Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Canterbury. Classes run at Canterbury College, full-time during the day over 44 weeks. The course is free if you are under 18 years old. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply. This car mechanic qualification builds on Level 2 skills, taking you deeper into diagnosing faults, repairing vehicle systems, and working with hybrid and electric vehicle technologies. You'll train in a purpose-built automotive garage using professional tools and equipment. Modules cover engine systems, chassis dynamics, advanced diagnostics, and health and safety.
Who this course is for
Explore the theoretical and practical skills needed to pursue a career in the automotive industry. This course is perfect for those who want to work in main dealerships as technicians, or those wanting to train as master technicians.
What you will learn
You'll diagnose complex mechanical and electrical faults in light vehicles.
You'll inspect and repair engine and performance systems.
You'll work on chassis systems and vehicle dynamics.
You'll use professional diagnostic tools including OBD scanners and vehicle lifts.
You'll apply advanced tool skills and maintenance techniques.
You'll develop knowledge of hybrid and electric vehicle technologies.
You'll follow health and safety practices in an automotive workshop environment.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of practical workshop sessions and classroom theory at Canterbury College. Training takes place in a purpose-built automotive garage where you'll work on real vehicles using industry-standard tools. Expert tutors guide you through both the technical theory and hands-on practical elements. Assessment is through a combination of practical tasks and written work throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Canterbury College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Vehicle technician. Diagnose and repair cars in a garage or dealership.
Main dealership technician. Service and repair vehicles to manufacturer standards.
Master technician. Advanced fault diagnosis across a wide range of vehicles.
MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
Hybrid and electric vehicle technician. Specialist work on EV and hybrid systems.
Fleet maintenance technician. Keep commercial or company vehicle fleets roadworthy.
What you could study next
NVQ Level 3 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. The work-based route that leads to a CSCS-equivalent automotive card and is recognised by many employers for skilled technician roles.
Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Automotive Diagnostics. A step toward master technician status, covering complex electronic and diagnostic systems.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Automotive Engineering. University-level study for those moving into engineering or management roles in the automotive sector.
