Minimum record
The most useful fields are date, mileage, work type, short description, labor and parts cost, workshop name, and invoice or receipt.
- Avoid a vague “service” entry. Name the oil, filters, and checks that were actually completed.
- Add the part number to the description or keep it visible on the invoice.
Records that often help
Track oil and filters, brakes, tires, battery, timing work, fluids, larger repairs, diagnostics, and recommendations.
- For tires, record season, size, and storage place.
- For timing-belt work and fluid changes, add the expected next date or mileage.
Keep records clean
Separate service records from reminders: a reminder says what needs doing; history confirms what was done.
- Close the reminder and create the actual history entry after the work is complete.
- Keep older costs if you want a full ownership-cost picture.