Motor Vehicle

More about the course

Drive forward your career in the motor vehicle industry with this Level 3 Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair course. It is designed to help you further develop your learning to industry-standards and focuses on the fault diagnostic aspects required of a modern-day Motor Mechanic or Motor Vehicle Technician. You will have the opportunity to work on our new electrical vehicle training system, and take an active and leading role in industry placement to demonstrate your existing and developing knowledge and skills.

Entry requirements

You must have a Level 2 qualification in Vehicle Maintenance or industry experience
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English and Maths

Scottish equivalent

SCQF Level 5 qualification in Vehicle Maintenance or similar Level 5 qualification
4 National 5s at grade C and above, including English and Maths/Applications of Maths

You will also be invited to meet our teaching team before starting the course to participate in a diagnostic assessment which will ensure the course is the right fit for you.

What will I achieve?

Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs.

What will I learn?

Health and safety
Materials, fabrication, tools and measuring devices
Diagnosing and rectifying engine faults
Diagnosing and rectifying chassis system faults
Diagnosis and rectification of transmission and driveline faults
Diagnosing and rectifying auxiliary electrical faults
Customer service needs
Inspecting using prescribed methods
Overhauling transmission units

How is the course taught?

Practical sessions
Theory sessions
Independent study

How am I assessed?

Practical assessment and observations
Exams

Work experience opportunities

You will have an opportunity to spend a week with a local employer. Students have recently completed work placements at Mercedes-Benz.

You may also be able to get involved with employer projects. These projects are set and judged by local employers to help drive industry standards.

English and Maths

English and maths is embedded in the course to help you enhance your skills. The course will help you build on your skills in a practical setting and apply vocationally relevant English and maths skills.

Where can I progress?

Upon successful completion of this course you could progress into employment within the industry, an apprenticeship programme or progression into a higher education degree in automotive engineering and technology.

Course Costs

If you are aged 16-18 when you begin your course you are likely to be eligible for free tuition. Detailed information can be found within the financial support section.

If you are aged 19+ the cost of the course will depend on your circumstances. Our support pages can help you determine your suitability.

This course may be free or discounted if you meet certain criteria. Check our eligibility guide to find out more.

Call us: 01228 822 700

Email us: info@carlisle.ac.uk

Visit us Apply now

16 February 2026

Carlisle College Showcased on ITV Border for Innovative Partnership with Cumbria Police

Carlisle College was delighted to welcome ITV Border to campus this week as part of a special feature highlighting our successful partnership with Cumbria Police through the Cars for Colleges initiative.