Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles Level 3
Start Date: 2nd September 2026
- Length 36 Weeks
- Study Full Time
- Location West Lancashire College
Qualification Gained
IMI Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
Levels ExplainedMore about the course
This qualification covers the technical needs of today’s motor vehicle repair industry, working on all types of light vehicles. It is an ideal course for anyone looking to be a vehicle technician or MOT tester. Challenge yourself in a practical working environment.
Covering all light vehicle technologies at an advanced level, learners will be expected to carry out practical diagnostic fault-finding tasks. As a practical-based course, it provides the essential knowledge to be a service technician working on cars and vans in all types of garages, dealerships, and maintenance depots.
There are also opportunities to undertake air-conditioning manual handling certification and potential to upskill to be able to work on EV and hybrid vehicles, to further enhance your employability.
Entry requirements
- This is a progression course.
What will I achieve?
If you successfully complete this course, students will be awarded with the Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles
What will I learn?
- Essential working practices and customer care
- Vehicle systems
- Vehicle electrics
- Fault diagnosis
- Vehicle science and maths
- Engine technology and diagnostics
- Ignition systems
- Petrol fuelling systems
- Diesel fuelling systems
- Transmission systems
- Steering, braking and suspension
- GCSE in English and Maths, depending on previous qualifications
What experience will I have?
- Guest speakers and industry specialist training with AA and VOSA
- Toyota Tour
- Cars supplied and replaced termly including Ford, Vauxhall, Toyota, Jaguar, plus Hybrid Vehicles
- The AA, Juratek Brakes, Snap On Tools, Textar Brakes
- Links with Lancashire Fire Service
- Halford voucher for discount tools
- Work experience and international trip for industry placement in Vienna
- Excellent progression to employment
- Progression to Apprenticeships
- Formula 1 pit crew challenge
- Students will experience first hand the adrenaline of racing on our driving stimulator, access to practice driving test theory questions, access to Hybrid, EV Kit and qualifications, F1 pit crew challenge, master classes from Valeo Ltd which include Hybrid and EV workshops
- University visits including Bolton University, UCLan and Edge Hill University
How am I assessed?
- Online exams
- Practical assessment
- Written assignments
Where can I progress?
Upon successful completion of the course, students may wish to progress to Entry in Employment, Higher Education including Degree Apprenticeship or an Apprenticeship.
Our students have gone into employment with:
- C&N Car Services
- Caber Mechanical Handling
- Premier Tyres
- Westgate Tyre & Service Centre Ltd
- AS Auto
- Mazda Bolton
- Premier Tyres
- A Davies Auto's Ltd
- Westgate Tyre & Service Centre Ltd
- CC Commercials
- Jaguar Land Rover
Course costs
If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees*.
If you are 19 or over, please call 01695 52300 or email enquiries@westlancs.ac.uk to confirm the fee for this course. Course costs may be subject to change.
If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact Student Services who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.
*This is subject to attendance.
Contact our team
Meet our Motor Vehicle students and tutors
Anthony Robinson
Advanced Technical LecturerI began my career in the motor industry at the age of 16, completing an apprenticeship before progressing to work as a Motor Vehicle Technician in both independent garages and main dealerships, including Honda, Toyota and Lexus. This extensive hands-on experience provided me with a strong technical foundation and a deep understanding of automotive diagnostics, repairs and emerging vehicle technologies.
James Gleave
Motor Vehicle LecturerI gained my Motor Vehicle qualifications at West Lancashire College and, throughout my career, have worked alongside BMW-trained Master Technicians, as well as independent Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen specialists. This industry experience has allowed me to develop extensive technical knowledge and practical skills, which I am passionate about sharing with the next generation of motor vehicle professionals.
Aaron
Motor Vehicle Alumni StudentAs a Motor Vehicle student, I particularly enjoyed the practical elements of the course, as they provided a hands-on learning experience and allowed me to develop valuable skills by working on a range of vehicles. The practical sessions helped build my confidence, knowledge, and understanding of the industry. My ambition was to own and run my own garage, applying the skills I had developed during my studies to build a successful career in the motor vehicle sector.
Oscar
Motor Vehicle Alumni StudentI chose to study Motor Vehicle because I have had a passion for cars since childhood. The course taught me more than I ever imagined, providing me with valuable knowledge and practical skills that helped me develop both personally and professionally. The tutors were exceptional, always encouraging and supporting me to be the best I could be. My dream is to become a Master Technician for Mercedes-Benz and build a successful career within the automotive industry.
What can I do with a qualification in Motor Vehicle?
Careers for this subject will be updated soon.
Motor Vehicle at West Lancashire College
News
Upcoming events
October Open Event
West Lancashire College
Monday 12th October 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm
November Open Event
West Lancashire College
Thursday 19th November 2026
4:30pm - 7:00pm
February Open Event
West Lancashire College
Monday 1st February 2027
4:30pm - 7:00pm
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