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EnglishEngine light on, suspicious noise, pre-purchase check: in all these situations, the question of diagnostic cost comes up quickly. Here's an honest, figures-based comparison between the garage and a personal OBD2 scanner.
Contents
How much does a garage diagnostic cost?
Most garages in Belgium charge between €50 and €150 just to plug in their diagnostic tool and tell you the fault code(s) detected — a fee that applies even if the problem turns out to be minor (a loose fuel cap, for example).
How much does a personal OBD2 scanner cost?
A personal OBD2 scanner usually costs between €25 and €40 depending on the model, for unlimited, long-lasting use — you pay for it back relative to a single garage visit the first time you use it, and it remains available for every time after that.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Garage | OBD2 scanner |
|---|---|---|
| Cost to read a code | €50 to €150 | One-off purchase, €25 to €40 |
| Delay | Appointment needed | Instant, at home |
| Future uses | New fee each time | Free, unlimited |
| Repair if needed | Possible on the spot | Requires a garage afterwards |
When a garage is still needed?
A personal scanner excels at quickly reading a code and getting a first steer, but an in-depth diagnostic (precise electrical component testing, oscilloscope, interpreting rare or multiple codes) remains the domain of an equipped garage and a trained technician.
FAQ — Diagnostic price
Does a personal scanner fully replace the garage?
No, it mainly replaces the first step (identifying the fault code) — the repair itself often requires skills and tools that only a garage has.
Does the scanner really pay for itself on first use?
Yes in most cases: the purchase price of a personal scanner is usually lower than the cost of a single garage visit just to read a code.
Can you negotiate the diagnostic price at a garage?
Some garages include the diagnostic for free if you then have the repair done there — don't hesitate to ask before paying.
🔧 Our OBD2 scanner, pays for itself from first use
Read and clear your own fault codes — Free delivery to Belgium