Wondering what a mobile mechanic actually charges? Here’s everything you need to know about mobile mechanic costs in the UK – from hourly rates and call-out fees to what you’ll actually pay for common repairs.
Your car’s making That Noise again. You know the one – that mysterious clunk, rattle, or whine that started yesterday and is now impossible to ignore. Or perhaps you’ve woken up to a completely dead battery, and you’re supposed to be at work in an hour. The thought of arranging recovery, finding a garage with availability, sorting out a courtesy car, and spending half your day in a waiting room that smells of old coffee and desperation is already giving you a headache.
Enter the mobile mechanic: someone who comes to you, diagnoses the problem on your driveway, and (hopefully) sorts it whilst you’re getting on with your day. Brilliant concept, right? But here’s the question that’s probably brought you to this article: what’s it actually going to cost?
The honest answer is: it depends. (Sorry, we know that’s not helpful.) But stick with us, because we’re about to break down exactly what mobile mechanics charge across the UK, what affects those costs, and – crucially – whether you’re getting a fair price or being taken for a ride.
The Short Answer: What Mobile Mechanics Actually Charge
Let’s cut to the chase. If you just want the numbers, here’s what you’re looking at in 2025:
Hourly labour rates:
- London and South East: £50-£80 per hour
- Major cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Edinburgh): £35-£65 per hour
- Regional towns and suburbs: £30-£55 per hour
- Rural areas: £25-£50 per hour
Call-out fees:
- Standard call-out: £45-£85 (often deducted from final bill if you proceed with work)
- Emergency/out-of-hours: £100-£200+
- Weekend rates: Usually 20-30% premium on standard rates
- Bank holidays: 30-50% premium
Important: These rates are for labour only. Parts, fluids, and materials are charged separately, typically with a 20-40% mark-up over trade prices.
Now, if you’re thinking “That’s quite a range,” you’re absolutely right. Let’s dig into why mobile mechanic costs vary so much and what you should actually expect to pay for common repairs.
Why Mobile Mechanic Costs Vary So Dramatically
Before we get into specific job costs, it’s worth understanding why you might get quoted £40 from one mobile mechanic and £80 from another for the same job. It’s not necessarily that one’s a cowboy and one’s legitimate – there are genuine reasons for the price differences.
Location, Location, Location
Unsurprisingly, where you live has a massive impact on mobile mechanic costs. A mobile mechanic operating in central London faces completely different overheads compared to someone working in rural Lincolnshire:
London mechanics deal with congestion charges (£15/day), extortionate parking, higher insurance premiums, expensive storage for their van and equipment, and frankly, higher living costs that need to be reflected in their rates. A mechanic in zone 2 charging £65/hour isn’t necessarily making more profit than a mechanic in Barnsley charging £35/hour – they’re just covering their wildly different cost bases.
Rural mechanics face their own challenges too. Whilst their overheads might be lower, they’re often covering much larger geographical areas, meaning higher fuel costs and more travel time between jobs. That £50 call-out fee might seem steep until you realise they’ve just driven 45 minutes to reach you.
Experience and Qualifications
Not all mobile mechanics are created equal, and their pricing often reflects their expertise:
Recently qualified mechanics (1-3 years experience) typically charge at the lower end of the spectrum. They’re building their reputation and client base, so competitive pricing makes sense. This doesn’t mean they can’t do good work – just that they might take longer on complex jobs and might not have seen every possible problem yet.
Experienced generalists (5-10 years) with solid reputations usually sit in the middle of the price range. They’ve encountered most common issues, work efficiently, and have the diagnostic experience to spot problems quickly.
Specialists (electric vehicle techs, classic car experts, performance vehicle mechanics) command premium rates because they’ve invested heavily in specialist training, tools, and diagnostic equipment. If you’re paying £75/hour for an EV specialist versus £45 for a general mechanic, you’re paying for expertise that could save you thousands in misdiagnosis.
Time of Day and Urgency
Here’s where mobile mechanic costs can really jump:
Standard hours (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm): Standard rates apply
Evenings (5pm-10pm): Expect 20-30% premium
Weekends: Add 20-30% to weekday rates
Sundays and bank holidays: Add 30-50% premium
Emergency call-outs (middle of the night, roadside breakdowns): £100-£200+ just to get someone out, then standard hourly rates apply
That mechanic who charges £45/hour weekdays? They’re completely within their rights to charge £65/hour on a Saturday afternoon. You’re paying for their weekend time, and frankly, they’ve probably got better things to do than lie under your car when they could be watching the football.
Equipment and Overheads
Mobile mechanics operate from fully-equipped vans that essentially function as mobile workshops. The good ones have invested serious money in:
- Diagnostic equipment: £500-£3,000+ for quality scan tools
- Specialist tools: Easily £5,000-£15,000 for a comprehensive toolkit
- Van: £3,000-£20,000 depending on age and specification
- Insurance: Public liability, professional indemnity, tool insurance, van insurance (£2,000-£5,000 annually)
- Fuel: At current prices, this is a significant monthly cost
- Parts storage: Some mechanics carry common consumables (oil, filters, brake fluid)
All of this needs to be factored into their pricing. The mechanic turning up with a battered van and a basic socket set won’t be charging the same as someone with a pristine Mercedes Sprinter full of the latest diagnostic tech – and honestly, you probably don’t want the first person working on your car anyway.
What You’ll Actually Pay: Common Job Costs
Right, enough theory. Let’s talk about what common repairs and services actually cost when you hire a mobile mechanic in 2025. These prices include labour, call-out fees, and typical parts costs based on a mid-range vehicle (think Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, Vauxhall Astra).
