What is a log book?

Question

I bought my first car last year. It is now overdue for a service (thank you for the answers to that question!) and I have looked through the pouch of information in the glove box to find a log book, but can't find one. The car was a nearly new demo model Clio, bought from a Renault garage. I have instructions and warranty information, but can't find a log book. I seem to remember from my mum's car that a log book is a small booklet with mileages and small boxes for the stamp from the servicing garage. Is it normal for a car to come without one? Can I get a replacement (where and will it be very expensive?) Also, will future buyers know that the book is a replacement, and will this detract from its value?

Thanks for your help. I definitely have the registration details for the vehicle, so it sounds like I'm missing the Service History Book.

Answer 1

1st of all what you call the log book is actually the registration document. What you need is the service book which records when the car is serviced. You should have been given that when you got your car. I would speak to the Renault garage where you bought it. They may still have it or will replace it, probably free of charge. It is true that a car has more value if it has a full service history.

Answer 2

You should be able to use just about anything to keep track of service. Also, some logs are kept in the back of the auto user manual. It does not have to be a seperate booklet. If it turns out that you do not have one, then get something printed off from the dealer and just keep track of everything yourself. As long as you have history, that will be fine. It shouldn't take away from value. It just shows you're responsible.

Answer 3

Here in the US a log book is for commercial transportation. It is the DOT's way of making sure you get enough rest forthe amount of driving. I am sure you probably don't mean that...more like a maintance record book . It is not nessessary to have one with a new or used purchase. In fact I have NEVER bought a car with one. Unless you bought it from a private owner the record keeping is strictly voluntary. Chances are, it has a "car fact guide", thru the internet ,when bought from a dealer. It helps with the "Lemon Law".

Answer 4

Yes, it's the V5 which is now just a sheet of paper with the car and ownership details. The term 'log book' comes from when it used to be booklet-sized.

Don't worry about not having a vehicle service book - just make sure you keep all your garage receipts.

Answer 5

Yes, the Service record, which they should have given you when you bought it. The Dealer should be able to supply you with a new one and, these days, can look up your car's service history (ahem, if it has one!), so you can keep a print of that with your new book.

Answer 6

Copy Log Books from DVLA? I think they cost about £20.00. You should have had a 'New Owners Supplement' from the garage where you bought it. Then the DVLA send you the new Log Book. Get in touch with the garage and ask them what they have done with their 'half' of the paper.

Answer 7

It is your proof of ownership,
You would have got it through the post a few weeks after buying the car,
It is also known as a V5,
You would have needed it to tax the vehicle,
It has the cars details, chassis and engine numbers, engine size and colour on it.
It also has a section for if you sell it to transfer to the new owner

Answer 8

a log bk is the old
reg.document

Answer 9

where you keep all the service history and stuff

Answer 10

i fink its mr.hankeys foto album!