Auto Log Book Pays

Pilots, fleet operators, the military and virtually anyone to whom vehicle performance and dependability are essential do logging, defined as the act of entering information in a logbook.

Maintaining a logbook is a good idea for private owners too, says Jim Fazio, who suggests that setting up and maintaining an auto "diary" is a simple procedure. It's a matter of keeping a pencil and note pad handy to record anything of importance about the maintenance and operation of the car or truck.

Essentially there are five types of entries:

  1. Gasoline fill-ups and mileage;
  2. Addition of various fluids such as engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid and at what mileage;
  3. Maintenance services performed: what, when, by whom and how much it cost;
  4. Services performed other than routine maintenance, i.e. body repairs or paint, accessories installed, etc.;
  5. Insurance and/or registration information.

Most businessmen, whose vehicle expenses are tax deductible, know the importance of maintaining good records. For them and for others there are these additional considerations, says Jim Fazio:

Keeping a running record of gas purchases vs. distance driven will show a decrease in gas mileage, warning of a malfunction or need for tune-up.

A logbook will make you aware of abnormal oil or fluid consumption, which could be the tip-off to a leak or other potential problem.

It also serves as a reminder that the vehicle is overdue for an oil and filter change, transmission service or other important maintenance.

When it's time to sell or trade, this kind of documentation can make a substantial difference in the vehicle's sale ability. A used car buyer likes to know what maintenance has been done and when.

In case of mechanical trouble, especially with an older vehicle, it may be useful to report to a mechanic exactly what work has been done.