Oil and Filter Change
Total cost: £45-£120
- Labour: 30-45 minutes (£15-£45)
- Call-out: £30-£60 (often waived for this service)
- Parts: Engine oil (4-6 litres, £20-£40) + oil filter (£5-£15)
This is bread-and-butter mobile mechanic work. Quick, straightforward, and convenient. You’re probably paying £10-£20 more than a quick-fit garage, but you’re saving 2-3 hours of your life sitting in their waiting room. Worth it? For most people, absolutely.
Regional variation: London £80-£120, regional £45-£85
Battery Replacement
Total cost: £80-£250
- Labour: 30-60 minutes (£15-£50)
- Call-out: £40-£70
- Parts: Car battery (£50-£150+ depending on specification)
Battery replacement is one of the most common reasons people call mobile mechanics – usually because the car won’t start at all. Modern cars with stop-start systems need more expensive batteries (£100-£150 vs. £50-£80 for standard batteries).
Watch out for: Some vehicles need battery registration after replacement (especially BMWs and VWs), which requires specialist diagnostic equipment. Make sure your mobile mechanic can do this, or you might have electrical gremlins afterwards.
Regional variation: London £150-£250, regional £80-£180
Brake Pad Replacement
Total cost: £120-£400 (for one axle)
- Labour: 1-2 hours (£40-£120)
- Call-out: £45-£75
- Parts: Brake pads (£30-£100), sometimes brake discs needed too (add £60-£200)
Brake work is a perfect mobile mechanic job – straightforward, no specialist equipment needed beyond basic tools, and something that definitely needs doing properly. Most mobile mechanics are perfectly capable of this work.
Important: If your brake discs are scored or below minimum thickness, they need replacing too. A good mechanic will measure them and show you, not just assume you need new ones.
Regional variation: London £200-£400, regional £120-£300
Diagnostic and Fault Finding
Total cost: £50-£150
- Labour: 30 minutes – 2 hours (£25-£120)
- Call-out: £40-£70
- Equipment: Use of diagnostic scanner (sometimes included, sometimes £20-£40 separately)
This is where mobile mechanics can really prove their worth. That dashboard warning light that’s been glowing at you? A diagnostic scan might reveal it’s just a dodgy sensor (£30 fix) rather than a major engine problem (£800+ fix). Good diagnostic work can save you an absolute fortune.
Reality check: Not all problems can be diagnosed in your driveway. Sometimes you need specialist equipment, extensive testing, or test drives to identify intermittent faults. A good mechanic will be honest about this rather than guessing.
Regional variation: London £80-£150, regional £50-£100
Alternator Replacement
Total cost: £200-£600
- Labour: 1.5-3 hours (£50-£180)
- Call-out: £50-£80
- Parts: Alternator (£100-£350 depending on vehicle)
Alternator problems often present as battery issues (car won’t start, dashboard lights dim), but if a jump-start gets you going and then the battery dies again quickly, it’s likely your alternator isn’t charging properly. This is manageable mobile mechanic work on most vehicles.
Vehicle-specific: Some cars have the alternator buried under other components (we’re looking at you, certain Audis), which turns a 90-minute job into a 3-hour nightmare. Always get a quote specific to your vehicle.
Regional variation: London £350-£600, regional £200-£450
Starter Motor Replacement
Total cost: £180-£500
- Labour: 1-2.5 hours (£40-£150)
- Call-out: £50-£75
- Parts: Starter motor (£80-£280)
Classic symptoms: you turn the key and get either clicking noises or nothing at all. If your battery’s fine and your alternator’s charging properly, you probably need a new starter motor. Most mobile mechanics can handle this, though accessibility varies wildly between vehicles.
Watch out for: Make sure it’s definitely the starter motor and not just a faulty battery or corroded connections. A good mechanic will test the battery and connections before recommending a new starter.
Regional variation: London £300-£500, regional £180-£400
Clutch Replacement
Total cost: £350-£800 (labour only, many mobile mechanics won’t do this)
Here’s where we start reaching the limits of what most mobile mechanics can comfortably do on your driveway. Clutch replacement requires:
- Lifting the vehicle safely
- Removing the gearbox
- Specialist tools for some vehicles
- Adequate working space
- Several hours of uninterrupted work
Some mobile mechanics specialise in this and have the proper lifting equipment and expertise. Many will honestly tell you this needs to go to a garage. If you find a mobile mechanic who’ll do it, expect to pay at the upper end of this range – it’s skilled, physical work that takes 4-6 hours even for experienced mechanics.
Timing Belt/Cam Belt Replacement
Total cost: £300-£800+ (often not offered by mobile mechanics)
Timing belt replacement is critical maintenance (if your belt snaps, you’re looking at £2,000-£5,000+ engine repair), but it’s complex work that many mobile mechanics won’t attempt in your driveway. It requires:
- Specialist locking tools specific to your engine
- Precise timing and alignment
- Often involves removing multiple engine components
- 3-5 hours of work
Some mobile mechanics do offer this service, but many will recommend a garage for peace of mind. If you find one willing to do it, make absolutely sure they have the manufacturer-specific tools and have done this job on your particular engine before.
Full Service
Total cost: £120-£300
Interim service (usually every 6 months or 6,000 miles): £80-£150
- Oil and filter change
- Basic safety checks (tyres, brakes, lights, fluids)
- 40-60 minute job
Full service (usually annually or 12,000 miles): £150-£300
- Everything in interim service
- Air filter replacement
- Spark plugs (if due)
- Comprehensive inspection of brakes, suspension, steering
- Check and top-up all fluids
- 90-120 minute job
This is a huge convenience area for mobile mechanics. Having your car serviced whilst you’re working from home or on a weekend morning beats spending three hours at a garage any day. Most mobile mechanics can stamp your service book (important for warranty and resale value).
Leased cars: Check with your leasing company that mobile mechanic servicing is acceptable. Most are fine with it as long as the mechanic uses correct parts and stamps the book, but it’s worth confirming.
