Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Northampton

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start31 Aug 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Car Mechanic Course in Northampton. Classes run at Northampton College, full-time during the day. You'll study vehicle mechanical maintenance and repair across classroom sessions and well-equipped workshops. The course runs for one year. You'll need four GCSEs at Grade 3 or above, including English or Maths, or a relevant Level 1 vehicle maintenance qualification. Theory is covered through assignments, phase tests, and online multiple-choice exams, with practical work assessed against set tasks. This level 2 car mechanic qualification is awarded by IMI.

Who this course is for

This course is designed to further extend the knowledge and ability of students wishing to continue their study in vehicle mechanical maintenance and repair. The course is taught in our well equipped workshops and classrooms, it will involve completion of theoretical study using classroom delivery, assignments, phase tests and on-line multi-choice exams. The practical sessions require you to satisfy practical assessment criteria using pre-set tasks with the results recorded in a practical task workbook.

This programme involves the maintenance and servicing of motor vehicles.

What will I study?

The units you will study are likely to include:

Core Units:

•Knowledge of routine light vehicle maintenance

•Knowledge of light vehicle engine mechanical, lubrication and cooling system units and components

•Knowledge of removing and replacing light vehicle electrical units and components

•Knowledge of removing and replacing light vehicle chassis units and components

•Knowledge of light transmission and driveline units and components

•Knowledge of light vehicle fuel, ignition, air and exhaust system units and components

•Health and safety

Entry requirements

Four GCSEs at Grade 3/D including English Language or Maths or Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Fitting Principles/Level 1 Vehicle Maintenance and Repair qualification plus GCSE English Language and Maths at Grades 3-1/D-G or Entry Level 3 in English and Maths.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of vehicle mechanical systems and how they work.
  • You'll carry out maintenance and repair tasks on light vehicles.
  • You'll complete practical assessments using pre-set workshop tasks.
  • You'll apply theoretical knowledge through classroom study and assignments.
  • You'll use diagnostic thinking to identify and address vehicle faults.
  • You'll record practical work accurately in line with assessment requirements.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom teaching and hands-on workshop sessions. Assessment includes written assignments, phase tests, and online multiple-choice exams. Practical skills are assessed against set tasks, with results recorded in a practical task workbook. Both your theoretical understanding and your ability to carry out vehicle maintenance work are assessed throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Northampton 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 inspections.
  • Light vehicle mechanic. Maintain and repair cars and vans.
  • Service advisor. Support customers and technicians at a workshop.
  • Fleet maintenance technician. Keep company vehicles roadworthy.

What you could study next

  • IMI Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology. The next step if you want to work toward a skilled technician role and develop more advanced diagnostic skills.
  • Level 3 Vehicle Technology qualification. Broadens your knowledge across electrical and electronic systems.
  • Apprenticeship in Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance. Combines work-based training with further study at Level 3.

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