Free Level 3 Auto Electrics Course in Manchester

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Auto Electrics in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus, full-time during the day.

The course covers electrical systems used in modern vehicles. You'll study wiring, diagnostics, and mobile electrical installation. It follows IMI National Occupational Standards for auto electrical work. The course takes one year to complete.

You'll finish with an IMI Diploma in Auto Electrical and Mobile Electrical Principles.

Who this course is for

"This VRQ offers an ideal step to the Vocational Competence Qualification (VCQ) for those who are employed, and wish to continue with their studies, as the knowledge at L3 meets that of the related VCQ. This qualification also forms the knowledge component (technical certificate) of the IMI Sector Skills Council's Auto Electrical and Mobile Electrical Installation Advanced Apprenticeship framework. This learning programme is based upon IMI SSC’s National Occupational Standards for Auto Electrical and Mobile Electrical Installation. Be Amazing and join the 21st century industry of motor vehicle accident repair and prepare for technological innovation and advanced skill sets transferable to many Industries.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how vehicle electrical systems are designed and built.
  • You'll study wiring diagrams and circuit testing methods.
  • You'll develop skills in fault diagnosis on automotive electrical systems.
  • You'll learn about mobile electrical installation principles.
  • You'll understand how to work safely with vehicle electronics.
  • You'll study the knowledge needed for advanced auto electrical work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at the campus. Teaching covers the theory behind auto electrical systems. You'll work through units based on IMI National Occupational Standards. Assessment is through written tests and practical tasks that check your understanding of electrical principles.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College Openshaw Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Vehicle electrician, installs and repairs electrical systems in cars and vans.
  • Auto electrical technician, diagnoses faults on modern vehicle electronics.
  • Vehicle technician, services and repairs a range of vehicle systems.
  • Mobile electrical installer, fits electrical equipment to commercial vehicles.
  • Automotive diagnostic technician, uses specialist tools to find electrical faults.

What you could study next

  • IMI Level 3 Vocational Competence Qualification in Auto Electrical, the next step for those in employment wanting a full competence award.
  • Advanced Apprenticeship in Auto Electrical and Mobile Electrical Installation, combines this knowledge with on-the-job assessment.
  • Level 4 automotive qualifications, for those moving into senior technician or management roles.

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