Regional variation: Full service in London £200-£300, regional £120-£220
Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect
Right, we’ve covered the obvious costs, but here are some potential extras that might catch you out:
Parts Mark-Up
Mobile mechanics typically add 20-40% to the trade price of parts. This isn’t them being greedy – it covers:
- Their time sourcing and collecting parts
- The risk if a part is faulty and needs replacing
- Warranty coverage (good mechanics warranty both parts and labour)
- Storage and capital tied up in commonly-needed parts
Some mobile mechanics are happy for you to supply your own parts, which can save money – but you then become responsible if those parts are faulty or wrong for your vehicle. There’s also often a reduced or no warranty on labour if customer-supplied parts fail.
Disposal Fees
Oil, filters, batteries, and other automotive waste need proper disposal. Reputable mobile mechanics either:
- Include disposal in their pricing
- Charge a small fee (£5-£15) for waste disposal
- Provide you with details of where to dispose of items yourself (not ideal)
If a mechanic doesn’t mention waste disposal, ask. Fly-tippers dumping oil down drains are not only illegal but environmentally disastrous.
Additional Work Discovered
You call a mobile mechanic for brake pads, and they discover your brake discs are also below minimum thickness. This isn’t necessarily them trying to fleece you – it’s genuine additional work that’s needed. But it can turn a £150 job into a £400 job.
Protect yourself:
- Ask them to show you the problem (worn brake discs, for example, are pretty obvious)
- Get the additional work in writing before they proceed
- If in doubt, ask them just to complete the original job and get a second opinion on the additional work
Travel Charges
Most mobile mechanics include travel within their call-out fee up to a certain radius (usually 15-20 miles). Beyond that, you might pay:
- Extra mileage charges (£0.45-£1.00 per mile)
- Additional travel time charged at hourly rate
- Minimum charge for remote locations
If you’re out in the sticks, always confirm travel charges upfront.
Waiting Time
If the mobile mechanic arrives and can’t start work because:
- You haven’t moved the car to an accessible location
- The driveway is blocked
- Parts they ordered aren’t correct (if you supplied them)
- You’re not present to authorise additional work
…you might be charged waiting time at their hourly rate. Most mechanics will give you reasonable leeway, but if they’re sitting around for 30 minutes waiting for you to shift your partner’s car, you can’t really blame them for charging.
Mobile Mechanic vs Garage: The Real Cost Comparison
“Hold on,” you’re thinking. “Are mobile mechanics actually cheaper than garages?” The answer is: usually, yes – but not always.
Let’s break down a typical brake pad replacement on a Ford Focus:
Main dealer garage:
- Labour: £120 (2 hours at £60/hour)
- Parts: £140 (they’ll use genuine Ford parts with significant mark-up)
- Total: £260
- Plus: Your time getting there and back (1-2 hours), possibly arranging alternative transport
Independent garage:
- Labour: £80-£100 (2 hours at £40-£50/hour)
- Parts: £90 (aftermarket but good quality)
- Total: £170-£190
- Plus: Your time getting there and back (1-2 hours)
Mobile mechanic:
- Labour: £60-£80 (1.5-2 hours at £40/hour)
- Call-out: £50
- Parts: £70 (aftermarket, smaller mark-up)
- Total: £180-£200
- Plus: Your time = 15 minutes to show them the car and sign off the work
So in this example, the mobile mechanic is more expensive than an independent garage by £10-£30, but when you factor in the convenience and time-saving (3-4 hours of your life), most people consider it worth it.
Where mobile mechanics really win:
- Simple jobs (oil changes, batteries, minor diagnostics) – their lack of overhead means they’re often cheaper
- Your time has value – if taking three hours out of your day to visit a garage costs you lost earnings, mobile wins
- Emergency situations – garages can’t usually see you today; mobile mechanics often can
- Multiple vehicles – if you need two cars serviced, the mobile mechanic doing both at your house is definitely cheaper than making two garage trips
Where garages might win:
- Complex work requiring specialist equipment (wheel alignment, AC regas, major diagnostics)
- Warranty concerns – some people prefer main dealer stamps in the service book
- Major repairs requiring vehicle lifts, extensive parts inventory, or multiple specialists
How to Know If You’re Getting a Fair Price
Right, you’ve got three mobile mechanics who’ll replace your brake pads, and they’ve quoted you £180, £220, and £280. How do you know which is the fair price and which is taking the mickey?
Get Multiple Quotes (But Not Too Many)
Three quotes is the sweet spot. Five quotes becomes exhausting and you’ve wasted hours of everyone’s time. One quote leaves you vulnerable to overcharging.
When getting quotes:
- Provide identical information to each mechanic (year, make, model, mileage, symptoms)
- Ask for written quotes with breakdown of labour, parts, and call-out fees
- Clarify what’s included (VAT, disposal fees, warranty)
- Check they’re actually available when you need the work done
Watch for Red Flags
Too cheap: If one quote is dramatically lower than the others (like 40-50% cheaper), be suspicious. They might be:
- Planning to use substandard parts
- Underestimating the job (you’ll get hit with extras)
- Inexperienced and haven’t realised how long it’ll take
- Operating without proper insurance
Too expensive: Equally, if one quote is way higher, they’re either:
- Trying it on
- Using premium parts when standard would do
- Including work you haven’t asked for
- Specialists charging specialist rates for routine work
Cash-only: Whilst cash is fine for small jobs, be wary of anyone who insists on cash only with no invoice. This often means:
- No tax being paid (technically none of your business, but still…)
- No paper trail if something goes wrong
- Possibly no insurance
- No comeback if the work fails
Check What You’re Comparing
Make sure quotes are genuinely comparable:
✅ “£220 including VAT, using quality aftermarket parts, with 12-month warranty”
vs.
