What Should a Vehicle Technical File Include?
2 Answers
Vehicle technical file refers to the historical records that document the basic information, main performance, operational usage, major component replacements, inspection and maintenance records, as well as accident handling and other related vehicle data throughout the entire lifecycle of a vehicle, from its purchase as a new car to its scrapping. The detailed contents recorded in the vehicle technical file are as follows: Basic information and main performance of the vehicle: Records the specifications, equipment, technical performance, modifications, and changes of major assemblies. Operational usage: Records the mileage, transportation turnover, fuel consumption, tire usage, and mechanical failures of the vehicle. Inspection and maintenance records: Documents the content, results, and timing of inspections, as well as the location and cause of identified faults or potential issues, solutions, historical maintenance records, and the technical condition of major assemblies. Accident handling: Mainly records the occurrence, causes, and resolution outcomes of mechanical failures or accidents involving the vehicle. The role of the vehicle technical file is to understand the vehicle's performance, technical condition, and changes, grasp the patterns of vehicle usage and maintenance, and provide a basis for vehicle maintenance, modification, and spare parts inventory. It also serves as a reference for evaluating the level of technical management and provides feedback to vehicle manufacturers to improve manufacturing quality. Therefore, it is an important foundational task in vehicle technical management. Specifically: It helps in mastering the changing patterns of vehicle performance and gaining the initiative in vehicle management, usage, upkeep, and repair. It provides reliable technical data and scientific basis for the planning of vehicle maintenance, repairs, and material procurement. It offers research and improvement materials for technical evaluations of vehicles, enhancements in vehicle structure and performance, and spare parts production. It provides analytical data for selecting vehicle models when expanding a company's fleet. It serves as a basis for evaluating the technical management practices at the grassroots level.
As an average car owner, I believe the vehicle technical documentation should cover all critical details. Firstly, it must include vehicle identification information such as VIN number, make and model, and production year. Secondly, maintenance records are essential - documenting each service's date, work performed (like oil changes or tire replacements), preferably with invoices or repair certificates. Accident history is crucial too; any collisions should be recorded with repair details and replaced components. Technical specifications like engine model, horsepower, transmission type, plus safety reports including brake test results and airbag status should be included. Usage history like odometer readings and annual inspection records shouldn't be omitted either. I think clear, comprehensive documentation helps maintain the car's value, facilitates troubleshooting, and prevents sudden breakdowns. Finally, adding modification history or special features like aftermarket audio or navigation systems makes it more practical.
