How to Keep a Car Maintenance Log

Buy a notebook to use as your car maintenance log. Get one with plenty of pages and a durable plastic cover. Use dividers to help you sort and categorize the different maintenance issues you'll encounter over the year.

Record your car's vital stats on the first page. Detail the make, model, vehicle identification number (VIN) and your insurance information. Have everything on hand that a mechanic might need to diagnose and correct a problem with your car.

Watch trends in your gas mileage. Keep detailed records of when you fill your tank and the amount of miles you travel before you need a refill. In many cases, decreased gas mileage can be a good indication of other emerging maintenance issues.

Keep track of your oil changes. Make notes about the type of oil used in your car, as well as the date of and mileage at your last oil change.

Track the wear on your car's tires. Over the years, the rubber tread on your tires will deteriorate, giving your vehicle much less traction on the road. Regularly test the depth of your tries and record the information in your log. Keep track of the kinds of tires you use, and make a schedule for their replacement.

Arrange to have your brake pads replaced regularly. Every time you apply the brakes, you ground the pads. Use your car maintenance log to keep track of when you need to have your brakes changed and the old brake dust cleaned away from your car's wheels.

Schedule times to replace your air and fuel line filters. These filters are cheap and easy to replace, but can sometimes slip the mind of even the most conscientious motorist. Ask your mechanic for advice on how frequently you should change your car's filters.

Write down accident reports to keep track of any wrecks you may have. Take notes on any major or minor repairs you car needs.

Save receipts for all the repairs your car needs.