How to Keep Track of Car Maintenance
Written by Muneeb Rana · Last updated 21 October 2026
Quick answer: To keep track of car maintenance, record every service with the date, odometer, work done, parts, shop and cost, keep the receipt, and set a reminder for the next item. A paper log, a spreadsheet or an app all work. An app like CarO is easiest because it's on your phone at the shop and handles reminders.
TL;DR
- Record date, odometer, work, parts, shop, cost.
- Set the next reminder immediately after each service.
- Keep receipts, or photos of them.
Knowing how to keep track of car maintenance saves money: you won't pay twice for the same job, miss a warranty-critical service, or forget when the timing belt was done. Here's a two-minute routine and the options for storing it.
What to record every time
- Date and odometer reading.
- What was done (oil and filter, rotation, brake pads front, etc.).
- Parts and fluids (oil grade, filter brand).
- Who did it: shop name or DIY.
- Cost.
- When the next one is due.
Keep the receipt or a photo of it.
Paper, spreadsheet or app
| Option | Good for | Downsides |
|---|---|---|
| Paper log | Simple, no tech | Easy to lose, no reminders |
| Spreadsheet | Searchable, free | Not handy at the shop, manual reminders |
| App | Always with you, reminders, costs | Need to choose a trustworthy app |
Our free vehicle maintenance log covers paper and spreadsheet. For apps, see best car maintenance apps.
Reminders that work
Set the next reminder while you're still at the counter: oil change, rotation, inspection, registration and insurance. Use the service reminder tool for calendar alerts, or app reminders tied to the car's history. The maintenance schedule tool tells you what to remind yourself about.
Tracking several cars
Families and small businesses need records per car and sometimes per driver. CarO supports multiple vehicles and drivers, with a car repair log and expense reports for each. For bigger fleets, see fleet maintenance apps.
Why it pays off
A full record supports warranty claims, helps diagnosis and raises resale value; see car service history.
Download CarO free on the App Store or Google Play. Free with ads; optional in-app purchases.
Sources
- AAA: Time-Stamped Car Maintenance Checklist: www.aaa.com (accessed 21 October 2026)
- GOV.UK: Check the MOT history of a vehicle: www.gov.uk (accessed 21 October 2026)
- CARFAX Support: What is CARFAX Car Care?: support.carfax.com (accessed 21 October 2026)
- FTC Consumer Advice: Auto Warranties and Auto Service Contracts: consumer.ftc.gov (accessed 21 October 2026)
Disclaimer: CarO and this website give general car-care information, not professional advice. Maintenance intervals and specifications vary by vehicle, so always follow your owner's manual and a qualified mechanic. Mileage and cost figures are estimates; check local tax rules before using any log for deductions.
FAQ
Is there an app for car maintenance?
Yes. Apps like CarO, Drivvo, Fuelly and CARFAX Car Care let you log services and set reminders. CarO also tracks fuel, expenses and multiple cars.
What's the best way to keep car maintenance records?
Whatever you'll actually use. An app is easiest for most people because it's always on your phone and handles reminders.
What information should I record?
Date, odometer, work done, parts, shop and cost, plus when the next service is due.
How do I find my car's past service history?
Ask previous owners and dealers, check stamps in the service book, and in the UK use the GOV.UK MOT history service. Vehicle history reports may show some services.
Should I keep receipts after logging?
Yes. Keep the receipt or a clear photo; it's the proof behind the log.
Related guides
Track this in CarO
CarO is a free car maintenance tracker app for iPhone and Android that keeps a full service history, reminds you about oil changes and inspections by mileage or date, and logs fuel fill-ups with MPG, odometer readings and car expenses for every vehicle you own. Logs are stored in the cloud and can be exported as CSV.
