Service book entry

[Silverbluemachine]

As a retired engineer I am keen to do as much service work as possible to my 20 yr old SL500 that has a good main dealer and indie history. Question is whether to make an entry into the service book that I have done the service work or could it damage my chances of selling it on in 3-5 yrs? Would a log of parts receipts be of any value as not really traceable to the vehicle?

 

[Blobcat]

I'd just keep paper records and receipts of what you bought for the service

 

[A.J.]

If I was looking for an MB at saw handwritten entries in the service book without a Dealer stamp I would just walk away. However you would have to take into consideration that the car is 20 years old and overall condition would maybe take precedence

 

[Droverunner]

>>>If I was looking for an MB at saw handwritten entries in the service book without a Dealer stamp I would just walk away....

For a 20yr old vehicle... really?? Your choice obviously but if you were looking at a car of mine it would be a mistake. I fill in the services I have carried out and this is backed by a 30 point checklist of the work completed with notes of the exact tasks undertaken. Both the records and quality of work, particularly with regard to diligence, are probably better than most main dealers in respect of an older vehicle.

Thankfully most buyers are more pragmatic. I have just sold a 10yr old MB with my entries in the service book without a concern from the private buyer... likewise on the previous car a dealer happily purchasing a 12yr old vehicle with my records in the book... prior to that a private buyer of a superb condition 5-Series was happy the book detailed 5yrs of my services.

 

[A.J.]

>>>If I was looking for an MB at saw handwritten entries in the service book without a Dealer stamp I would just walk away....

For a 20yr old vehicle...

I was generalising. Obviously a 20 year old vehicle is a slightly different issue and I did add a caveat saying just that.

As far as walking away I most certainly would on a lot younger car

 

[Srdl]

I think most people buying a 20 year old classic will be more concerned that servicing has been done properly and thoroughly so a book full of receipts and detailed list of work done should be ideal.

 

[Wearsafoxhat]

I have a spreadsheet that is backed up by the receipts with date and mileage. I think it may be helpful in the event that I sell either car, but that will be upto the buyer.
I know what has and hasn’t been carried out over the past few years. My local dealership is or has been “shoddy” imho.


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[Blobcat]

I have a spreadsheet that is backed up by the receipts with date and mileage. I think it may be helpful in the event that I sell either car, but that will be upto the buyer.
I know what has and hasn’t been carried out over the past few years. My local dealership is or has been “shoddy” imho.


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A lot can be said by talking to the owner when buying privately - you can usually tell if they’re an enthusiast and if it’s been looked after