Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich – Suffolk New College

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyCity & Guilds awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time at Suffolk New College, five days a week during the day. To join, you'll need a Level 2 Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (Light Vehicle) qualification, plus a pass in maths and/or English at Grade 4. The course takes one year and covers the principles of light vehicle maintenance and repair at an advanced level. This level 3 car mechanic qualification is awarded by City and Guilds.

Who this course is for

Please see view the course at http://www.suffolk.ac.uk/courses

Entry requirements

Level 2 Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (Light Vehicle) qualification including a pass in maths and/or English at Grade 4.

What you will learn

  • You'll diagnose faults in light vehicle engines and mechanical systems.
  • You'll carry out servicing and repair work on brakes, steering, and suspension.
  • You'll inspect and repair electrical and electronic vehicle systems.
  • You'll work with transmission and drivetrain components.
  • You'll apply health and safety procedures in an automotive workshop.
  • You'll interpret technical data, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer specifications.
  • You'll use diagnostic equipment to identify and resolve vehicle faults.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and practical workshop activity at Suffolk New College. Assessment includes written tests, practical tasks, and assignments that cover both the theory and hands-on elements of light vehicle maintenance and repair. You'll be assessed on your ability to carry out repairs and diagnose faults to industry standards.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Suffolk New College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Car mechanic. Servicing and repairing light vehicles at a garage.
  • Vehicle technician. Diagnosing and fixing faults for a dealership or independent workshop.
  • MOT tester. Carrying out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
  • Automotive service advisor. Advising customers and coordinating workshop jobs.
  • Fleet technician. Maintaining vehicles for a company or local authority fleet.
  • Auto electrician. Specialising in vehicle electrical and electronic systems.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Automotive Engineering. A step up into engineering principles and management for those aiming toward senior technical or supervisory roles.
  • NVQ Level 3 in Vehicle Fitting. Useful if you want to specialise in tyres, exhausts, or fast-fit work.
  • Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) professional registration. Recognised by employers as a mark of competence for qualified vehicle technicians.

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