Diagnostics: repair costs

What a check-engine scan costs and what it does and does not tell you. Typical ranges across the US.

• Diagnostic scan (check engine light)$55 to $250. A shop reads the trouble codes from your car's computer and tests the system the code points to. You need it when a warning light is on or the car runs rough.

Other repair types

• Maintenance
• Brakes
• Battery, alternator and starter
• Engine, timing and cooling
• Ignition, fuel and air
• Emissions
• Suspension, tires and alignment
• A/C and heating
• Transmission
• ABS, airbag and electrical
• EV and hybrid

Typical range, estimate. Prices updated October 2026. Not a repair shop, estimates only.