A complete service history can increase a car's resale value by up to 15 percent, since buyers pay more for the peace of mind of documented records.
Catching small issues early, like a worn belt, prevents catastrophic failures later, like a blown engine. Manufacturers can also deny warranty claims if an owner cannot prove required maintenance was performed on schedule, and regular tracking ensures safety-critical components like brakes and tires are inspected before they fail.
The most common tracking methods, from least to most structured, are dedicated apps, spreadsheets, physical logbooks, manufacturer portals, and a service receipts folder.