✅ “£180 plus VAT, genuine manufacturer parts, 6-month warranty”
These are actually similar prices with different trade-offs. The first is £220 total with good parts. The second is £216 total (£180 + 20% VAT) with premium parts but shorter warranty. Both reasonable.
❌ “£150 all in, cash preferred”
vs.
✅ “£240 including VAT, premium parts, 18-month warranty, fully insured”
These aren’t comparable. The first is suspiciously cheap and cash-only. The second is fully legitimate with better protection.
Ask the Right Questions
Before you commit to a mobile mechanic, ask:
- “Is this price including VAT?” (Some quotes exclude VAT, which adds 20%)
- “What parts are you using?” (OEM, genuine, or aftermarket? Brand names?)
- “What warranty do you offer?” (On both parts and labour – should be minimum 6 months, ideally 12)
- “What if you discover additional work is needed?” (Will they call you first? How much extra?)
- “Will you provide an invoice?” (Legitimate operators always do)
- “Are you fully insured?” (Public liability and professional indemnity)
- “Can I see your qualifications?” (IMI, City & Guilds, manufacturer certifications)
If they’re hesitant or evasive on any of these, walk away.
Check Reviews and Reputation
Before you book anyone:
Google their business name + reviews
- 4.5+ stars from 50+ reviews: Probably sound
- 4.0-4.5 stars: Check what complaints are about
- Below 4.0 or very few reviews: Proceed with caution
Ask for references – Any established mobile mechanic should have satisfied customers willing to vouch for them
Check social media – Local community Facebook groups often have recommendations (and warnings about who to avoid)
Look for repeat business indicators – Mechanics with lots of reviews mentioning “used them again” or “family’s go-to mechanic” are doing something right
What Mobile Mechanics CAN’T Do (And You Need To Know This)
Before we go any further, let’s be very clear about what mobile mechanics can’t do in your driveway. Understanding these limitations will save you time, money, and frustration.
MOT Testing
Can mobile mechanics do MOTs? NO.
This is the most common misconception. MOTs must be conducted at an approved MOT testing station by certified testers using calibrated equipment. It’s the law. End of story.
What mobile mechanics CAN do:
- Pre-MOT inspection to identify likely failures (£40-£70)
- Collect your car, take it for MOT, return it (£50-£100 service fee)
- Fix MOT failures at your home after the test
- Advise on what’s likely to fail based on condition
A pre-MOT check by a mobile mechanic is actually brilliant value. They’ll identify things like worn brake pads, faulty bulbs, or damaged tyres before you rock up to the MOT station, letting you fix problems beforehand and avoid the retest fee.
Major Engine Work
Most mobile mechanics won’t attempt:
- Head gasket replacements
- Full engine rebuilds
- Timing chain (as opposed to belt) replacement
- Anything requiring the engine to be removed
These jobs need proper hoists, engine stands, clean workshops, and often multiple days. They’re just not driveway-appropriate.
Automatic Gearbox Work
Auto gearbox repairs typically require:
- Specialist diagnostic equipment
- Extremely clean working conditions (one grain of dirt = knackered gearbox)
- Precision tools and measurement equipment
- Often, partial disassembly of the vehicle
You might find specialists who do this, but the vast majority of mobile mechanics will tell you this needs a gearbox specialist workshop.
Bodywork and Paint
Mechanical repairs only. Dents, scratches, rust repair, and paint work require:
- Spray booths
- Paint mixing equipment
- Drying/curing facilities
- Body alignment equipment
You need a body shop for this, not a mobile mechanic.
Wheel Alignment
Proper four-wheel alignment requires laser or computer-aided alignment equipment that can’t be transported to your driveway. Some mobile mechanics have basic tools for rough alignment, but if you want it done properly after suspension work or new tyres, you need an alignment specialist.
Air Conditioning Regas
AC work requires specialist equipment to:
- Safely evacuate old refrigerant (it’s illegal to just vent it)
- Check for leaks under pressure
- Recharge with precise amounts of refrigerant
- Add UV dye for leak detection
Some mobile mechanics have portable AC machines, but many don’t. This is often a garage job.
Welding and Fabrication
Whilst some mobile mechanics can do basic welding (exhaust repairs, for example), complex fabrication or structural welding needs a workshop. You definitely don’t want someone welding underneath your car on your driveway without proper ventilation, fire safety equipment, and a stable working platform.
Regional Price Guide: What to Pay Across the UK
Because location makes such a massive difference to mobile mechanic costs, here’s a more detailed breakdown of what you should expect to pay in different parts of the UK in 2025.
London and South East
Hourly rates: £50-£80
Call-out fees: £60-£85
Weekend premium: 25-30% extra
Emergency call-out: £120-£200+
Example job: Battery replacement
- Labour: 30 mins = £25-£40
- Call-out: £65
- Battery: £80-£150
- Total: £170-£255
Why so expensive? Congestion charge, parking costs, higher insurance, expensive van storage, higher living costs mean higher wages needed.
Best value: Book during standard hours, use local mobile mechanics from slightly further out (Zones 4-6) who still serve central London but have lower overheads.
Major Cities (Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, Leeds, Edinburgh, Bristol)
Hourly rates: £35-£65
Call-out fees: £45-£70
Weekend premium: 20-25% extra
Emergency call-out: £100-£150
Example job: Brake pad replacement (front axle)
- Labour: 1.5 hours = £52.50-£97.50
- Call-out: £55
- Parts: £90-£120
- Total: £197.50-£272.50
Reality check: City centre prices are at the upper end; suburbs 10-15% cheaper.
Regional Towns and Suburbs
Hourly rates: £30-£55
Call-out fees: £45-£65
Weekend premium: 20% extra
Emergency call-out: £80-£120
Example job: Full service
- Labour: 90 mins = £45-£82.50
- Call-out: £50
- Parts/fluids: £40-£60
- Total: £135-£192.50
Best value in the UK: Big enough to have good competition, low enough overheads that prices stay reasonable.
