Free Level 3 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Course in Portsmouth

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start8 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyInstitute of the Motor Industry awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles Course in Portsmouth. Classes run at COPC Highbury Campus, full-time during the day. This IMI light vehicle maintenance and repair principles qualification covers five mandatory units, including diagnosis and maintenance of complex automotive systems. You'll also complete Functional Skills in English, Maths, and ICT at the level required for the programme. The course takes one year. Entry requires either a Level 2 Certificate in a relevant subject, or GCSE grades A - C in English, Maths, and Science with a background in motor vehicle studies, plus an interview and assessment.

Who this course is for

The programme consists of five mandatory units (and three initial units if not in receipt of a Level 2 qualification) including diagnosis and maintenance of complex automotive systems.

As part of the programme students will also complete Functional Skills in English, Maths and ICT at the correct level for the programme.

Entry requirements

Students will need to have successfully completed the Level 2 Certificate in order to gain progression to the Level 3 Diploma, or are likely to achieve GCSE Grades A-C in English, Maths and Science with a basic background of motor vehicle studies attend a programme interview and complete an assessment.

What you will learn

  • You'll diagnose faults in complex automotive systems
  • You'll carry out maintenance procedures on light vehicles
  • You'll work with engine, transmission, and braking systems
  • You'll use diagnostic equipment and interpret results
  • You'll apply health and safety practices in an automotive workshop
  • You'll develop English, Maths, and ICT skills relevant to the automotive industry

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom and workshop environment at COPC Highbury Campus. The programme includes five mandatory units, plus three additional initial units if you don't hold a Level 2 qualification. Assessment is through practical tasks, written work, and unit-based assessments across the programme.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. COPC Highbury 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 safety inspections once licensed
  • Automotive diagnostic technician: identify faults using specialist equipment
  • Vehicle maintenance engineer: maintain fleets for companies or local authorities
  • Workshop technician: support senior mechanics in a busy workshop
  • Roadside assistance technician: diagnose and fix breakdowns on location

What you could study next

  • NVQ Level 3 in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair: the competency-based qualification many employers look for alongside the VRQ Diploma.
  • Level 4 qualifications in automotive management or advanced diagnostics: for those moving into supervisory or specialist roles.
  • Apprenticeship as a motor vehicle service and maintenance technician: combines on-the-job training with further qualifications at Level 3.

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