How to Check Maintenance Records for Used Cars?
3 Answers
Query after-sales services at the corresponding brand's 4S store or check through various mobile apps. Here are the relevant details: 4S Store Services: Clients for repairs or consultations, business inquiries and diagnostics, business negotiations, repair estimates, repair services, commitment to repair quality and delivery time, handling delivery procedures, processing workshop entry for repair vehicles, handling additional repair items, checking work progress, product delivery, rescue and repair services, customer file management, customer follow-up and complaint handling, follow-up services, appointment repair services, filling and submitting business statistical reports. Car Checking Apps: Autohome, Pacific Auto, ZOL, etc.
Last time I bought a used car, I spent a lot of time dealing with maintenance records. First, don't just listen to the seller—you need to see the actual documents. Back then, I checked online using the vehicle identification number (VIN). Websites like Carfax are popular abroad, while in China, you can use platforms like Che300 or the 4S shop system by entering the license plate or VIN to check maintenance history and accident repair details. If the seller provides the original maintenance manual, that's even more reliable—it has timestamps and 4S shop stamps. Don't be lazy; verify the years and mileage one by one. If the records are incomplete, I took the car directly to a friend's repair shop to scan the ECU with professional equipment, which can uncover hidden issues. By following these steps, the car I bought ran smoothly for two years without major problems, saving me a lot of hassle. Remember, don’t just go for the cheapest option—good maintenance records can save you from wasting money.
I'm quite fascinated by cars, and checking maintenance records is a technical task. The most effective method is to search online using the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), such as entering the digits on government platforms or professional apps, which can immediately display information like insurance claims and service history. Sometimes, you also need to refer to the maintenance manual, which details each service, such as oil changes or part repairs. If there are no online records, visiting an authorized repair shop for an inspection of the body structure and computer modules can reveal past issues. This process might take some time, but it's worth it—knowing the history ensures peace of mind while driving. I recommend not just skimming the surface; a thorough inspection is key to avoiding pitfalls.
