Level 3 in Light Vehicle Maintenance

Hull College

Queen's Gardens, Wilberforce Drive, Hull, HU1 3DG

Vocationally-related Qualification (VRQ)

Level 3

Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies

Available start dates

Tuesday, 01 September 2026

Cannon Street

1 Year(s)

Full time

Daytime/working hours

Course Summary

This course explores modern automotive systems in greater depth, including advanced engine operation, vehicle electrics and electronics, diagnostics, chassis technology, braking systems, and transmission components.

Learning is delivered through a mix of detailed classroom theory and practical workshop sessions. In theory lessons, you will investigate how complex vehicle systems function, how faults develop, and how diagnostic tools and data are used to identify and repair issues accurately. In the workshop, you will apply this knowledge through higher-level diagnostic tasks, system testing, component replacement, and problem-solving activities that mirror the expectations of a modern automotive technician.

Assessment is completed through a combination of online exams, written assignments, and practical tasks that test your diagnostic competence and technical understanding. By the end of the programme, you will have the confidence, skills, and knowledge required to progress into a higher-level apprenticeship, skilled employment in a professional workshop, or further technical study within the automotive sector.

Course Details

Course Highlights:

Develop advanced diagnostic and problem-solving skills
Work with modern vehicles, tools, and industry-standard diagnostic equipment
Deepen your understanding of complex engine, electrical, transmission, and braking systems
Gain hands-on experience performing high-level repairs and system tests
Learn how to interpret live vehicle data and diagnostic fault codes
Strengthen your theoretical knowledge through detailed classroom learning
Taught by experienced automotive technicians with up-to-date industry expertise
Prepare for skilled employment or a higher-level automotive apprenticeship
A strong blend of online exams, written assessments, and practical tasks

Course Units:

• Health, Safety and Good Housekeeping in the Automotive Environment

• Supporting Job Roles in the Automotive Work Environment

• Materials, Fabrication, Tools and Measuring Devices in the Automotive Environment

• Diagnosing and Rectifying Light Vehicle Combustion Engine and Component Faults

• Diagnosing and Rectifying Light Vehicle Chassis System Faults

• Diagnosing and Rectifying Auxiliary Electrical Faults

• Diagnosis and Rectification of Light Vehicle Transmission and Driveline Faults

• Carrying Out Non-High Voltage Operations On, Near or With an Electric Vehicle

Optional Unit (one chosen):

• Skills in Inspecting Light Vehicles Using Prescribed Methods

• Knowledge of Inspecting Light Vehicles Using Prescribed Methods

How will it be delivered and assessed?

This programme is delivered through a structured blend of classroom theory and practical workshop experience, with approximately 60% of your time spent in the classroom and 40% in the workshop. Classroom sessions focus on developing the advanced technical knowledge needed to diagnose complex vehicle faults, understand modern automotive systems, interpret diagnostic data, and apply the principles behind high-level repair work.

In the workshop, you will put this knowledge into practice through hands-on diagnostic tasks, system testing, component replacement, and real-world fault-finding activities using industry-standard tools and diagnostic equipment.

Assessment is completed through a mix of online exams, written coursework, and practical assessments, ensuring you demonstrate both a deep theoretical understanding and strong practical competence. This balanced structure prepares you for progression into skilled employment or a higher-level automotive apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

Completion of Level 2 Subject Specialist Qualification

Your next steps...

After successfully completing this course, you will be fully equipped to progress into a higher-level automotive apprenticeship, where you can continue developing your skills in a professional workshop while earning and gaining industry experience. You could also progress directly into skilled employment as a trainee technician, diagnostic technician, or service technician within dealerships, independent garages, or fast-fit centres. This course provides a strong platform for further study, including higher education options such as HNCs or HNDs in Automotive Engineering. Whatever pathway you choose, this course prepares you for a successful and rewarding career in the motor vehicle industry.

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