Sometimes back, a colleague came to work devastated because they could not find their logbook. However, most of us couldn’t figure out the actual need for a logbook and decided to calm her down with “meaningless” reasons to show her that a logbook was not that important as long as she still had her car.
When I look back today, I’m so grateful to Ben, a colleague, who interrupted that conversation with information that made our entire office team think differently about a car logbook. The information below entails all you need to know about a car logbook. I chose to share it because it really did work for me and hopeful that it will work for you too.
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What is a car logbook?
A car logbook is a document that is filled by both the car seller and buyer at the time of purchase to act as proof of ownership. It is very crucial that its details are changed every time that the car ownership changes through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority where vehicle ownership records are updated and stored.
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Why car logbook is important for a car owner
A car logbook is an essential document for every car owner. It proves that you are the rightful owner of the vehicle hence no one else can claim it from you. Again, when it is time to sell your car, a logbook helps ease the process. Your car’s mileage, as well as repairs that have been done so far, are provided in the car’s logbook. Such information makes it easier to convince a buyer of the car’s shape and also sell it at a preferably higher price unlike when the logbook is missing.
A logbook comes with service guidelines from the manufacturer that plays a huge role in determining the life of a car. A well-maintained car will always last longer than one which was not correctly looked after especially during its first 2-3 years of service.
What is v5c?
A V5C just like a logbook is a paper document containing information about the owner of a specific vehicle. Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) uses this document for national records regarding ownership change, a change on owners name or address, or a change in the condition of a vehicle, i.e., if it has undergone modification, writing-off or scrapping.
Difference between v5c and log book
There is no difference between these two. One means the other hence they really are the same thing, playing the same role in vehicle ownership. As stated above, they are filled by both the buyer and seller of the vehicle to confirm a change of ownership within which the new owner applies for an updated copy through the DVLA.
Can I buy a car with no log book?
Yes you can; but at your own risk. Without a logbook, there will be no proof of ownership of the car hence the seller can turn around and claim it back. What if the seller has placed it as a mortgage for a loan and given the bank the logbook? Your guess is right; they will come for the car since its owner is still whoever sold it to you as per DVLA.
To be safe, NEVER buy a car that has no logbook.
I’ve lost my log book. What do I do?
Don’t worry. You can still get another one. All you need is apply for another one by post or phone. However, it will cut you down a few bucks. You are required to fill a V62 form then send it by post or by phone if the details of the car have not changed.
Bottom Line
At the end of Ben’s talk, we all couldn’t help but thank him for enlightening us that much. Our discussion concluded with each of us promising to find their car logbook and keep it safe. Those who had earlier lost their logbooks spend their entire break time applying for a replacement. It is with no doubt that the safety of your car greatly relies on its car logbook. Always keep it safe and up to date.
