Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Macclesfield

CostFREE
Duration35 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Macclesfield. Classes run full-time at Macclesfield College, in a specialist Motor Vehicle Centre built to industry standards. The course runs over 35 weeks. It covers the technical knowledge needed for today's motor vehicle repair industry, including diagnosing system faults. You'll build on Level 2 knowledge and develop the practical skills employers look for. Entry normally requires an IMI Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, though relevant experience is also considered. This level 3 car mechanic qualification is awarded by IMI.

Who this course is for

This intermediate technical qualification covers the technical needs for today’s motor vehicle repair industry, including diagnosis of straightforward system faults. It builds on the under- pinning knowledge of Level 1/2 and prepares you to offer excellent skills for the workplace and the knowledge needed to progress. Practical sessions will take place at the Macclesfield College Motor Vehicle Centre which is a specialist facility commissioned to provide a modern and industry standard training environment.

Entry requirements

For this course you need to have achieved one of the following:

  • IMI Level 2 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
  • Applications from students without the traditional entry requirements but with relevant experience will also be considered.

On receipt of your application to study this course you will be invited to attend an admissions interview with a member of the teaching team to discuss the course and its requirements further.

What you will learn

  • You'll diagnose straightforward faults across vehicle systems.
  • You'll apply technical knowledge to light vehicle maintenance and repair.
  • You'll work with industry-standard tools and equipment in a specialist workshop.
  • You'll develop fault-finding techniques used in professional motor vehicle repair.
  • You'll build the underpinning knowledge needed to progress in the automotive trade.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions and hands-on practical work at the Macclesfield College Motor Vehicle Centre. The centre is equipped to industry standards, so you'll train in a realistic workshop environment. Assessment is through a combination of practical tasks and written or knowledge-based elements as required by the IMI qualification.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Light vehicle technician. Service and repair cars in a garage or dealership.
  • MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections.
  • Vehicle diagnostics technician. Identify and resolve complex electronic faults.
  • Service advisor. Liaise between customers and workshop teams.
  • Fleet maintenance technician. Keep company or public-sector vehicle fleets roadworthy.

What you could study next

  • IMI Level 4 Diploma in Vehicle Diagnostics. The next step for technicians specialising in advanced fault diagnosis and complex vehicle systems.
  • Manufacturer-specific training programmes. Many main dealers offer brand-accredited courses once you hold a Level 3 qualification.
  • Master Technician qualifications. Recognised by the automotive industry for senior technical roles.

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