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

Bismillah Garage Services Ltd

4.2/5

Bismillah Garage Services is a family business, well established and respected MOT & car service garage in Luton also supplying replacement automotive parts such as exhausts, brakes spark plugs, oil filters and tyres. We undertake car servicing and repairs that including computer diagnostics, brakes, clutches etc. Regular car servicing can extend the life of a vehicle considerably and can save money. We focus on providing an exceptional garage service with competitive pricing. We have been serving customers in the Luton for 15 years. We have an up-to-date, fully equipped test centre, with all the facilities to service and repair your vehicles. We have built a solid reputation in Luton for delivering high quality garage services tailor made to meet the needs of our clients. Much of our business comes from word of mouth and satisfied repeat customers.

2A Tudor Road, Luton, LU3 1RN

IN'n'OUT Autocentres - Erith

4.4/5

Professional MOT and Servicing while you shop. Simply drop off your vehicle and we’ll complete your service, MOT test or repair while you shop or relax in the café at Morrisons. With over 30 Autocentres across the UK and a 5-Star Trustpilot rating, IN‘n’OUT Autocentres is the big local garage you can trust, making caring for your car even easier

Morrisons Car Park, James Wyatt Way, Erith, DA82AH

Ignition Auto's LTD

4.7/5

Here at Ignition Auto’s Ltd, our highly skilled team are committed to delivering outstanding mechanical repairs and services at affordable prices our workshop is. TRADING STANDARDS APPROVED. RAC ACCREDITED. AA APPROVED. IMI APPROVED. Based in Middlewich, Cheshire (JUST OFF M6 J18). we provide a range of services for cars, vans, HGV (including horseboxes), motorcycle and quads) all welcome in our workshops. Our technicians go through continuing extensive training which allows them to work efficiently so your car receives the best care and you receive fantastic customer service. It is essential that you have a trusty technician who can give you honest advice when it comes to your vehicle maintenance, and that’s what our team is here to do. We understand how important it is that you are kept in the loop and discuss any further work required with you and the options that are available. MOT re-tests are free of charge and we also include a free headlight alignment. With a wealth of knowledge the technicians here at Ignition Auto’s Ltd can carry out a variety of services but always apply the same level of expertise. Our OE quality parts are sourced from reputable suppliers and come with a standard manufacturer warranty. You can rest assured that your vehicle will leave our garage as good as new. We also offer all our products and services with a payment option of 6 months interest free payments going forward to cover your bill this takes a few minutes to do and can be done over the phone before work has taken place.

Ignition Autos Ltd, Brooks Lane Industrial Estate, Middlewich, CW100JH

The Motor Company, Bosch Car Service.

4.1/5

The Motor company, located in Tauton, is an independent garage that has been servicing and repairing all makes of car and light commercials since 1985 using factory trained technicians with state of the art tooling; this allows us to offer fleet companies and private individuals a one stop shop centred around excellent service with affordable pricing. During 2009 we relocated to their new site having outgrown the original premises (all be it a stones throw away), enabling them to expand their services into new and used car sales, bodyshop smart repairs, paint-less dent removal, interior trim repair on velour, leather, plastics, and fabric as well as a valet department and a bespoke parts department to name but a few. The new fully automated M.O.T bay and service centre has been designed to cater for all manufactures cars and light commercials all are serviced to the manufacturers standards; some of our partners include major fleet companies such as Wessex Water, British Gas, the Highways Agency and the One link platform. All these groups recognise the need for quality repairs, reduced vehicle down time with guaranteed workmanship at a reasonable cost (cheapest is not always the best). The Motor company have won the coveted Fleet Garage of the year several times; a credit to their staff and all concerned.

Cook Way, Bindon Road, Taunton, TA2 6BJ

Courtwood Car Services

4.2/5

Based in Uxbridge and established since 1978, Courtwoods are a family run company with a reputation for being reliable, friendly and professional. We are committed to excellent customer care and we continually work towards providing the best service for both you and your Courtwood Car Services is your local car clinic serving motorists in Uxbridge, Hillingdon, Middlesex and West London.We specialise in MoTs, servicing, all types of mechanical and electrical repairs, air-conditioning servicing and recharges on any make or model of car for private individuals or local Uxbridge based businesses.

Penfield Estate, 17 Lancaster Road, Uxbridge, UB8 1AP

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.