Book a Car Diagnostic in Reading

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 Reading

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Reading

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.

A customer tending to her garage with an RAC Mobile Mechanic in the background

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.

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

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 Reading

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

NK MOT LTD

4.6/5

At NK MOT Ltd we have experience in providing a comprehensive range of vehicle repairs and maintenance services as well as vehicle MOT tests to customers within the Reading area. We can undertake all classes of MOT’s, which include a free re-rest within the permitted time of 10 working days. Customer service is of paramount importance to us and we will only commence work once we have your consent. All work is undertaken using only OE parts and spares, at competitive prices. We have a team of 4 fully IMI qualified and experienced mechanics and engineers who can undertake all forms of mechanical repairs, maintenance work, servicing and MOT’s through to more complex engine rebuilds. All supplied and fitted parts come with a manufacturers guarantee, and we shall provide a labour guarantee to match this for your peace of mind. FREE vehicle collection and delivery is available for all local customers by appointment.

16 To 20 Longbarn Lane, Reading, RG27SZ

IN'n'OUT Autocentres Reading

4.4/5

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!!

Unit 6 Trade City, Sentinel End, Reading, RG20BF

WAC Automotive Engineers, Bosch Car Service

4.0/5

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

The Servicing Master Centre LTD

3.8/5

If you’re looking for a reliable Car Garage In Reading look no further, we are The Servicing Masters. We specialize in Servicing, Wheel alignment and tracking, Air Con recharge, MOT, Tyre, Body Work, Clutch and Fly Wheel, Water Pump,Timing Belt and all kinds of mechanical repair. No Fix, No Fee 12 Months Warranty Expert Repair Staff Spare Parts Supplies Free Collection & Delivery The Servicing Master is all about quality. From our technicians through to the parts and fluids we use. Whether you need us for a scheduled service or a repair you can leave your vehicle in our capable hands with confidence. Dec House, 145 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG1 8JF Mon – Sat: 10:00 – 20:00

181 Cardiff Road, Reading, RG18HD

MD Tyres & Auto Services

3.8/5

MD Tyres is a fully authorised, independent MOT station serving Reading and surrounding areas for both class 4 and class 7 vehicles. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, you can rely on professional testing set out by our fully qualified MOT testers. With state of the art equipment, we can work on all makes and models of cars, vans and light commercial vehicles. At MD Tyres in Reading we provide high-quality tyres at unbeatable prices! Some of the tyre brands include Bridgestone, Continental, Davanti, Dunlop, Goodyear, Michelin, Pirelli along with a broad range of quality mid-range and economy tyres.

47 Loverock Road, Reading, RG301DZ

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.