How much are car diagnostic tests in the US?

Is your car getting more difficult to start or emitting strange noises? Then it’s time to have your vehicle’s health checked by an expert. However, the potential car diagnostic test cost may hold you back from doing so.

Through this article, you’ll learn the factors that can affect how much you can be charged for a diagnostic service so you can prepare an adequate budget. Here, you’ll also discover ways to save on costs and find the right pro or team for the job.

What are the average costs of auto diagnostic tests in the US?

Calculator and toy cars on an auto expense chart (Source: iStock)

Listed in the table below is the average price of a car diagnostic test across the country’s major cities:

*Prices shown are typical total costs per job based on recent Airtasker data. Actual costs may vary.

What factors affect the costs of car diagnostic tests?

Don’t know why car diagnostic tests can sometimes get so costly? Here are the major factors that affect the amount you pay when hiring someone to perform the service.

Diagnostic test type

OBD2 scanner connected inside a vehicle (Source: iStock)

Simple tests that involve using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes are usually affordable. This is because they are limited in what they can detect in terms of car problems and parts.

Meanwhile, more advanced and specialized diagnostic tests can check components such as the transmission, ABS, airbags, and other parts of the powertrain, chassis, and body. Consequently, a full diagnostic test on cars costs significantly more.

Vehicle type and technology

The cost of a diagnostic test on a car can also be influenced by make, model, and technology. A standard SUV from a non-luxury brand will probably not need specialized equipment for diagnosis. However, an electric hatchback may require specialist knowledge, more advanced software, and brand-specific diagnostic scan tools, leading to pricier service fees.

Required diagnostic tools and software

Mechanic reviewing vehicle data during engine inspection (Source: iStock)

Another factor that affects the cost for a car diagnostic test is the kind of car diagnostic tools to be used. Simple ones, such as code readers, digital multimeters, non-contact thermometers, and fuel pressure gauges, don’t have a big impact on pricing.

However, connecting a professional-grade scanner to your car’s onboard computer or using high-end tools specifically designed for your vehicle typically increases the total cost.

Labor time and fault complexity

When a mechanic calculates a vehicle’s diagnostic test cost, they take into account both the complexity and the length of the work. This means you should expect higher diagnostic fees if your car has to undergo detailed testing to detect a problem that’s difficult to identify.

Service type: mobile vs. workshop

How much does a car diagnosis cost at a workshop versus at a location of your choice? Similar to a car wash or detailing services, diagnostics at auto repair shops can be slightly pricier than mobile services, since overhead costs are factored in.

However, your location and its accessibility can make mobile diagnostic charges higher than the average cost of a car diagnostic test; if you are in a remote area, a mechanic may charge additional fees for the time and effort required to reach you.

Additional testing or follow-up work

The diagnosis fee for a car can increase if it’s necessary to conduct additional testing due to vague or unclear results. However, if follow-up work is required, such as electrical part replacement, diagnostic charges may be waived or lowered if you get your car repaired at the same garage or by the same mechanic.

What are some ways to save on car diagnostic charges?

Vehicle dashboard with illuminated engine alert (Source: iStock)

Whether you have a used car or a brand-new one, you can save on car diagnostic costs through the following measures:

• Get quotes from different service providers so you can find and acquire the best deal based on your needs.

• If your vehicle is out of warranty, you can opt for an independent shop instead of a dealership garage since the former usually posts lower fees and labor rates.

• If the kind of diagnostic test your car needs is just simple, such as a check engine light scan, you can ask an auto shop or mechanic if they can perform the service for free.

What should you look for in a car diagnostics expert?

Here are some things to ask when looking for an auto mechanic or shop:

• Do they have the right certifications and licenses to operate and provide diagnostic services (e.g., business license, manufacturer certification)?

• Do they have the expertise, experience, and tools to conduct the diagnostic work your vehicle needs?

• Do they provide a service warranty?

• Do they have excellent reviews and ratings from past customers?

Detect car issues proactively with Airtasker

Mechanic checking vehicle diagnostics on a tablet (Source: iStock)

Having regular auto diagnostic tests is essential, whether you have ongoing vehicular concerns or not. And on Airtasker, you can find an expert who can competently assess your car’s condition and identify problems that need to be addressed.

Simply sign up on the platform and post a task that includes your location, your budget range, any car problems you have, and your target date. Afterward, wait for Taskers to respond and take your pick based on their customer reviews and ratings.