Rural Areas
Hourly rates: £25-£50
Call-out fees: £50-£80
Weekend premium: 20% extra
Emergency call-out: £80-£150
Example job: Alternator replacement
- Labour: 2 hours = £50-£100
- Call-out: £60 (possibly more if you’re remote)
- Parts: £120-£180
- Total: £230-£340
The rural premium: Lower hourly rates, but call-out fees can be higher due to travel distances. If you’re truly remote (20+ miles from the nearest town), expect additional mileage charges.
Scotland and Wales
Generally similar to English regional pricing, with some variations:
Scottish cities (Glasgow, Edinburgh): Similar to Manchester/Birmingham
Scottish Highlands and Islands: Expect significant travel charges and limited availability
Welsh valleys and rural areas: Similar to English rural pricing
Cardiff and Swansea: Similar to regional town pricing
Important: If you’re on an island or very remote area, you might struggle to find mobile mechanics at all. Those that serve remote areas charge accordingly – travel time can exceed job time.
Spotting a Mobile Mechanic Rip-Off
Unfortunately, as with any trade, there are mobile mechanics who’ll try to take advantage. Here’s how to protect yourself from getting fleeced.
Classic Rip-Off Tactics
The “While I’m Here” Upsell
You called them for an oil change. They then tell you that you urgently need:
- New air filter (adds £40)
- New cabin filter (adds £35)
- Brake fluid change (adds £60)
- Coolant flush (adds £70)
Are these things likely needed? Maybe. Are they all desperately urgent? Probably not.
Protection: Ask to see the old parts. A genuinely clogged air filter is obvious. Ask when these services were last done and look up manufacturer recommendations. If your car’s only done 15,000 miles since the last full service, it almost certainly doesn’t need all of this.
The Mystery Parts
“Yeah, I’ve had to use a premium [insert part name] because the standard one wouldn’t fit your specific model. That’s £80 extra.”
This might be completely legitimate. Or they might be charging you for premium parts whilst fitting standard ones, hoping you won’t know the difference.
Protection: Ask to see the packaging from the parts used. Take a photo of the part before it goes on. Know what the standard part costs (quick Google search). If they’re charging £200 for a part you can find online for £80, ask why.
The Time Expansion
They quoted 1.5 hours for a job but then take 3 hours and charge you accordingly. Sometimes jobs do take longer than expected (seized bolts, complications), but sometimes mechanics work slowly knowing they’re charging hourly.
Protection: Get fixed-price quotes for labour where possible, not hourly estimates. Ask upfront what happens if the job takes longer than estimated. A good mechanic will eat the extra time if they’ve underestimated; a dodgy one will pass all overruns to you.
The Incompletion Gambit
They start a job, then claim they can’t complete it because [insert excuse], but still charge you for the work done so far. Now your car’s in pieces and you’ve got to pay someone else to finish the job.
Protection: Check reviews specifically mentioning job completion. Ask upfront whether they’ve done this specific job on your vehicle model before. Get agreement in writing that the price covers complete job completion, not just “having a go at it.”
The Cash Discount That Isn’t
“That’ll be £300 if you want an invoice, or £250 cash in hand, no paperwork.”
This is someone offering to dodge VAT and tax, which means:
- You have zero legal recourse if the work fails
- No warranty
- No proof you’ve had the work done
- You’re potentially complicit in tax evasion
Protection: Always insist on an invoice. If they won’t provide one, walk away. That £50 “saving” will cost you thousands when the work fails and you have no comeback.
Warning Signs During the Job
Watch out for:
❌ Taking phone calls during work and discussing other jobs – Their mind isn’t on your car
❌ Constant trips back to their van – Suggests they don’t have the right tools/parts
❌ Won’t let you watch them work – What are they hiding?
❌ Can’t explain what they’re doing in terms you understand – Either they don’t know, or they’re bullshitting
❌ Keeps “discovering” additional problems – Could be genuine, could be a scam
❌ Won’t show you old parts – Did they actually replace anything?
✅ Explains what they’re doing and why
✅ Shows you problems on the car
✅ Cleans up as they go
✅ Protective covers over seats/mats
✅ Happy to answer questions
✅ Professional appearance and equipment
Finding a Good Mobile Mechanic: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Right, you’re convinced mobile mechanics are for you, and you know what to expect price-wise. Now: how do you actually find a good one?
Start With Recommendations
Ask around – Colleagues, neighbours, friends, family. Personal recommendations from people you trust are gold. Ask specifically:
- How long have they used them?
- What work has been done?
- Any problems? How were they resolved?
- Would they definitely use them again?
Local Facebook groups – Community groups are treasure troves of recommendations and warnings. Search the group history for “mobile mechanic” and see who gets repeatedly recommended.
Online reviews – Google Reviews, Trustpilot, Checkatrade, Yell. Look for:
- Overall rating (4.5+ stars ideal)
- Number of reviews (50+ more reliable than 5)
- Recent reviews (last 6 months)
- How they respond to negative reviews (professional? Defensive?)
- Specific details in positive reviews (suggests genuine customers)
Check Qualifications and Insurance
Before you book, verify they have:
Qualifications:
- City & Guilds in automotive repair (minimum Level 2, ideally Level 3)
- IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) certification
- Manufacturer-specific training (if they claim specialist knowledge)
- Gas Safe registration (if they work on LPG systems – different from home boilers!)
- EV/Hybrid certification (if working on electric/hybrid vehicles)
Insurance:
- Public liability (minimum £1 million, ideally £5 million) – Covers damage to your property
- Professional indemnity (£1-£2 million) – Covers their mistakes
- Tools insurance – Means they can replace stolen/damaged tools quickly
Don’t be shy about asking to see certificates. Any legitimate mechanic will happily show you. If they’re cagey about it, walk away.
