Car Diagnostics | Book a Car Diagnostic for your BMW

Trustpilot rating for all RAC Mobile Mechanics.

Why choose the RAC for a car diagnostic?

With RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage. They can do a vehicle diagnostic check on your driveway, so you don't even need to leave the house.

When it comes to diagnosing issues with your vehicle, our friendly expert mechanics are here to help. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to accurately identify any problems, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. The price includes the diagnostic service – no hidden costs. Just friendly, honest experts.

RAC Mobile Mechanics can carry out car diagnostics on popular BMW models such as 1 Series, 3 Series, X1, X3, and 2 Series. This service is completed at your home or workplace, following BMW maintenance guidance and using OEM‑equivalent parts. You get clear pricing, real‑time updates and a convenient, no‑hassle experience.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick for your BMW

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic for your BMW

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At the RAC, we’ve got over 125 years’ experience in offering complete peace of mind® to our members. We’re best known for our breakdown service. And now – our new RAC Mobile Mechanics are here to help make every day motoring easier. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic running a vehicle diagnostic check

Book a car diagnostic

Our mobile mechanics will spend up to 30 minutes checking your car for faults and talk you through any repairs you might need and give you a report for your records. There are various ways we can check for faults, which could include plugging in to check your car’s onboard engine management system.

OEM quality parts

We use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standard parts, which means every new part will be the same standard and same quality as the original part it replaced.

Mechanics you can trust

Our mobile mechanics are friendly, honest, and backed by the RAC.

Book a repair

It’s easy to book a car repair online. We bring the garage to you with RAC Mobile Mechanics, or find a trusted local garage. Common repair jobs include:

Clutch Replacement

We diagnose and repair clutch issues – whether your clutch is heavy or slipping, or you’re having trouble changing gears.

Alternator repair

We check and correct alternator faults to keep your charging system running smoothly.

Oil change

Oil is vital to a healthy engine, so it’s important to change it regularly.

Brake pads & Discs

If your brakes are making noise or you’re noticing reduced stopping power, it’s likely time to replace your brake pads or discs.

And it’s not just car diagnostics that we do for your BMW

Mobile mechanics bring the garage to you, saving you the hassle of getting your car to a garage. If you need a service or repair, they’ll come to you at your home or work.

A close up of an RAC mobile mechanic looking under the hood of a car

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

S T Garage

4.7/5

We are the best in the area when it comes to professional full DPF cleaning. We can also provide regular maintenance, diagnostics and minor or major repairs.

6, Stonehill, Huntingdon, PE296ED

Farnsfield Auto Centre

4.3/5

Farnsfield Auto Centre is a family owned garage servicing all your vehicle needs in Nottingham, Farnsfield and Newark areas. We are a full serviced garage located in Southwell Road in Farnsfield. Servicing cars and vans in the local area has provided us with a 2nd to none customer service and reputation. Our reputation is built on quality and efficiency when it comes to automotive servicing sector. Our technicians are all fully qualified and highly trained, and are always available to answer your questions around car problems or parts in the Nottingham, Farnsfield and Newark areas.

Southwell Road, Farnsfield, Newark, NG228EB

WWAC Automotive Engineers, Bosch Car Service

4.1/5

Based in the Reading area and comprising of Full Service, Repair and MOT garage and We offer Full Dealer Level Diagnostics, and Vehicle Body and Accident repair centre. We are just on the edge of Reading town centre in Suttons Business Park. The oldest company in the group is Car Gears, established in 1982 that specialise in manual and automatic Gearbox repairs and reconditioning. We also have a Auto Parts Trade Counter which operates at the Reading Counter supplying car and vehicle parts, oils Paint, Consumables and accessories to both the trade and public throughout Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Surrey, Hampshire, Middlesex, Sussex, Wiltshire, and London. We Offer free collection and delivery to all our clients upto 50 mile radius from our Bosch Reading

49, Sutton Business Park, Suttons Park Avenue, Reading, RG61AZ

Unity Tyres & AutoCare

4.8/5

Not Just Tyres: We’re your comprehensive automotive solution, offering far more than our name suggests. Beyond our extensive tyre selection, we provide complete vehicle servicing to keep your car running smoothly, convenient MOT testing to ensure roadworthiness, and attractive service deals that combine multiple maintenance needs at competitive prices. Our skilled technicians also specialise in brake system maintenance and repairs, alongside general automotive repairs to address any issues your vehicle may encounter.

Greengates Compound, Cross Street, Accrington, BB51HS

SKS Auto Services Ltd

4.8/5

SKS Auto Services, owned by good friends and business partners Bradley Dawson and Nathan Hinks was established in 2005 and has a reputation for professionalism, technical expertise and quality workmanship.SKS are committed to honesty and always charge a fair price for the work we do. We only use parts equivalent in quality to the original part unless otherwise agreed and as a business we have also invested heavily in the latest technology and diagnostic equipment, meaning whatever the problem you have with your vehicle we will be able to resolve it. Our experienced technicians are always on hand to offer friendly advice and support.

14 Royce Road, Peterborough, PE1 5YB

Frequently asked questions on car diagnostics

How much does it cost to diagnose a car problem?

The cost you pay can vary depending on the type of car and how complicated the diagnostic test. Check with your mechanic for a quote.

Is a car diagnostic test worth it?

Yes, a diagnostic test may save you a lot of money. It finds issues early before they become costly repairs. It can also keep your vehicle running efficiently and safely

Can I do a car diagnostic myself?

While you can buy a diagnostic tool, interpreting the results needs expertise. It’s best if you to have a professional mechanic perform the test.

How long does a car diagnostic test take?

Diagnostic tests take from 30 minutes to a few hours. This depends on what issues are being looked at.

What are common car diagnostic codes?

Common diagnostic trouble codes include:

P0300: Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
P0420: Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold
P0171: System Too Lean (Bank 1)

These are general examples, so your car may have different codes. Always check with a mechanic so you get an accurate diagnosis.

Is a car diagnostic test necessary for a service?

Yes, they are. Regular diagnostics can help keep your car in good health. It makes sure that underlying issues are addressed quickly, so you can drive with peace of mind on the road.

Again, keep in mind that mechanics might have their own checklists. Chat with your mechanic to be sure that they address any specific issues you have.