The fact that benefits of logbook car servicing are known to all. But the reason logbook servicing is so essential is due to the processes that are included in it. You may not weigh that much importance on logbook servicing as you do not know the details. Many people just assume that the usual car service is similar to logbook servicing. If you think that logbook servicing is all about having your car shiny and bright after the service, you got it all wrong. Do not confuse car wash with logbook servicing. Your car can be filthy from the outside, but if it is not maintained from the inside, your car may eventually stop running altogether.
You may be aware that there are two types of car logbook servicing. Every time you go to a mechanic to get your car serviced, the first question you are asked is what type of a service you want. The options available are:
- Interim Car Logbook Service
- Full Car Logbook Service
Interim Car Logbook Service
An interim logbook servicing is conducted every six months and that takes only a few hours. It includes a general check of the clutch and the gearbox operation as mentioned by the manufacturer and the checking of all the alignments and compared with those mentioned in the logbook. Also, it includes replacement of the oil filter if needed, a check for leaks and reviewing of the vehicle history and asking the customer about any defects and repair requirements and working accordingly.
Full Car Logbook Service
While in a full logbook servicing, a thorough check of every part of the car and its machinery is done. Even the smallest of the flaws is detected and repaired. Ideally, every car needs a full logbook servicing after every 12000 miles of driving. Failing that, your car could face grave consequences. Here is a detailed list of what is done to your car during a full-fledged logbook servicing:
- A minute check for any fluid leaks from the car.
- Check the condition of the auxiliary drive belts and ensure proper tension.
- Check and top up the coolants and increase the antifreeze strength.
- Replace the timing belt based on the mileage of the car and check the condition of the alternator drive belt.
- Check and replace the air filters if needed.
- Change the oil filter after checking its condition.
- Check the viscosity of the engine oil and change if necessary.
- Check and repair the operation of the clutch and gearbox according to the requirement.
- Replace the gearbox and clutch fluids if required.
- Check and fix the drive shaft joints and gaiters to ensure safety and plug leaks if any.
- Ensure the level of transaxle oil according to manufacturer specifications.
- Ensure that all the airbags and door locks are functional.
- Check the operation of interior and exterior lights, horns and all the dashboard warning lights.
- Check the heater plug indicator operation and condition of high-tension leads.
- Lubricate the battery terminals and check the charging system.
- Ensure the proper working of power steering reservoir, shock absorbers, and steering and suspension components. Thoroughly check them for signs of wear and corrosion.
- Thoroughly check the brake operation including the checking of the hydraulic system, pipes and hoses for any leaks, chafing or corrosion. All the signs related to brake repairs are observed.
- Adjust and lubricate the handbrake linkages and check the level of brake fluid.
- Inspect all of the wheels, including the spare, for proper balance and excessive noise or wear and tear, as well as the wheel bearings.
- Check that the tyres have the proper air pressure and that the tread depths are in good condition.
- Check for any irregularities in the tyres or any signs of wear and tear and ensure that the tyres are fit for providing enough traction on the road while driving.
Why It’s Important To Keep Car Logbook Records?
The first reason is that it is a legal need to do so while your vehicle is still under warranty. This is to guarantee that the automobile is serviced correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. There have been cases where the automobile has broken down because it was not serviced according to the manufacturer’s standards. The car manufacturer requires you to have logbook servicing to avoid this.The second advantage is that it maintains track of all auto maintenance, which aids in getting a fair bargain on the car when you sell it.All mechanics encourage car owners to adhere to the logbook service schedule and standards, yet this is something that car owners rarely do.
After all these checks, you know your car is safe for driving and you can prevent any sudden breakdowns as every time the car is serviced according to the logbook guidelines, all parts of the machinery are inspected to make sure none are on the verge of breaking down.
Author Bio:
Hi, I’m Eleena Wills. Being a writer and blogger, I strive to provide informative and valuable articles to people. With quality, constructive, and well-researched articles, one can make informed choices. bI cover a wide range of topics, from home improvement to hair styling and automotive. You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter & LinkedIn