Dubai Used Car Guide: How to Check Service History Like a Pro

How to Check a Used Car’s Service History in Dubai: 2025 Buyer’s Guide

In Dubai’s fast-moving car market, a shiny paint job and spotless interior can sometimes hide a costly past. Many first-time buyers have learned the hard way that looks aren’t everything — what really matters is what’s in the car’s service history.

Think of a service history like a vehicle’s personal diary. It tells you how well it’s been cared for, when it’s been serviced, and whether it’s had any major repairs. Whether you’re buying a rugged Toyota Land Cruiser or a sleek Mercedes-Benz S-Class, knowing a car’s past will save you money — and headaches — in the long run.

Here’s how to check a used car’s service history in Dubai like a pro.

1. Ask for the Full Service Record

A trustworthy seller won’t hesitate to share a complete service log — including invoices or a stamped booklet. In Dubai, many authorized dealers store these records digitally. If the seller claims they’ve lost them, you can often request a copy through the official service center.
Example: One buyer I know walked away from a “too good to be true” Lexus deal after discovering the service book was missing three years of entries — a red flag that likely saved him thousands in repairs.

2. Use the RTA Vehicle Status Certificate

The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) offers a Vehicle Status Certificate. While it doesn’t detail every oil change, it will reveal accidents, ownership history, and mileage records — all of which help you spot inconsistencies. It’s quick to get online or at an RTA customer happiness center.

3. Contact the Manufacturer’s Service Network

For cars regularly serviced at authorized workshops, the manufacturer’s UAE network can confirm the maintenance history using the vehicle’s VIN. This is especially valuable for premium brands like BMW, Lexus, and Mercedes-Benz, where service intervals and parts replacement are meticulously logged.

4. Watch Out for “Gaps” in the History

If the records skip large time periods or kilometers, ask why. In the UAE’s hot climate, missing a few oil changes can cause severe engine wear. Always press for an explanation — vague answers are a warning sign.

5. Verify Mileage Consistency

Cross-check mileage from service invoices, RTA inspections, and the car’s odometer. If numbers don’t add up, it could be odometer tampering — and in Dubai’s competitive market, it happens more often than many buyers realize.

6. Always Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even with a perfect service record, arrange a pre-purchase inspection at a trusted Dubai workshop. Mechanics can spot signs of accident repairs, flood damage, or neglected maintenance that don’t appear in the paperwork.

Final Tip for Dubai Car Buyers

A solid service history not only protects you from unexpected bills but also helps preserve your car’s resale value — crucial in Dubai’s active second-hand market. And remember: it’s always better to walk away from a suspicious deal than to inherit someone else’s problems.

For those searching for quality used cars in Dubai with verified service records, Auto Trader UAE offers a trusted platform with a wide selection of vehicles ready for the road or desert. Visit www.autotraders.ae to find your next car today.