Interview Them Before Booking
Treat the first phone call or message like an interview:
Good signs:
- ✅ Answers promptly and professionally
- ✅ Asks sensible questions about your car and the problem
- ✅ Gives you a rough price indication (even if it’s a range)
- ✅ Explains clearly what they’ll do
- ✅ Mentions what might affect the price
- ✅ Offers to call back at a specific time if they’re busy
Bad signs:
- ❌ Vague about pricing
- ❌ Pressure to book immediately
- ❌ Doesn’t ask questions about your car
- ❌ Can’t give you any idea of cost without seeing it (reasonable for diagnostic work, suspicious for straightforward jobs)
- ❌ Dismissive or condescending
- ❌ Can’t commit to a specific time/day
Start With Something Small
Don’t have a mobile mechanic you’ve never used before attempt a £600 clutch replacement as their first job for you. Start with something smaller:
- Oil change (£60-£100)
- Battery replacement (£100-£180)
- Diagnostic scan (£50-£90)
This lets you assess:
- Do they turn up on time?
- Is their van and equipment professional?
- Do they work cleanly and carefully?
- Do they explain what they’re doing?
- Is the final bill what was quoted?
- Are you happy with the work?
If you’re impressed, you’ve found your go-to mechanic. If not, you’ve only lost £100 rather than £600.
Using Platforms Like Trader Street
Online platforms connecting you with local mobile mechanics can be brilliant because:
✅ Pre-vetted professionals – They’ve already checked qualifications and insurance
✅ Reviews built in – You can see what other customers thought
✅ Price transparency – Compare multiple mechanics easily
✅ Booking convenience – Message multiple mechanics, get quotes, book—all in one place
✅ Dispute resolution – If something goes wrong, the platform can help mediate
How to use these platforms effectively:
- Be specific in your job description – Make, model, year, mileage, and detailed description of the problem
- Upload photos if relevant – Especially for visible issues
- Mention your location – Some mechanics have minimum distance requirements
- Ask questions before committing – Clarify exactly what’s included
- Check individual mechanic reviews – Not just the platform’s overall rating
- Compare several quotes – But remember cheapest isn’t always best
Trader Street’s advantage: No commission fees for mechanics means they can pass savings to you, and mechanics aren’t under pressure to rush jobs to cover platform fees. It’s a direct connection, which tends to result in better service and fairer pricing.
Negotiating Price (And When Not To)
Can you negotiate with mobile mechanics? Sometimes, yes. Should you? Depends.
When Negotiation Is Reasonable
✅ Multiple repairs – “I need brake pads and an oil change. Any discount for doing both?”
✅ Regular customer – After you’ve used them successfully a few times: “Any chance of a loyalty discount?”
✅ Quiet periods – “I’m flexible on timing. Any quieter days where you could do it cheaper?”
✅ Significant discrepancy – If one mechanic quotes £400 and two others quote £250, it’s fair to say: “I’ve got two other quotes around £250. Can you match that?”
When Negotiation Is Inappropriate
❌ They’re already the cheapest quote – Don’t try to squeeze them lower
❌ Emergency work – You’ve already got them out on a Sunday evening; negotiating now is taking the piss
❌ Complex/risky work – Don’t undervalue difficult jobs
❌ After work has started – Agree the price upfront or don’t proceed
❌ Skilled specialist work – EV diagnostics, performance tuning, etc. – you’re paying for expertise
The Right Way to Discuss Price
DON’T SAY: “That’s too expensive. I can get it cheaper elsewhere.”
DO SAY: “I’ve had a couple of other quotes around [price]. Is there any flexibility in your quote?”
DON’T SAY: “I’ll give you £200 cash for a £280 job.”
DO SAY: “What’s your best price for the work as discussed?”
Remember: Mechanics are running businesses and have families to feed. Trying to squeeze every last penny out of someone who’s about to lie under your car with tools in their hand probably isn’t wise anyway.
When Things Go Wrong: Your Rights and Options
Despite your best efforts, sometimes mobile mechanic jobs don’t go to plan. Here’s what to do if things go wrong.
If Work Is Unsatisfactory
Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, you have the right to:
✅ Work carried out with reasonable care and skill
✅ Work completed in a reasonable time
✅ Be charged a reasonable price (if not agreed upfront)
If the work doesn’t meet these standards:
Step 1: Contact them immediately – Don’t wait weeks to complain. Call them the same day if possible. Explain the issue calmly and specifically.
Step 2: Give them opportunity to fix it – By law, they get a chance to put things right. Most reputable mechanics will want to fix problems rather than lose reputation.
Step 3: Get it in writing – Email or text confirming:
- What the problem is
- What was agreed (work to be done, price)
- What’s gone wrong
- What you want (refund, repair, compensation)
Step 4: Get a second opinion – If they deny there’s a problem, pay another mechanic to inspect and document the issue. Keep the receipt.
Step 5: Formal complaint – If they won’t fix it or dispute there’s a problem:
- Small claims court (for amounts under £10,000 in England and Wales)
- Trading Standards (for fraud or dangerous work)
- Police (for fraud involving significant amounts)
If Additional Damage Occurred
If the mechanic damaged something while working (scratched your paintwork, cracked a component, split a hose), they should:
- Acknowledge it immediately – Hiding damage is a massive red flag
- Fix it at their cost – Either repair it or pay for repair elsewhere
- Use their insurance if it’s significant damage
If they deny responsibility: Photos from before the work started prove it wasn’t pre-existing. Always take “before” photos of your car, especially the working area.
If Work Fails Quickly
You’ve paid for new brake pads, but three weeks later they’re squealing terribly, or you’ve paid for a battery that’s died after two months.
