Car Diagnostics | Book a Car Diagnostic in Colchester

£58.88

Average price for this repair in Colchester in the last 30 days^

Trustpilot rating for all RAC Mobile Mechanics.

Why choose the RAC for a car diagnostic?

At the RAC, we've got over 125 years' experience helping UK drivers. We have the skills and knowledge to keep your vehicle running.

Plus, with RAC Mobile Mechanics, you can avoid the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage when you need a repair. We’ll come to you, at your home or work.

Close up of an RAC Mobile Mechanic underneath a car

Our top pick in Colchester

Our top pick

RAC Mobile Mechanic in Colchester

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.

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.

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

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.

Try one of our RAC Approved Garages

View all garages

88 Motors and MOT Repairs

5.0/5

For all your vehicle needs in Colchester, Essex from servicing, maintenance & repair to tyres , brakes, clutches and MOT from skilled mechanics in our garage workshop. We're here to help.

Unit 15 Davey Close, Colchester, CO12XL

All Trans Autos Ltd, Bosch Car Service

5.0/5

All Trans Autos was started in August 1980 by Jill and Richard. We employed our first member of staff, Tony, in 1984 and we are proud that he is still in our employment. Over the past 34 years All Trans Autos has grown and today has 15 employees, ranging from fully qualified technicians to part time office staff. Each one is a valued member of the team and provides the excellent customer service for which the company is renowned. All Trans Autos prides itself on its fantastic training program. Even after 25 years Tony is still attending training to keep up to speed with the fast moving technology in today’s cars. We have trained four apprentices over the period and currently have our fifth apprentice who is in his first year of training. The husband and wife team of Jill and Richard provides an excellent atmosphere. They work along side their staff, giving the garage that family feel. Their children all help within the company, inputting their skills where required, although only one of them works full time, as the company’s fleet manager. In 2006 All Trans Autos moved to its present location – the same year in which we became a Bosch Car Service centre. In order to become a BCS certain criteria have to be met. To read more about this see our Bosch page. Today All Trans Autos is one of the largest independent garages in Colchester. We offer unlimited expertise and are able to deal with most makes to dealer level. We operate to standards beyond those that are expected even by Bosch, and we won their quality award in our first year. We were shortlisted down to the last three in the Independent Garage of the Year Award in 2008.

Unit 7 Moss Road, Stanway, Colchester, CO30LE

Great Horkesley Garage

5.0/5

First established in 1994, we have decades worth of experience to tackle anything you challenge us with! We are a very successful, family run business that provides MOT, servicing, fuel sales and a shop for everyday essentials. Our mechanics are fully qualified and committed to providing a high quality service at reasonable prices on all makes and models of cars and vans.

The Causeway, Great Horkesley, CO64EJ

Richardsons Colchester

4.8/5

Established in 1966 we are one of the South East's leading vehicle repair centres. We have a team of highly trained ATA staff and we are a BSI approved repair centre so you can ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly. We carry our vehicle servicing and repairs at very competitive prices but still follow the exact schedule recommended by the manufacturer and your warranty is NOT compromised regardless of the age of the vehicle. We also fit parking sensors, tyres, batteries, in fact we can undertake almost any of your car needs. We have alos recently been certified as a Which Trusted Trader which the company has been audited on our ability to provide customers with a honest service quality and cost standard. See for yourself by visiting www.grahamrichardsons.co.uk

Grange Way, Colchester, CO28HG

Alpha MOT Centre

4.8/5

Welcome to Alpha MOT Centre – your premier destination for MOT testing, servicing, tyre replacements, brake repairs, battery services, and diagnostics in Colchester. Our expert team is dedicated to providing top-quality automotive maintenance and repair services to keep your vehicle in peak condition. From routine MOT checks to comprehensive servicing and repairs, we use advanced diagnostic tools and high-quality parts to ensure your vehicle performs at its best. Trust Alpha MOT Centre for reliable, professional service that keeps you safe on the road.

Unit K, Chandlers Row, Colchester, CO12HG

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.