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

Auto-Line MOT Centre

5.0/5

Here at Auto-Line M O T we offer high quality servicing and mechanical repairs. We carry out any repairs to industry standard service manual labor times. We also offer a free collection and delivery service and vehicle movement services, which are subject to availability. We are a small close-knit team of two technicians with over 30 years of experience between us. We have a real passion for what we do and carry out every single job, no matter how big or small, to the highest standards. Owner Oliver is fully licensed, insured and qualified in the following; DVSA registered Authorised Examiner and mot tester Automotive Refrigerant Handling (EC Level 3 Award (IMI Awards Ltd) Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Competence, Level 3 Diploma (IMI Awards Ltd) Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles, Level 2 Diploma (IMI Awards Ltd). Numerous product courses with Ford Numerous product course with jaguar land rover Numerous product courses with BMW Luke is a landrover master technician Very experienced with all makes and models as comes from and aftermarket background. Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Competence, Level 3 Diploma (IMI Awards Ltd)

Unit 17 British Waterways Yard, Shardlow, Derby, DE722HL

JOHN HARRISON LOWDHAM LIMITED, Bosch Car Service

4.6/5

Welcome to John Harrison (Lowdham) Ltd - we're a family run business having been established at the same location since 1946, later being the first established Peugeot dealership in the country in 1975. We pride ourselves in customer care, with many awards over the years gained through offering the very best in customer service experiences from buying a vehicle in the sales department through to our aftersales. We thrive on repeat business, with industry leading preparation standards alongside our non-pressurised sales environment enjoyed by our customers over the last 70 years. We provide the complete range of new Peugeot's from cars through to vans, alongside a superb range of 70+ multi franchise used vehicles. Our team will take the stress out of buying a new car. All you have to do is choose the one that best suits you. Then, the team will help you select the best finance package, organise the admin and get any maintenance taken care of. If you have any questions along the way, we will be more than happy to help. We also extensive aftersales facilities with 'All Makes' Servicing, MOT's, Four Wheel Alignment and more alongside our in-house bodyshop offering minor repairs through to full body resprays.

Southwell Road, Lowdham, Nottingham, NG147DS

Wimbledon Car Care

4.7/5

.Here at Wimbledon Car Care our number one priority to offer you the best possible service, repair and maintenance of their vehicle. Investing in the latest equipment ensuring that we’re always one step ahead. We specialise in all makes and models of vehicles, from brand new through to classic, for servicing, mechanical repairs, minor bodywork, MOT and Fleet Car support, enabling us to be one the best independent motor vehicle repair centres in and around Wimbledon and South West London.

163-167 Haydons Road, Wimbledon, SW198TB

PGS Garage Services

4.4/5

PGS Garage provides MOT testing, car servicing and vehicle repairs for customers in Portchester and surrounding areas. Catering to all types of vehicles and specialising in all makes and models of vehicle, we provide top-quality car services at great prices. Customers of PGS Garage will get the best of both worlds with the experience of a long-established business and the top-of-the-range facilities from a brand new purpose-built facility which includes all the modern technology you would expect for a top spec garage. PGS Garage has been established for more than 40 years in Purbrook and surrounding areas but has recently relocated to brand new premises in Portchester, providing state-of-the-art equipment and an extra bay to enable even more of our customers to benefit from the services.

1A Hamilton Road, Castle Trading Estate, Portchester, PO6 4QE

GJB Autos

4.2/5

Welcome to GJB Autos, we are a garage conveniently located on Littlestone Road New Romney. We serve the local community of the Romney Marsh and surrounding areas. We are proud to have been established since 1975, in North Street New Romney and moving to our current premises in Littlestone Road in 2015. GJB Autos have built a great reputation providing a professional and friendly service to all our customers. It’s important to regularly maintain and check your car, not only for your safety and the safety of drivers around you but it will also help to sell your car in the future with a comprehensive service history. GJB Autos offer a comprehensive range of services at our service center including engine diagnostics, servicing, brakes, tyres, air conditioning, ECU remapping and much more. With many years experience in the industry, we can carry out servicing on all makes and models of vehicle. GJB Autos is a VOSA approved MOT testing centre for class 1,2, and 4 and a registered member of the GoodGarageScheme.com RMI, Autofirst Network, RAC Approved/Accredited, we guarantee quality and efficient work at reasonable prices every time.

8 Littlestone Road, New Romney, Romney Marsh, TN288PL

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.