Warranty period:
- Parts: Usually manufacturer’s warranty (6-12 months typical)
- Labour: Good mechanics offer 6-12 months warranty on their work
Contact them: “The [component] you fitted three weeks ago has failed. Under your warranty, can you check this?”
Most reputable mechanics will check it free of charge during warranty period and either:
- Replace faulty part under manufacturer warranty
- Redo work that was done incorrectly
- Explain if you’ve caused the problem (and show you evidence)
If they refuse: Small claims court can recover costs of having the work redone properly elsewhere.
Using Platforms for Dispute Resolution
If you found your mechanic through Trader Street or similar platforms:
✅ Report the issue through the platform – They often have dispute resolution processes
✅ Review honestly – Warning others helps the community
✅ Request platform intervention – Some platforms will mediate or enforce guarantees
Nuclear Options
Trading Standards – For serious issues like fraud, dangerous work, or systematic dodgy practices
Police – For actual fraud (taking money for work not done, fake parts, etc.)
Social media – Last resort, but a polite post in local groups asking “has anyone else had problems with [mechanic]?” can be powerful
Legal action – Small claims court for under £10,000. You’ll need evidence:
- Original quote/agreement
- Invoices and receipts
- Photos/video of problems
- Second mechanic’s opinion in writing
- All correspondence attempting to resolve
Seasonal Price Variations and When to Book
Mobile mechanic costs and availability vary significantly by season. Understanding this can save you money and hassle.
Winter (December-February)
Demand: VERY HIGH – Battery failures, starting problems, cold-weather issues
Availability: Booked up, especially for emergency call-outs
Prices: Expect 10-20% premium, especially for batteries (high demand + cold hands)
Best approach: Book non-urgent work in summer; keep jump leads and know your mechanic’s number
Common winter jobs:
- Battery testing and replacement (massive spike in demand)
- Glow plug replacement (diesel engines)
- Coolant/antifreeze checks
- Heating system repairs
- Tyre pressure checks (cold weather drops pressure)
Spring (March-May)
Demand: MODERATE – MOT season (many MOTs expire end of March)
Availability: Good, but late March is busy with pre-MOT work
Prices: Standard rates
Best approach: Book MOT for early/mid-month to avoid the rush
Common spring jobs:
- Pre-MOT inspections
- Post-MOT repairs
- Service and maintenance deferred from winter
- Brake work (ready for summer driving)
Summer (June-August)
Demand: LOWER – Fewer breakdowns, people on holiday
Availability: Best all year – mechanics actively looking for work
Prices: Sometimes negotiable, especially mid-week
Best approach: Book all non-urgent work now. Perfect for:
- Annual services
- Brake work
- Cambelt replacement
- Any major jobs you’ve been putting off
Common summer jobs:
- Services and routine maintenance
- AC regas (suddenly everyone remembers their AC doesn’t work)
- Holiday prep checks
- Timing belt replacements
Autumn (September-November)
Demand: MODERATE-HIGH – People preparing for winter
Availability: Getting busier as winter approaches
Prices: Standard, rising toward winter
Best approach: Get winter prep done in September, not November
Common autumn jobs:
- Brake pad replacements (wear becomes apparent)
- Battery health checks (replace before winter if weak)
- Coolant system checks
- Light bulb replacements (darker evenings)
- Tyre changes
Bank Holidays and Weekends
Prices: 25-50% premium over weekday rates
Availability: Limited – most mobile mechanics value their weekends
Emergency work: Premium rates, but mechanics who work bank holidays usually specialise in emergency work
Special Circumstances: When Costs Change
Certain situations affect mobile mechanic pricing significantly. Here’s what to expect.
Emergency Roadside Breakdown
You’ve broken down on the motorway hard shoulder, or you’re stuck at work with a car that won’t start, or you’re broken down outside the school gates.
Expect to pay:
- Emergency call-out: £100-£200+
- Hourly rate: Standard or higher
- Waiting time: If they’re stuck in traffic
- Awkward location charge: Roadside, no driveway, difficult access
Reality check: Emergency mobile mechanics are brilliant, but you’re paying for:
- Dropping everything to help you
- Travelling immediately (not batching jobs efficiently)
- Working in difficult/dangerous conditions
- Bringing extra equipment (jump packs, towing gear)
Alternatives: Breakdown cover (AA, RAC) often works out cheaper than paying emergency mobile mechanic rates multiple times.
Classic or Specialist Vehicles
Premium rates for:
- Classic cars (pre-1990s, especially British classics)
- Performance vehicles (tuned, modified, high-performance)
- Luxury vehicles (Jaguar, Mercedes, BMW, Audi)
- Electric and hybrid vehicles
- Exotic cars (anything Italian, basically)
Why?: These need:
- Specialist knowledge
- Unique diagnostic equipment
- Non-standard tools
- More expensive parts
- Extra care (you can’t just whack a 1965 MGB with a hammer)
- Expertise that’s taken years to develop
Costs: Add 20-50% to standard rates, sometimes more
Finding specialists: Don’t trust general mobile mechanics with your classic E-Type. Find specialists through:
- Classic car clubs
- Specialist forums
- Classic car shows and events
- Enthusiast Facebook groups
Fleet and Business Accounts
If you’re running a business with multiple vehicles:
Negotiated rates: Volume discounts (10-20% typical)
Contract pricing: Fixed monthly retainer for X hours
Priority service: Your calls get answered first
Scheduling: Regular servicing arranged in advance
Invoice accounts: 30-day payment terms rather than immediate payment
Typical arrangements: Small business with 5 vans might pay £1,200-£1,500/month for priority access + discounted rates. This beats paying emergency rates when a van breaks down at 3pm on a Friday.
Multiple Vehicle Households
Discount opportunities: “I need both cars serviced. Can you do them consecutively at a reduced rate?”
