How Long Do Dealerships Keep Service Records?

One common question that car owners have is: How long do dealerships keep service records? 

The Importance of Service Records

Service records play a vital role in the life of a automobile. Here are a few reasons why they are essential:

Maintenance History: Service records provide a detailed account of all the maintenance tasks performed on your vehicle, including oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections. 

Warranty Claims: If your vehicle is still under warranty, having accurate service records can be crucial when it comes to making warranty claims. Dealerships and manufacturers may require proof that you have followed the recommended maintenance schedule to honor warranty repairs and replacements.

Resale Value: When you decide to sell your vehicle, having a complete service history can significantly enhance its resale value. Prospective buyers are more likely to trust a car with a well-documented maintenance record. It provides reassurance about its condition and upkeep.

How Long Do Dealerships Keep Service Records?

The duration for which dealerships keep service records can vary. However, there are a few common practices followed by most dealerships:

Warranty Period: Dealerships typically retain service records for the duration of the warranty period. This is done to ensure that they can honor warranty claims. The warranty period is usually around 3-5 years, but it can vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific warranty terms.

Legal Requirements: In some jurisdictions, dealerships are legally required to keep service records for a certain period. This is to protect both the dealership and the consumer in case of any disputes or legal issues. The specific duration can vary from country to country and even from state to state within a country. It’s essential to check the local regulations to determine the exact timeframe.

Best Practices: Even after the warranty period and legal requirements have expired, many dealerships choose to retain service records for an extended period. It enables them to view a vehicle’s complete service history and deliver correct information to the owner. Some dealerships may keep records for 7-10 years or even longer.

Accessing Service Records

How long do dealerships keep service records? Now that you know how long dealerships typically keep service records let’s discuss how you can access them:

Contact the Dealership: The first step is to reach out to the dealership where you purchased the vehicle or where you have been getting it serviced. Contact their service department and inquire about accessing your service records. 

Provide Necessary Information: To access your service records, the dealership may ask for specific details such as your vehicle identification number (VIN), the date of service, or the name of the service advisor. Having this information readily available will help expedite the process.

Digital Records: With advancements in technology, many dealerships now maintain digital records of service history. In such cases, they may provide you with access to an online portal or send you the records via email. This makes it convenient for you to access and review your service history at any time.

Third-Party Services: If you are unable to access your service records directly from the dealership, there are third-party services available that can help you retrieve them. 

How to Stop Mileage Recording Process for Testing?

Even though mileage alone does not provide a complete picture of a car’s condition, it still gives us crucial details.  Other factors, such as maintenance history, driving conditions, and overall car care, influence a car’s performance and reliability. Regular maintenance and proper care are crucial for maximizing the benefits of good mileage and ensuring the longevity of your vehicle. 

The ideal solution is a mileage blocker. Instead of erasing already-travelled miles, it just stops adding more distance. This unique device was designed by the manufacturers for testing so that customers could quickly confirm the operation of their automobiles. This module offers undetectable performance.  Some people want to make up for prior errors, while others want to sell their cars for more money. Always keep in mind that everyone should use the gadget ethically and lawfully. You can check Super Kilometer Filter website and chose the device.

Last Thoughts

How long do dealerships keep service records? Service records are an essential aspect of vehicle ownership. Dealerships typically keep service records for the duration of the warranty period and may retain them for a longer period as a best practice. You can easily access your service records and ensure that you have the documentation you need for future reference.