Collect the records available for the car
Ask the seller for the service book, owner’s handbook, available invoices and any inspection reports. Check whether the records identify the actual car by VIN or registration and include dates and kilometre readings.
A seller may have paper records, digital records or both. Ask them to obtain any available manufacturer or workshop history through the appropriate process. Access may require permission or proof of ownership; do not assume another person’s customer details can be released to you.
Make a short service timeline
Use columns for date, kilometres, provider, work recorded and evidence. Separate a routine service entry from a receipt for a specific repair. Compare the timeline with the maintenance schedule in the vehicle’s handbook and ask a mechanic about gaps.
For example, “service completed” and an invoice identifying a particular scheduled job answer different questions. If a major maintenance item matters to your decision, ask for evidence that addresses that item.
Follow up on missing or inconsistent entries
Ask the seller to explain a missing period, a change of identifier or an unusual mileage sequence. Where appropriate, ask them to obtain clarification from the workshop that issued the record using independently checked contact details.
An incomplete book does not prove that no maintenance occurred. It means the available evidence is incomplete. Record that uncertainty and include it in the brief for an independent inspection.
Understand what online reports can supply
RegoLens does not provide a full service-history database as part of its A$10 vehicle report. A PPSR search addresses registered security interests and available source findings; it does not validate every workshop visit.
Use this document review alongside an odometer comparison, recall check and inspection. NSW Government buying guidance recommends asking about the vehicle’s service history and recent inspection reports.
Sources and further reading
- NSW Government: service books and repair records
- NSW Government: questions and documents for a private purchase
Official guidance can change. Check the linked source for current details.