Staying on top of routine auto maintenance can mean the difference between a car that runs to see the 100,000-plus mile mark or one that dies out well before its time. If you would like to see your vehicle go the distance, a maintenance log book can help you make certain it gets all the babying it deserves.

While most new cars do have log books for maintenance and the suggested schedule included in the owner’s manual, used buys may not have these things included. To create your own log book all you need to do is look up the manufacturer recommendations for your make, model and year vehicle. Once you have this, print it out and put it into a pocket notebook. You can also take the recommendations and create a chart to put into a notebook. Use the pockets to hold service receipts and other documents.

To keep up with the maintenance that is due on your car, use an ordinary wall calendar or appointment book to remind of important dates for service. If you need to, guesstimate the dates on which vehicle mileage will reach recommended service points. Once you do take your car in or perform the work yourself, check off the servicing in your log book.

Routine maintenance can keep your car running great thousands of miles down the road. To keep up with it better, make sure to have a log book on hand to remind yourself what has been done, what needs to be done and what might be on the horizon. This can also help you with budgeting, as well.