Free Level 3 Car Mechanic Course in Truro. Classes run at Truro College, full-time during the day. The course is free if you're 16 to 18 years old. You'll need a Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, plus Grade 4 GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths to join. The course runs for one year and focuses on automotive engineering, particularly light vehicle fault diagnosis. Around 60 percent of your time is classroom-based theory, with the remaining 40 percent in the workshop developing practical skills.
Who this course is for
The Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair is for any age of student that wishes to study Automotive Engineering, specifically light vehicle fault diagnosis. The course will be delivered on a full-time basis, with a mixture of theory and practical.
This Diploma prepares you for employment as a diagnostic technician in the fast paced and ever evolving world of the automotive industry. This course is split 60:40, classroom-based theory and workshop-based skills development and assessments and is for learners wanting to improve diagnostic ability and independent thinking in order to identify and rectify vehicle faults. This course is well known amongst the UK automotive industry. We have incredible training resources here at Truro College, enabling you to learn on some of the most up-to-date and cutting-edge equipment, fully preparing you for your career in the automotive industry.
Entry requirements
Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair, Grade 4 GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths.
What you will learn
You'll diagnose faults in light vehicle systems using industry-standard techniques.
You'll develop your understanding of engine management and electronic systems.
You'll carry out fault-finding procedures on braking, suspension, and steering systems.
You'll interpret technical data and vehicle diagnostic reports.
You'll apply health and safety practices in a workshop environment.
You'll develop skills in using diagnostic equipment and tools correctly.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of classroom-based theory and hands-on workshop sessions, split roughly 60:40. Theory sessions cover automotive engineering principles and diagnostic processes. Workshop sessions give you practical experience diagnosing and repairing light vehicles. Assessment is through a combination of practical tasks and written work completed throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Truro College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Diagnostic technician. Specialist fault diagnosis role at a main dealer or independent garage.
Light vehicle mechanic. Servicing and repair work across a range of cars and vans.
MOT tester. Carry out statutory vehicle safety inspections (requires DVSA authorisation).
Vehicle technician. Technical repair and maintenance at a franchised dealership.
Automotive service advisor. Customer-facing role using technical knowledge to support workshop operations.
What you could study next
Level 4 Certificate in Automotive Management. A step toward workshop management or service manager roles.
IMI Level 4 Award in Electric and Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement. Covers high-voltage vehicle systems, increasingly required as the industry shifts toward electric vehicles.
Manufacturer-specific training programmes. Many main dealers offer brand-accredited technician programmes once you hold a Level 3 qualification.
