Book a Car Diagnostic in Bristol

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.

Around Bristol - from Clifton to Redland, Cotham and Bishopston - RAC Mobile Mechanics make it easy to get a diagnostic at home, with simple communication and friendly, expert service.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick in Bristol

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Bristol

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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 Bristol

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

T.D Garage Services

4.6/5

At TD Garage Services Ltd, we take care of all car makes and models. Whether you have a Ford, a Fiat, a Honda or a Hyundai, you can trust us to do a quality job. We are well known as a reliable local garage that provides a range of services including car repairs, servicing as well as MOT testing.

Unit 20, Windmill Farm Business Centre, Bristol, BS34DB

Monster Gear Garage

4.5/5

We are an independent 5 star garage with high experienced technicians that will take care of your vehicle, we cover a wide range of repairs like: MOT MOT repairs Servicing Air Con Regas Air Con Recharge Brakes Tyres Clutches Timing belt / chain replacements Diagnostics Engine repairs / replacement Drive in with no appointment. If you wish to wait while your car is being repaired we have a luxury waiting area with TV, Wi-Fi and free hot drinks. Our garage is a comfortable place for you and your vehicle.

Bridge Road Ind Est, Unit 16 - 18, Bristol, BS154TA

PC Motors.

4.4/5

Established in 1980, our main workshop is located in the Horfield area of Bristol. We have a thirty year heritage of being Volkswagen Audi Group (VAG) specialists. As such we are highly experienced in the repair, parts replacement and servicing of the entire range of VAG makes and models. Our many years of expertise, working on these respected brands, makes us the leading independent specialists for VAG vehicles in the Bristol area. We are a fully certified RAC Approved Garage Network member and can also carry out any warranty work. Our team of trained, qualified, reliable and trustworthy technicians and mechanics have secured solid customer and key stakeholder relationships over our 30 year heritage. Confidence in our service quality, advice integrity and competitive pricing has resulted in a significant number of our customers staying loyal to us for over ten years.

Unit 1, Elm Road, Horfield, Bristol, BS78RJ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Bristol

4.2/5

At IN’n’OUT Autocentres we offer fixed prices MOTs and Servicing for any make and model of car with no hidden extras. We are proud to be a ‘Which? Trusted Trader’ so we are really a garage you can trust. We also have a 5 Star Trustpilot reviews rating. We provide OEM parts and 12 months warranty on all parts and servicing. We only use premium Castrol oils in all servicing. Our services are all completed ‘while-u-wait’ so you have never have the inconvenience of losing your car for the day. You can watch your car as it is being worked on through the viewing window or sit back and relax in our clean and comfortable customer lounges with FREE Wi-Fi and coffee and read the latest magazines. Check out our latest reviews and BOOK NOW!!

Cribbs Causeway Industrial Estate, Lysander Rd, Westbury On Trym, Bristol, BS10 7UD

Brookfield Garage

If you are looking for great savings on quality used cars in the Bristol area , then you have reached the right place. Brookfield Garage Limited are a specialist used car dealer based in Horfield, Bristol . We are proud to offer you a first class customer service and very competitive pricing, so please browse our stock list. At Brookfield Garage Limited we stock a range of used cars to suit all budgets and lifestyles so we are sure to have the right car for you. If you are looking for a second hand car in Bristol , then don't delay, call us today to book a test drive. In order to offer cars to suit everyone we make sure that we update our stock list regularly. It is therefore always worth giving us a call, even if you don't see what you are looking for on our website. We realise that buying a car can be a daunting experience, but don't worry, we are well established within the Bristol area and come with a great reputation. Furthermore we offer excellent advice and experience on vehicles and vehicle maintenance. Our friendly staff will go the extra mile to guarantee that you receive the advice you need. This is the reason why many of our customers keep coming back to us. At Brookfield Garage Limited we don't just sell cars, we do everything possible to get you driving your perfect car. Why not come along to our used car dealership in Bristol? Pete and the team look forward to meeting you!

Ashley Down Rd, Bristol, BS79JS

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.