Book a Car Diagnostic in Southampton

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 Southampton

We’ll come to you at home or work

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Southampton

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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 Southampton

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

Eco MOT Auto Centre

Eco MOT and Auto Care Located at 27-32 st marys place, Southampton, SO14 3HY Service offers: General Auto Repairs MOT Class 4 and 7 ( cars and vans) Brake Repair Clutch and transmission Tyre and 3D alignment Vehicle Diagnostic Vehicle Remapping Suspension Air Conditioning

Eco Tyres 30-32 St. Marys Place, Southampton, SO143HY

T G Services

http://tgservices.co.uk/ http://ahead-tyres.co.uk/ Car repairs and car servicing is what we do. Batteries, Brakes, Clutch, Car Engines, Car Exhausts, MOT

Joy's Keep Unit 26 Hazel Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 7GA

Solent MOT Centre ltd

Based in upper shirley (Winchester Road) in southampton, Close to the general hospital, we offer a range of services such as class 4 mot, servicing, mot repairs, suspension, clutches and same day mot and repairs.

Unit 3A North Brook Industrial Estate, Hollybrook Road, Southampton, SO166RB

New Chapel Garage Services - Hedge End

New Chapel Garage is an established local independent garage offering quality repairs and fantastic customer service. We 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. All our staff give a friendly, honest and professional service whether it be car servicing, car repair or carrying your vehicles yearly MOT which are carried out on site by our own staff. We are a DVSA/VOSA approved MOT testing station and our mechanics are always happy to offer impartial advice and guidance, and with our cutting-edge digital diagnostic tools we can pinpoint vehicle issues in moments.. 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. Simply drop off your car with us and collect it when it’s ready; or stick around and enjoy a hot or cold drink on us while you wait!

7 Mayflower Park, Botley Road, Southampton, SO302HE

Cadnam Garage Services

Whether needing an MOT, service or repairs, an ECU remap, or just another vehicle, our team of experienced technicians and support staff are happy to advise you in finding a solution to your requirements. Cadnam Garage is a member of the Good Garage Scheme, as well as an approved RAC and AA garage. We adhere to a strict code of conduct, which provides an open and honest approach to everything carried out in our workshops. While your vehicle is in our care, we will keep you informed every step of the way, and we will not undertake any additional work without your prior approval.

Southampton Road, Cadnam, SO40 2NB

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.