Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Darlington – Darlington College

CostFREE
Duration34 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Darlington. Classes run at Darlington College, full-time during the day over 34 weeks. If you're 16 to 18 years old, the course may be free. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though funding may be available. Contact the college to find out where you stand. You'll cover the principles of light vehicle maintenance and repair, including the technical and diagnostic work that modern vehicle technicians carry out. You'll need at least two GCSEs at grade 3 or above in English and Maths to enrol.

Who this course is for

If you are interested in working with cars and vehicles, then this is the ideal course for you. This is usually referred to as technician training these days, because of the importance of technology and technical work (rather than simply mechanical) in maintaining and repairing vehicles. There are many areas you could work in within the sector. This is a fast moving, dynamic and exciting, often challenging sector to work in. It can be extremely rewarding. The motor trade employs more than half a million people in the UK alone. More than 40 companies manufacture vehicles in the UK, and motor sport is a huge area. Eight Formula One teams are UK based.

f you have completed previous motor vehicle studies at level 1 and level 2 certificate then this is a perfect qualification to move onto.

Entry requirements

You will need at least 2x GCSEs (or vocational equivalents) grade 3+ in English and Maths to enrol to this Level 2 course at Diploma stage.

All Adult learners must begin at Level 2 (therefore we are able to discuss entry criteria on an individual basis).

If you have not achieved a grade 4 or above in English or maths, you will as part of your course be required to work towards this as part of your study programme.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to inspect and diagnose faults in light vehicles
  • You'll study engine systems and how they operate
  • You'll learn about electrical and electronic vehicle systems
  • You'll understand transmission, steering, and suspension components
  • You'll develop skills in using diagnostic equipment and tools
  • You'll learn safe working practices in a workshop environment
  • You'll study the principles of vehicle repair and parts replacement

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom and workshop setting at Darlington College. Learning combines theory sessions with hands-on practical work on vehicles. Assessment includes written tests and practical assessments that check your ability to carry out maintenance and repair tasks. If you haven't yet achieved a grade 4 or above in English or Maths, you'll also work towards that as part of your study programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician: service and repair cars at a garage or dealership
  • MOT tester: carry out statutory vehicle safety checks
  • Service advisor: support customers and technicians at a dealership
  • Parts advisor: identify and supply vehicle parts
  • Fleet maintenance technician: keep company vehicles roadworthy
  • How to become a car mechanic: this qualification is a strong starting point

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair: the next step for vehicle technicians, covering advanced diagnostics and repair skills
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Vehicle Fitting: specialise in tyres, exhausts, and related fitting work
  • IMI Awards qualifications in electric and hybrid vehicle systems: as the motor trade moves toward electric vehicles, specialist training is increasingly valuable

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