Not sure what's wrong? Book a diagnostic inspection in Essex today

A diagnostic inspection is a job whereby a trained mechanic will check and monitor a problem on the vehicle and wil pin-point what is needed to fix the issue. Whenever there is an issue with your vehicle, a mechanical understanding of the components is required to ascertain the cause. From unusual sounds coming from the engine, to a knocking sound when you travel over bumps and pot holes, it isn't always clear why it is occurring.

This very much depends on what the issue is, how frequently it occurs and also the location of the suspected problem. A mechanic will be able to go through the symptoms, evaluate the potential causes and reduce the likely culprit down enough to identify the culprit.

Once they have located the cause, if it is something that can be fixed there and then without the requirement of additional time and parts (and in most cases, this is the outcome), they will resolve it for you.

If the rectification requires parts and a return visit, the mechanic will provide you with a no obligation quite for the work and if you wish to proceed, they will arrange return visit with you.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a diagnostic inspection is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

A diagnostic inspection usually takes under 1 hour. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

Yes, a mobile mechanic can call at your house and can inspect the car and diagnose a problem. If there is a minor issue the mechanic will endeavour to carry out any small fixes in the labour time quoted initially (the price of the inspection does not include any additional parts that may be necessary to fix the problem). Should there be any bigger problems the mechanic will provide you with a quote for the work and parts necessary to repair the problem.

Cost for a diagnostic check is on average £65. Ultimately the cost of a diagnostic inspection depends on your car, location and problem on the car. Find out what you could save by having a diagnostic inspection carried out by ClickMechanic by selecting your car and location at the top of this page to get a quote

Yes, a mobile mechanic is able to help with most repair or diagnostics work on a car. A mobile mechanic carries out repairs on vehicles at a location chosen by you (provided it is safe to work at). You would have the convenience of the mechanic coming to you, instead of having the hassle of taking your vehicle to a garage. Mobile mechanics are able to carry out most repairs this way.

The mechanics on our network are able to ‘Jack-up’ your vehicle to access the vehicle from underneath. Providing there is sufficient space around the vehicle, this won't cause any problems.

A car diagnostic test can tell you if there are any problems with your car's engine, transmission, exhaust system, or other major components. For example, it can reveal whether the car has any faults, such as a faulty oxygen sensor or a misfire in the engine.

You may find some garages advertising that a diagnostic is 'free' but there is usually a hidden fee attached to it. This is because diagnostic tools are expensive and the job takes about an hour or so to complete.

To avoid paying any "hidden" fees, you can book with ClickMechanic which will provide an upfront price for a car diagnostic inspection.

Cars can have a range of warning lights on the dashboard - if it's red, it's a serious and dangerous problem and you should stop driving as soon as it is safe to do so. Yellow or orange generally means something is wrong, to be careful and get it checked as soon as possible.

The warning light symbol that illuminates will usually indicate what component is affected. A full list of warning light symbols and what they mean will be found in the owner's manual or vehicle handbook.

In the event of a red dashboard warning light, you should immediately stop driving, as soon as it is safe to do so on the road. A red warning indicates a severe fault that requires immediate attention by a qualified mechanic. An orange or yellow light usually indicates that you're fine to continue driving, but you'll need to check for the fault as soon as possible. Make sure to follow manufacturer guidance on this, which you can find in your owner's manual.

A car diagnostic test is usually not part of a warranty. However, if there are repairs or replacements needed as part of the diagnostic then this may be covered under the warranty.

Diagnostic tests for cars are not generally covered by car insurance, but you may be able to claim repairs afterward. Be sure to check your documents to see if the service you need is covered by your insurance policy.