Concerned about an unexplained car problem but unsure about the diagnostic costs?
Then, worry not!
A car diagnostic service may seem a little pricey at first, but it can help save money in the long run by catching potential issues early. It involves using a scan tool to check for problems in the engine, transmission, brakes, and other systems.
But how much does a car diagnostic cost?
We’ll break down the pricing and discuss some financing options to keep your car and bank account in good shape.
Let’s begin!
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does a Car Diagnostic Test Cost?
- What Does the Diagnostic Process Include?
- Is the Car Diagnostic Cost Worth It?
- How to Finance Your Car Diagnosis and Auto Repair
- 3 FAQs on Vehicle Diagnostic
How Much Does a Car Diagnostic Test Cost?
Here’s a complete breakdown of the expenses involved in the diagnostic procedure:
A. Range
A diagnostic check typically costs between $20 and $500, but the charge may vary based on its comprehensiveness:
- Low-range: $20 to $70 (basic diagnostic scan to determine problem codes)
- Mid-range: $70 to $200 (diagnostic scan and in-depth examination of problem codes)
- High-range: $200 to $500 (advanced test including a scan of your car’s computer, system inspections, and precise identification of the problem)
B. Factors Affecting the Car Diagnostic Cost
Besides your vehicle’s model and test’s complexity, other factors that influence your costs include:
- Vehicle age: Older vehicles without an onboard computer may require more manual labor than modern cars, as the mechanic may not have access to any diagnostic trouble code for guidance.
- Location: Due to the higher living costs in urban areas, mechanics may charge more to cover their business expenses.
- The mechanic’s experience: Professionals with more years of experience are likely to conduct thorough vehicle diagnostics much faster than an entry-level mechanic. However, they may charge higher labor rates, increasing your overall expenses.
- Repair shop type: A dealership will tend to have higher overhead costs than an independent repair shop as they often operate in larger facilities.
Now that you know the charges, you’re probably curious about what car diagnostics entail. We’ve covered this below.
What Does the Diagnostic Process Include?
A mechanic will perform several procedures to determine the car problem, the first of which is:
- Retrieving the error codes: For modern vehicles, they’ll connect a diagnostic tool (usually an OBD II scan tool) to your car’s computer (via the OBD port). It’ll scan for error codes that indicate problems with various vehicle components.
However, a diagnostic trouble code doesn’t always give ample information to determine the vehicle issue. So, the mechanic will perform additional tests on different systems, such as:
- Engine: They’ll assess the engine’s performance by measuring horsepower on a dynamometer and road-testing the vehicle.
- Transmission: They’ll drive the vehicle to check the transmission’s performance, inspect the fluid levels, test the solenoids, and examine clutch plates as well as gears.
- Emissions control: The mechanic will inspect various parts, such as the oxygen sensor and catalytic converter. They’ll also perform a smoke test to check for vacuum leaks.
- Electrical: They’ll check for erratic electrical behavior, like malfunctioning lights, and perform battery tests (e.g., voltage drop, continuity, and ground tests).
- Braking: Besides visually inspecting the components, the mechanic will assess the brake’s performance, fluid quality, and line pressure.
- Ignition: This inspection will include checking the spark plugs (and wires) for wear and assessing their functionality using a spark plug tester.
- Cooling: They’ll inspect the system for leaks, check the coolant levels, look for clogging in the radiator, and ensure the thermostat isn’t stuck.
- Steering and suspension: The mechanic will perform a bounce test, check the power steering fluid, and visually inspect the system components.
- HVAC: They’ll turn on the air conditioner or heater to check for proper airflow from the vents into the cabin. They’ll also test the electrical supply of components like the blower motor using a multimeter and ensure the thermostat is operational.
- Airbags: They’ll inspect the fusebox, wiring, sensors, and airbag module.
Paying for such comprehensive vehicle diagnostics may seem daunting, but it’s a necessary investment for your vehicle. Let’s learn why.
Is the Car Diagnostic Cost Worth It?
