Book a Car Diagnostic in Brighton

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.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick in Brighton

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Brighton

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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.

Average cost of a vehicle diagnostic by car make^

The RAC charges a flat rate for the cost of a car diagnostic but prices may change due to inflation. According to RAC data, the average cost of a car diagnostic is £87.

Make	Average price
Ford	£105
Vauxhall	£105
Volkswagen	£105
Peugeot	£104
Mercedes-Benz	£104
Nissan	£106
BMW	£107
Audi	£106
Renault	£104
Citroen	£104

^Average price quoted for RAC Mobile Mechanics from 01/01/25 to 31/03/25.

And it’s not just car diagnostics that we do in Brighton

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

WHEELBASE

5.0/5

Wheelbase are an established local independent garage and are proud to be members of Autofirst Network – a nationwide network of independent garages operating to the Network’s 6 core values of Capability, Consistency, Care, Clarity, Cost Effectiveness and Customer Focus. For your added peace of mind we are members of the Motor Ombudsman service which is approved by The Trading Standards Institute. In short, we are a local garage you can trust offering you the support and service guarantees of a national network, giving you complete peace of mind. We cover Basingstoke and surrounding areas and offer courtesy cars as well as a free collection and delivery service.

24B Victoria Way, Burgess Hill, RH15 9NF

Bayley's vehicle locksmiths ltd

4.9/5

Bayleys Vehicle Locksmiths are an experienced, reliable and skilled local business based in Hove, East Sussex. We cover the whole of Sussex, Surrey and Kent and offer a 24 hour emergency response. VEHICLE LOCKSMITHS – VEHICLE REPAIR – MOT AND SERVICING WE OFFER COMPLETE KEY CUTTING AND CODING FOR MOST VEHICLES, INCLUDING HGVS & LGVS. HAVE YOU LOST YOUR HGV KEY OR NEED A SPARE ONE? WE COVER THE WHOLE OF SUSSEX, SURREY, AND KENT AND OFFER A 24-HOUR EMERGENCY RESPONSE. WE PROVIDE A FULL CODING SERVICE– ECU CODING – BSI UNITS AND CIM UNITS. ALL DONE AT OUR WORKSHOP OR WE CAN COME TO YOU. We offer complete Key cutting and coding for most vehicles, including HGVs & LGVs. Our team of experts can get your car fixed up in no time, so you can get back to your busy schedule. We also offer MOT and servicing services, so if your vehicle is due for its annual check-up, give us a call! Our expert technicians are only a phone call away when you need them!

Unit 1 D, Cambridge Grove, Hove, BN33ED

Ron Young Motors Ltd

3.8/5

Established in 1981, Ron Young Motors Ltd is a long running independent garage located in Peacehaven. Comprised of a tight-knit group of 6 passionate mechanics, with 130 years’ worth of experience racked up, we are ready to tackle any issue you bring to us. We offer a flexible service, with warranties offered on labour and parts. In addition to this we can provide collection and delivery for your vehicle (up to 3 miles), or a courtesy car if that is necessary. If you have an issue with your vehicle, please don't hesitate to give us a call, we're always happy to help.

Units E4 And E5 Hoyle Rd, Peacehaven, BN108LW

Newhaven Auto Centre Ltd

3.0/5

If you’re looking for a trustworthy Automobile Repair Shop, look no further than Newhaven Auto Centre. We’ve been servicing the Newhaven area since 2015 and pride ourselves on our transparency, professionalism and attention to detail. Newhaven Auto Centre treats each client with attentiveness and care, providing comprehensive service for you and your car. We save you valuable time and money by running a thorough examination to locate the source of the problem. It's our responsibility to update and advise you on the process beforehand and to make sure that the work we do meets your standards and needs

Unit 3, Robinson Road, Newhaven, BN99BL

KIS Autocentres Ltd

Here at KIS Autocentres our quality of engineering expertise and customer service is “second to none”. To tell the truth, we are proud of the high standards that we achieve at KIS Autocentres. In other words, we take pride in knowing our customers have confidence in our garage. When it comes to your prestige car, we know it needs some love and care and because of this, our quality never fails. We are audited by, and accredited to the Trading Standards Institute (TSI) to guarantee that we maintain the high standards. You can rely on us for fast, expert and affordable vehicle servicing and repair work. For everything your car needs. Our contactless concept explained: On the day of your booking, you will receive a locker code via text shortly after 6:45. You will need to find our locker system located directly outside our units, for a quick and easy drop off. Use the 6 digit code sent to you via text or the QR code using the link, place your keys in the designated locker, close the locker door and leave your car with us. Please expect your vehicle to be with us for 4-6 hours. The sooner you drop off the better. We ask customers to drop off between 8-10. If you need an overnight locker to drop off a day in advance please call or email us so this can be set up. Please note there is limited parking on site therefore lockers will only be set up a day in advance. Once your vehicle has been seen, you will receive a link to view a breakdown of your vehicle healthcheck. Using this link you can accept or decline the recommended work, you can also use the chat service using this link to talk to a member of our office team. In regards to payment, this is done via bank transer or payment link. Payment is requested after the vehicle is complete. If you have any questions regarding our concept, please email [email protected].

Unit B8 - B11 Hollingbury Trading Estate, Crowhurst Road, Brighton, BN18AF

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.