Mechanical
Logbook service history
Stamped manufacturer service records — the single strongest signal of mechanical condition.
A car with full dealer logbook history is worth 10–20% more than the same car with 'service history' that's just receipts in a folder. We cross-check logbook stamps against odometer readings, service-due intervals and major-service items (timing belt, brake fluid, transmission fluid). Gaps over 12 months or missing major services are negotiation levers.
Related terms
Timing belt
A rubber belt synchronising crankshaft and camshafts — must be replaced on schedule or the engine destroys itself.
Odometer wind-back
Tampering with the odometer to show fewer kilometres than the vehicle has actually done.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter)
A soot trap in modern diesel exhausts that requires periodic high-speed driving to self-clean.
EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
An emissions valve that routes exhaust back into the intake — a notorious carbon-clog point on diesels.
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