Yes, regular diagnostic tests are essential for your safety and to prevent expensive repairs. For example, a combustion problem could cause a sudden power loss, putting you in significant danger in traffic.
Even a minor issue like a coolant leak can lead to severe engine damage and costly repairs without timely intervention. In the worst case, something like a failed water pump can cause engine overheating and complete failure, costing up to $13,000 to replace.
A professional mechanic can detect these problems early and save you the trouble.
However, covering their diagnostic fee can sometimes be a challenge.
But don’t worry! We’ll explore some financing options for you.
How to Finance Your Car Diagnosis and Auto Repair
Besides paying up front, here are other ways a car owner can manage the expenses:
- Check your warranty: If your vehicle is still under warranty, it may cover the costs of the diagnosis and car repair.
- Verify your insurance coverage: Depending on your policy, your insurance plan may provide partial or complete coverage for the diagnostic fee.
- Apply for a loan: Based on your credit score, you could get a loan for car repair from a bank, dealership, or credit union The loan options will have different eligibility requirements, payment periods, and interest rates.
- Get a credit card: Some credit cards offer an interest-free introductory period, which could save you money when paying back the diagnostic fee.
NOTE: Some mechanics may offer their customers free diagnostic tests as part of promotions or seasonal offers. However, this differs for each shop, and the labor cost involved in the auto repair may cover the cost of diagnosis.
Have some unanswered questions about car diagnostics?
Read further to learn more.
3 FAQs on Vehicle Diagnostic
Here’s everything else you should know about a car or engine diagnostic test:
1. When Should You Get a Car Diagnostic Check?
You should schedule a diagnosis under the following circumstances:
- A lit check engine light: If a problem affects the engine’s functioning (e.g., a faulty fuel injector), the car’s computer on modern vehicles will trigger the check engine light.
- Unexpected problems with your pre-owned car: Diagnostic tests can help determine and resolve a car problem the previous owner didn’t disclose.
- Overdue car maintenance: If you’ve skipped regular maintenance for a while, your car may need a checkup.
- Abnormal vehicle performance: Unusual sounds, difficulty steering, acceleration problems, hard starting, stalling, and reduced fuel efficiency all point to a car problem that requires an inspection.
2. How Long Does a Car Diagnosis Take & How Often to Get One?
Diagnosing vehicle problems can take one to four hours, depending on the problem’s complexity. A minor issue takes around an hour, whereas a thorough inspection with several diagnostic tests takes longer.
Follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule or get regular diagnostic tests once a year. However, if you notice any performance issues or your dashboard warning light is illuminated, take your car to a mechanic ASAP.
3. How to Maintain Your Vehicle to Prevent Further Issues
There are several car maintenance practices to take care of your vehicle’s systems, such as:
- Get regular oil changes every 5,000 to 7,000 miles to ensure proper lubrication and reduce engine wear.
- Change the transmission fluid every 2 to 5 years or 30,000 to 60,000 miles, and don’t exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity.
- Schedule emissions and exhaust system inspections often to ensure components, like oxygen sensors, function properly.
- Inspect the battery for corrosion once a month and ensure connections are tight. Avoid overloading the electrical system with excessive car accessories.
- Top up or change your brake fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles, and avoid hard stopping.
- Use high-quality fuel and replace spark plugs every 30,000 miles to ensure optimal ignition performance and fuel efficiency.
- Check coolant levels regularly and top off as needed.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to promote even wear, better handling, and a longer lifespan of suspension components.
- Avoid tampering with the airbag system and keep your car out of extreme temperatures.
Get Prompt Car Diagnosis and Repairs with AutoNation Mobile Service
Vehicle diagnostics detect possible issues on time and ensure your car is safe to drive. This service prevents minor issues from becoming costly repairs, so you shouldn’t skip it.
If you’re a car owner looking for a thorough repair, then look no further than AutoNation Mobile Service.
Our mechanics can perform the car diagnostic service from your driveway and offer a 12-month | 12,000-mile warranty on every auto repair.
Contact us to book your next car or engine diagnostic test.