamps in Your Service Book? Invoices Count as Proof
Whether garage invoices and receipts count as service history without stamps, what buyers and dealers actually accept as proof, and how to organise loose invoices into one record.
27 July 2026 路 12 min read
Car Service Records: What to Keep, How Long and Where
Which car maintenance documents are worth keeping, how long to keep each one, and an honest comparison of paper folders, spreadsheets, tracker apps and digital service books.
27 July 2026 路 11 min read
OEM Service Records Explained: What They Are and Why They Vary (2026)
What OEM (manufacturer) service records are, how each maker's system works, why coverage varies between brands, and what it means when no records appear on your report.
26 June 2026 路 10 min read
Main Dealer vs Independent Garage: Which Is Better for Servicing Your Car?
An honest comparison of main dealer and independent garage servicing. Costs, warranty rules, when each is the right choice, and how to find a good independent.
13 May 2026 路 17 min read
Service History Check Success Rates: What We've Learned From Thousands of Vehicles
We've checked thousands of vehicles for manufacturer service history. Here's what we found: 7 in 10 had digital service records on file. Learn which vehicles are most likely to have records and what affects your chances.
4 April 2026 路 4 min read
Service Stamp Meaning: What a Service Stamp Proves (and What It Doesn't)
Learn what a service stamp means, how digital service stamps work, how to verify them, and why stamps alone aren't a full service history.
7 February 2026 路 3 min read
The Complete Guide to Vehicle Service History in 2024
Everything you need to know about vehicle service history: what it is, why it matters, digital vs paper records, how to check it, and its impact on car value. The ultimate resource for buyers, sellers, and car owners.
27 December 2025 路 17 min read
Digital Service History Explained: The Future of Car Maintenance Records
Discover what digital service history is, how it works, and why it's replacing traditional paper service books. Complete guide to electronic car service records in 2024.
24 December 2025 路 7 min read
What is Full Service History (FSH)? Complete Guide to FMSH vs FSH
FSH meaning in cars: understand Full Service History (FSH) vs Full Manufacturer Service History (FMSH). Learn what qualifies as FSH, how it affects car value, and why it matters.
22 December 2025 路 10 min read
5 Reasons Why Digital Service Books Are Better Than Paper (For Buyers & Sellers)
Discover the advantages of digital service books over traditional paper records. Learn how electronic service history benefits car buyers, sellers, and owners in 2024.
11 December 2025 路 11 min read
Car Service Intervals Explained: When Should You Service Your Vehicle?
Complete guide to car service intervals. Learn about interim, annual, and major services, manufacturer schedules, long-life servicing, and how to maintain optimal service intervals.
5 December 2025 路 7 min read
What is Vehicle Service History and Why Does It Matter?
Understanding the importance of vehicle service history when buying or selling a car. Learn what to look for and why it's crucial for vehicle value.
1 December 2025 路 2 min read
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