How Much Does a Full Diagnostic Cost on a Car?

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A full car diagnostic at an independent mechanic typically costs between $80 and $150. Dealerships usually charge more, ranging from $100 to $200 or higher depending on the brand. This fee covers connecting professional diagnostic equipment to your vehicle's computer, reading trouble codes, and interpreting what they mean. Many shops will waive the diagnostic fee if you have the repair done there. Auto parts stores like AutoZone or O'Reilly often provide free basic code scans, but these only read simple trouble codes and don't include professional analysis. Want to save money? Learn how to do diagnostics yourself or use your phone as a diagnostic tool. See also: diagnostic test costs.