Most mobile mechanics will give 10-15% discount because:
- Only one call-out charge
- Only one trip
- They can batch the work efficiently
- Guaranteed back-to-back hours
Example: Two full services normally £150 each (£300 total) might become £270-£280 when done together.
The Bottom Line: Are Mobile Mechanics Worth It?
Let’s address the ultimate question: should you use mobile mechanics or stick with garages?
Use mobile mechanics when: ✅ You work from home or can be present during work
✅ The job is routine (service, brakes, battery, common repairs)
✅ Your time is valuable (saved 2-3 hours = worth paying £20-£40 extra)
✅ You’ve got young children (trying to keep them entertained in a garage waiting room = hell)
✅ You’re elderly or mobility-impaired (getting to a garage is difficult)
✅ You have multiple cars needing work
✅ You want to see exactly what’s being done
Use garages when: ✅ The job requires specialist equipment (wheel alignment, AC work, MOT)
✅ Major work needs doing (gearbox, engine work, extensive diagnostics)
✅ You’re claiming on warranty (some warranties require approved service centres)
✅ The work might take several days
✅ You need a courtesy car
✅ Your car is so modified/rare that general mobile mechanics won’t touch it
Our honest opinion: For most routine maintenance and common repairs, mobile mechanics are absolutely worth it. The convenience factor alone justifies the slightly higher cost (if there even is one). You’re not sitting in garage waiting rooms drinking terrible coffee, you’re not rearranging your day around garage opening hours, and you can actually watch the work being done.
But – and this is important – only if you find a good mobile mechanic. A dodgy mobile mechanic is worse than a dodgy garage because they’ve been to your home, they know where you live, and you’ve probably got limited recourse if things go wrong.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Mobile Mechanic
Right, we’ve covered everything: what mobile mechanics cost, how to know if you’re being ripped off, what they can and can’t do, how to find good ones, and when to use them.
Here’s your action plan:
- Ask around – Personal recommendations are gold
- Check qualifications and insurance – Don’t skip this
- Get three quotes – But not ten (that’s just annoying for everyone)
- Start small – Test them with an oil change before trusting them with major work
- Pay fair prices – Don’t be that person haggling over tenners
- Build a relationship – Finding a good mobile mechanic is like finding a good dentist or hairdresser – keep them
- Leave reviews – Help others find (or avoid) them
Using Trader Street: If you want to skip straight to finding vetted, reviewed, qualified mobile mechanics in your area, Trader Street connects you directly with local professionals. No hidden fees, transparent pricing, real reviews. Enter your postcode, describe what you need, get quotes, choose your mechanic. Job done.
The beauty of mobile mechanics is the convenience and transparency. You’re not dropping your car off and hoping for the best – you’re watching the work happen, asking questions, and seeing exactly what they do. That peace of mind is worth something.
So next time your car’s playing up, before you resign yourself to a day at the garage, give a mobile mechanic a call. Your car gets fixed, you save time, and you might just find your new go-to vehicle maintenance solution.
And remember: a good mobile mechanic is like a good plumber or electrician – once you find one, you keep hold of them. Treat them well (make them a cuppa, pay on time, don’t mess them about), and they’ll look after you and your car for years.
FAQs
Do mobile mechanics charge more than garages?
Not necessarily. Mobile mechanics have lower overheads (no premises costs), but charge call-out fees that garages don’t. For simple jobs, they’re often similar or cheaper. For complex work requiring specialist equipment, garages might be cheaper. The real value is the time you save.
Can I trust mobile mechanics as much as established garages?
If they’re properly qualified, insured, and have good reviews, absolutely. In fact, many mobile mechanics are ex-garage mechanics who’ve gone independent. The key is doing your due diligence: check qualifications, insurance, reviews, and start with small jobs.
What if something goes wrong after they’ve left?
Reputable mobile mechanics offer warranties (typically 6-12 months on parts and labour). Contact them immediately if there’s a problem – most will return and fix issues free of charge within warranty period. Get written warranties and always insist on invoices.
Do mobile mechanics work on all car makes?
Most handle common makes (Ford, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, etc.), but specialist vehicles (Mercedes, BMW, electric vehicles, classic cars) need specialist mobile mechanics with the right diagnostic equipment and training. Always ask if they’ve worked on your specific make/model before.
Can mobile mechanics service my car under warranty?
Yes, as long as they use correct parts and follow manufacturer service schedules. However, some manufacturer warranties require main dealer servicing. Check your warranty terms first. Most aftermarket warranties and insurance companies are fine with mobile mechanic servicing.
Is it safe to have work done on my driveway?
As long as the mobile mechanic has proper equipment (secure jacks, axle stands, safety gear), it’s perfectly safe. Reputable mobile mechanics carry professional-grade equipment. They should use wheel chocks, work on level ground, and follow safety procedures.
What payment methods do mobile mechanics accept?
Most accept cash, bank transfer, and card payments. Be wary of anyone who insists on cash only with no invoice – that’s a red flag for uninsured, unregistered operators. Always get a proper invoice for your protection.
How far will mobile mechanics travel?
Typically 15-20 mile radius from their base, though this varies. Beyond that, expect additional mileage charges (£0.45-£1.00 per mile). Rural mobile mechanics often cover larger areas. Always confirm travel costs upfront if you’re off the beaten track.
Can mobile mechanics work in apartment car parks?
Depends on the apartment building rules and the nature of the work. Simple jobs (battery replacement, diagnostics) are usually fine. Anything involving lifting the car, removing wheels, or extended time might not be permitted. Check with your building management first.
Do I need to be present while they work?
For insurance and access reasons, yes, you should be present or have someone there. You need to authorise any additional work, sign off on completion, and make payment. Plus, it’s your car – you should be able to watch and ask questions.