Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time at Suffolk New College, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll study the principles of light vehicle maintenance and repair, covering how engines, braking systems, and electrical systems work. To start, you'll need three GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, including maths and/or English, or a Level 1 qualification with maths and/or English at Level 1.

Who this course is for

Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses

Entry requirements

Three GCSEs at Grade 3 including maths and/or English, or a Level 1 qualification plus maths and/or English at Level 1.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how petrol and diesel engines work and how to identify faults.
  • You'll study vehicle braking systems, including disc and drum brakes.
  • You'll learn about steering and suspension systems and how they affect vehicle handling.
  • You'll understand how vehicle electrical and electronic systems operate.
  • You'll study transmission systems, including manual and automatic gearboxes.
  • You'll learn how to carry out routine vehicle checks and servicing tasks safely.
  • You'll understand health and safety practices in a workshop environment.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical workshop activity at Suffolk New College. Assessment includes written tests and practical assessments that check your understanding of vehicle systems and repair principles. You'll build knowledge through a mix of theory lessons and hands-on tasks in the workshop.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle technician: carry out servicing and repairs in a garage or dealership.
  • MOT tester: inspect vehicles and issue MOT certificates (requires further licensing).
  • Automotive parts advisor: identify and supply the right parts to mechanics.
  • Fleet maintenance assistant: keep company vehicles roadworthy and serviced.
  • Tyre and exhaust technician: specialist fitting and replacement work.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology (City and Guilds) - the next step for those wanting to work as a qualified vehicle technician.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Vehicle Diagnostics - for learners who want to specialise in fault-finding on modern vehicles.
  • IMI Level 3 Award in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement - growing demand for EV-qualified technicians makes this a strong option after Level 3.

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