Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run full-time at Bishop Auckland College, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll develop advanced diagnostic skills, covering complex system faults, multi-step repairs, transmission systems, and hybrid and electric vehicle technology. Entry requires a Level 2 Maintenance and Repair qualification or equivalent, plus GCSE grade 4 or above in English and maths. This free car mechanic course for adults and school leavers includes work placements with local employers and enrichment visits to industry events.
Who this course is for
Working to high industry standards the Level 3 provides you with a range of skills including the diagnosis of complex system faults and advanced systems operation, advanced systems operation, multi-step diagnostic repair and transmission systems. Assessments will be through a combination of practical tasks on motor vehicles and rigs, online tests and written assignment. Students will also work within our new classroom dedicated to hybrid and electrical training as well as completing work placement opportunities with local employers.
Entry requirements
L2 Maintenance & Repair qualification or equivalent. GCSE Grade 4 or above in English and maths.
What you will learn
You'll diagnose complex faults across light vehicle engine, chassis, and transmission systems
You'll carry out multi-step diagnostic repairs using industry-standard methods
You'll inspect light vehicles using prescribed procedures
You'll diagnose and rectify auxiliary electrical faults
You'll work with hybrid and electric vehicle technology in a dedicated training classroom
You'll apply health and safety practices in an automotive workshop environment
You'll use materials, fabrication tools, and measuring devices correctly
You'll gain experience through work placements with local employers
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical work on motor vehicles and workshop rigs, alongside classroom sessions. Assessment combines five multiple choice examinations, practical workshop assessments, and written assignments. You'll also complete work placement opportunities with local employers, and take part in offsite industry visits including events at the NEC Birmingham and Porsche Dealership Teesside.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Light vehicle mechanic. Diagnose and repair cars in a garage or dealership
MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections
Automotive diagnostic technician. Specialise in fault-finding on complex systems
Hybrid and electric vehicle technician. Service and repair EV and hybrid cars
Service technician at a main dealership. Work to manufacturer standards on branded vehicles
Vehicle parts advisor. Support workshop teams with parts sourcing and supply
What you could study next
IMI Level 4 Award in Hybrid and Electric Vehicle System Repair. Deepen your expertise in EV and hybrid technology, which is increasingly in demand across the industry.
Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. A competency-based qualification that supports applications for an automotive technician role and industry recognition.
MOT Tester training. A short course required to become an authorised MOT tester, once you have relevant workshop experience.