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. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though your costs may be covered depending on your situation. Contact Darlington College's Student Services team to find out where you stand. This car mechanic qualification covers the principles behind maintaining and repairing light vehicles, including the technology and technical skills that modern automotive work demands.

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.

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

Entry requirements

You require at least 4x GCSEs (or vocational equivalents) grade 2+ to study this course, including English and Maths. In addition, you require a Pass at Level 1 Vehicle Maintenance to move up to this Level 2 course (or an equivalent Automotive qualification).

We will request a school or college report to demonstrate your good attendance and engagement. Progressing students require good attendance & engagement within English and Maths lessons.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to inspect and diagnose faults in light vehicles.
  • You'll understand the systems that make up a modern car, including engine, transmission, and braking.
  • You'll develop skills in routine servicing and scheduled maintenance.
  • You'll learn how vehicle electrical and electronic systems work.
  • You'll study health and safety practices relevant to workshop environments.
  • You'll gain knowledge of the tools and equipment used in vehicle repair.
  • You'll understand how to interpret technical data and manufacturer specifications.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical workshop activity at Darlington College. Assessment is through a combination of written tests and practical assessments that check your understanding and hands-on skills. You'll be assessed on both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply it in a workshop setting.

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

  • Light vehicle technician. Service and repair cars in a garage or dealership.
  • MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
  • Service advisor. Support customers and coordinate workshop jobs.
  • Parts advisor. Source and supply vehicle components.
  • Fleet maintenance technician. Keep company vehicle fleets roadworthy.
  • Roadside assistance technician. Diagnose and fix breakdowns on location.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. The next step for those wanting to work as a fully qualified vehicle technician and take on more complex diagnostic work.
  • Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Vehicle Fitting. Broadens your skills into specialist fitting roles.
  • IMI Level 3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair. Valuable as electric vehicles become more common across the motor trade.

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