Why Do you Need a Maintenance Book for Your Car?
Creating a simple maintenance log could help you keep track of your car's repairs, mileage, oil changes, or any other auto maintenance needed. When was the last time you changed your car's oil? How about your last tire rotation? If you're starting to scratch your head, maybe it's time to sit down and create a service log for your car.
Why Keep a Maintenance Log?
A car maintenance log can come in handy in several ways:
- It will save you from having to remember your last visit to the workshop and what was done on your car;
- Problems are sometimes easier to diagnose when you can view the car's history;
- If you decide to sell your car, you will be able to show interested buyers that you have taken good care of it.
In short, a car maintenance log is an easy way to stay organized and adhere to necessary auto maintenance.
Choose a Notebook or Other Medium:
Before creating your notebook, you need to decide where to keep it. It is best to keep it in the car. So be sure to choose a notebook that can be easily stowed in the glove box or under the front seat.
What Should You Watch Out For?
Once you have chosen a notebook, filing cabinet, or other medium, you need to determine what information to write down. Oil changes? Tire rotations? How often to refill your gas tank? Mileage of the car? This is your journal; it's up to you to choose what you think will be useful.
Not sure what to write down? On the Internet, there are many free templates that can give you ideas.
Warning: Keep It Simple!
You may find it important at this stage to take note of all the details about your car. But if you make a notebook that's too complex, you probably won't fill it out. Simplify categories and entries: Oil Change, May 25, XYZ Car Repair. A detailed maintenance log can also remind you if you were satisfied or not with the work done. It might also be helpful to leave some room for short remarks.
Page Design:
Define columns and rows for the different categories of information. Or designate different pages for different topics. Write directly in your notebook. Or create your notebook on your computer, print it out, and add the slips to your binder.
Start Your Monitoring:
Once your notebook is finished, put it in your car. Consider keeping your notebook in a large bag that can be closed to protect it from dust and liquid. The advantage of storing your notebook in a bag: if you keep receipts or detailed maintenance invoices, you can also store them in the bag.
Make Sure Your Car is Properly Maintained:
If your car was last serviced long enough, don't wait until your engine goes up in smoke to visit your mechanic. Immediately find a local auto repair shop and don't forget to jot down your appointment in your notebook.
