Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Manchester – The Manchester College Openshaw Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
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 Manchester. Classes run full-time at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus. The course builds on Level 2 automotive knowledge and takes one year to complete. You'll develop advanced skills in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing modern light vehicles. This level 3 car mechanic qualification covers the technical principles behind today's automotive systems, preparing you for skilled work in the automotive industry. A free car mechanic course for adults looking to advance in this field.

Who this course is for

Would you like to develop the skills you’ll need to work on modern, 21st century automotive vehicles and enjoy an exciting, challenging and successful career in this industry? If you said yes, then this Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles is the ideal course to continue your journey.

Building on the knowledge and understanding you’ve learnt on a previous Level 2 course, this diploma will help you advance your abilities even further and focus your skills on more specialist areas. Working both in the classroom and through practical workshop sessions, you’ll explore a range of engine management systems and component faults, dissect electrical auxiliary equipment and component faults, and learn how to repair issues with a chassis.

You’ll also further your experience and awareness of health and safety in the workshop and around the office, and develop a deeper understanding of the roles and responsibilities in each department of a dealership or garage. This will help you apply for a number of different positions in the future and engage effectively with prospective employers.

What you will learn

  • You'll diagnose faults in modern light vehicle systems using industry-standard methods.
  • You'll carry out maintenance and repair work on engines and mechanical components.
  • You'll inspect and service braking, steering, and suspension systems.
  • You'll work on electrical and electronic vehicle systems.
  • You'll interpret technical data, wiring diagrams, and manufacturer specifications.
  • You'll apply health and safety practices relevant to an automotive workshop.
  • You'll understand the principles behind modern vehicle technology and how systems interact.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom teaching and practical workshop sessions at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus. Assessment combines written assignments and practical assessments that test your ability to apply skills to real vehicle systems. You'll be assessed on your knowledge of maintenance and repair principles as well as your hands-on competence throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College Openshaw Campus 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 vehicle roadworthiness inspections (additional licence required).
  • Automotive diagnostic technician: identify complex faults using diagnostic equipment.
  • Vehicle service advisor: combine technical knowledge with customer-facing work.
  • Fleet maintenance technician: maintain vehicles for a company or organisation.
  • Breakdown recovery technician: diagnose and repair vehicles at the roadside.

What you could study next

  • IMI Level 4 Diploma in Automotive Management: moves into workshop management and leadership roles.
  • Electric and Hybrid Vehicle qualifications (IMI Level 2 or 3): essential as the industry shifts toward low-emission vehicles.
  • MOT Tester Authorisation: a separate requirement from DVSA if you want to carry out MOT tests professionally.
  • Apprenticeship at Level 3 or above: combine on-the-job experience with a formal qualification recognised by employers.

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