Car Diagnostics

A professional car diagnostic check helps identify problems hidden inside your vehicle’s systems. Using a diagnostic check on car, trained technicians connect a diagnostic tool to read the fault memory and detect issues early.

Typical steps included:

• Reading the engine management light and other engine warning lights on the dashboard
• Scanning the vehicle’s fault memory for error codes
• Checking key systems such as the engine, exhaust, ABS (anti-lock braking system) and electronics
• Clearing or resetting the check engine warning light where possible
• Providing a detailed diagnostic report with results of the diagnostic check.
• Offering a transparent repair quote for your fault diagnosis car if it shows problems

Every vehicle is different – the exact scope of a vehicle diagnostic test depends on the model and the fault. For tailored advice, please visit your nearest Bosch Car Service workshop.

A standard car diagnostic check usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. In some cases, a full vehicle diagnostic test may take longer if several systems need to be checked in detail.

What influences the duration:

• The number of engine warning lights or other faults stored in the fault memory
• Whether only a basic diagnostic check is needed or a full automotive diagnostics service
• The make, model and age of the vehicle – modern cars with complex electronics may need more time
• If after removing the fault diagnosis your car may require a road test or additional checks after reading the codes

Times can vary depending on the car and the issue. For an exact estimate, it’s best to ask your nearest Bosch Car Service workshop for individual advice.

The price of a professional car diagnostic check by Bosch Car Service in the UK usually ranges between £50 and £150, depending on the workshop and the vehicle. A full vehicle diagnostic test that checks multiple systems can be higher.

What influences the cost:

• The depth of the diagnostic check on car (basic scan vs. full automotive diagnostics)
• Vehicle make, model and age – modern cars have complex electronics which may take more time
• Whether only the fault memory is read or if a complete diagnostic report is provided
• Additional tests could be required (e.g. road test, system resets, clearing the check engine warning light)

Repairs are not included in the price of the diagnostic check. If the engine management light or other engine warning lights reveal faults, a separate repair quote will always be provided and agreed individually.

These prices are only rough guidelines. For an accurate diagnostic service cost and tailored advice, please contact your nearest Bosch Car Service workshop.

The check engine light (also called engine management light or engine warning light) should only be reset after a full and in-depth car diagnostic check. Simply clearing the warning without fixing the fault does not solve the problem and may cause serious engine damage.

Why you should not reset it yourself:

• DIY tools or apps may only clear the fault memory temporarily
• Underlying issues stay unresolved and the engine light on dashboard will often come back and cause more damage to your vehicle
• Important safety and emissions problems could be missed
• Incorrect resets can even cause further electrical faults

The safe way is to have a professional vehicle diagnostics service carried out in a workshop. At Bosch Car Service, we have trained experts who read the diagnostic codes, perform a full engine diagnosis, and only reset the light once the fault has been repaired. Always let a trusted garage like Bosch Car Service do this for you.

When the engine management light (sometimes called the check engine lamp or engine warning light) appears on your dashboard, it signals that the car’s system has detected a fault. This can range from a minor issue to a serious problem.

Common reasons for the light to come on:

• Loose or faulty fuel cap
• Problems with the exhaust or emissions system
• Faults in ignition, spark plugs or sensors
• Engine or transmission issues stored in the fault memory

The engine indicator light may show in different colours:

• Orange/yellow engine light → usually a warning to book a car diagnostics check soon
• Flashing engine light → stop driving and seek help immediately, as the fault may damage the engine

Because the exact cause is not visible without a vehicle diagnostic test, always book a professional diagnostic check on car at your nearest Bosch Car Service workshop for an accurate fault diagnosis car and tailored advice.

Most drivers only book a car diagnostic check when the engine management light or another engine warning light appears. However, regular vehicle servicing can prevent costly repairs.

General recommendations:

• Your vehicle should be have a routine service at least once every 12–18 months
• Whenever the check engine warning light comes on the dashboard
• After buying a used car to detect hidden faults in the fault memory
• Before long journeys or MOT/inspection for extra peace of mind

While you don’t need a vehicle diagnostic test every few months but for personalised advice, ask your local Bosch Car Service workshop.

You may need a car diagnostic check if your vehicle shows warning signs on the dashboard that something is wrong. Modern cars store faults in the fault memory, which can only be read with a professional vehicle diagnostic test.

Typical signs you should book diagnostics:

• Engine warning light or check engine lamp on the dashboard
• Strange noises, vibrations or loss of power
• Higher fuel consumption than usual
• Electrical faults, such as problems with lights, sensors or the dashboard
• Failed MOT or emissions test results

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, a professional car diagnostics check can quickly identify the cause. For a safe and reliable fault diagnosis car, always visit your nearest Bosch Car Service workshop for individual advice.