Work Logs
Work logs record completed work and turn day-to-day jobs into a usable service history.
What a work log includes
A strong work log includes the completed work, vehicle, customer, performed by, created by, date, charge, odometer, documents, and next service tracking where relevant.
Why it matters
The work log is the record your team returns to when a customer asks what was done, when a repeat issue appears, or when future service is due. It also helps separate who performed the work from who entered the record.
How to use work logs
Create a work log after the work is completed or when a job is ready to be recorded. Add a practical description, the staff member who performed the work, the staff member creating the record, and financial or odometer details if your process requires them.
Charges and odometer
Charges help the workshop understand job value and customer history. Odometer readings help future service decisions, especially for interval-based maintenance.
Next service tracking
If completed work creates a future action, record the next service detail and create a linked reminder. This keeps the history and future follow-up connected.
Best practices
- Record work promptly while details are fresh.
- Use plain descriptions that another mechanic can understand.
- Include odometer readings when available.
- Link documents such as invoices, inspection sheets, or photos.
- Keep performed by and created by accurate for accountability.
Common mistakes
- Using vague descriptions such as “fixed car”.
- Leaving next service information only in the description.
- Recording the wrong staff member because accounts are shared.