Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Hastings. Classes run at East Sussex College Group Hastings, full-time during the day. The course takes one year and builds on Level 2 skills. You'll need to have completed a Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, or have significant hands-on industry experience. You'll also need GCSE English or Maths at grade 4. The course covers fault diagnosis and rectification across engine, chassis, transmission, and electrical systems. It also includes electric and hybrid vehicles, plus an introduction to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Assessment is 40% practical, 30% coursework, and 30% exams.
Who this course is for
This industry-recognised City & Guilds accredited qualification is aimed at learners that have already completed the Level 2 Diploma or experienced mechanics looking to upskill. You will expand your skills and knowledge in Diagnosis and Rectification of Light Vehicle Engine Systems, Chassis Systems, Transmission and Driveline Systems and Auxiliary Electrical Systems. This course includes an introduction to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Knowledge of Carrying Out Non-High Voltage Operations On, Near or With an Electric Vehicle. Successful learners will have all the skills and knowledge to enter the automotive industry as a vehicle technician, progress onto MOT tester training or apply for a Motor Sports Degree.Course entry requirements: Minimum of GCSEs grade 4 in English and Maths, and Completion of Level 2 Diploma, or significant demonstratable industry experience.
Entry requirements
Successful completion of the Level 2 course and GCSE English or maths at grade 4.
What you will learn
You'll diagnose and rectify faults in light vehicle engine systems.
You'll work on chassis systems, including suspension and braking.
You'll service and repair transmission and driveline systems.
You'll fault-find and repair auxiliary electrical systems.
You'll learn the principles of working on electric and hybrid vehicles.
You'll gain an introduction to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
You'll develop skills in carrying out non-high voltage operations on electric vehicles.
How you will learn
You'll learn through hands-on practical work in the workshop alongside classroom sessions. Assessment is made up of 40% practical, 30% coursework, and 30% exams. You'll work on real vehicle systems throughout the course, building your diagnostic and repair skills progressively.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to provide your own safety boots and overalls. East Sussex College Group Hastings 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.
MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
Auto electrician. Specialise in vehicle electrical and electronic systems.
Electric vehicle technician. Service and repair electric and hybrid cars.
Diagnostic technician. Use specialist equipment to identify faults.
Service advisor. Customer-facing role in a dealership or workshop.
What you could study next
MOT tester training. A natural next step if you want to carry out statutory vehicle inspections.
Level 4 Vehicle Diagnostic Technician qualification. Deepens your diagnostic skills for complex faults across modern vehicles.
Motor Sport or Automotive Engineering degree. The provider notes this qualification can support a university application in this field.
