Mercedes-Benz is abandoning the traditional service record booklet in favour of centrally-held digital records.

It follows similar moves introduced by Mazda when it launched the Mazda5 two years ago.

Mercedes claims the Digital Service Booklet (DSB) brings more convenience and efficiency, as service data is electronically recorded by the franchised workshop to build a complete digital history.

Non-franchised workshops will be given access to DSB under Block Exemption regulations, although they will not be allowed to access customer records and service history.

The DSB programme starts with new vehicle sales of E-Class and CLS-Class, and will be progressively rolled out to all new models.

“No longer will private customers need to ensure the service booklet is present when visiting the retailer, while for rental and leasing companies it means one less administrative headache,” said a spokesman.