Recording Preventive Maintenance. As required by § 43.9, preventive maintenance must be recorded by entering the following information into the maintenance record of the item worked on: (1) “A description (or reference to data acceptable to the Administrator) of the work performed” (§ 43.9(a)(1)).

Yes, under FAA regulations (14 CFR Part 43 and 91), you are strictly required to record all preventive maintenance in the aircraft's maintenance records. This applies even if the work is performed by the owner-pilot rather than a certified A&P mechanic. Each entry must include a clear description of the work performed, the date of completion, the name of the person who performed the work, and their signature, certificate number, and certificate type. For example, if you change the oil or replace a landing light bulb, you must document it to ensure the aircraft remains "airworthy." These records provide a continuous mechanical history of the aircraft and are legal evidence that required tasks were performed correctly. Failing to record preventive maintenance can result in an aircraft being grounded during an inspection or can significantly complicate the sale of the aircraft, as future owners and the FAA rely on these logs to verify compliance with all safety standards.