Course Level
Level 3
Duration
1 year FT
Placement
Opportunities available
Entry
September
Fees
View fees
In the UK, Level 3 qualifications account for 55% of all automotive certifications, indicating a strong preference for advanced training in the industry
The Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) forecasts a shortage of 13,310 qualified technicians by 2033, which could increase to 29,835 by 2035, highlighting the urgent need for skilled professionals
The Level 3 Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Repair course is designed for experienced technicians seeking to advance their skills. Building on the fundamentals of vehicle servicing, this advanced qualification focuses on diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing complex systems with confidence and efficiency.
Learners will tackle topics including engine management, electrical systems, braking, suspension, transmission and modern vehicle safety technologies. Training is highly practical, with hands-on use of diagnostic tools, interpreting fault codes and conducting detailed inspections, working to manufacturer specifications and strict health and safety standards.
Industry fact: Today’s cars have more lines of computer code than a jet fighter, making advanced diagnostic skills more valuable than ever.
At this level, technicians develop the expertise to perform advanced repairs, from component replacement and system recalibration to rigorous testing for performance and compliance. It sharpens professional skills such as managing workloads, communicating with customers and providing technical guidance so you are industry-ready and equipped for progression.
*On completion of this course, you will be awarded a Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair qualification.
Why choose this automotive college course?
- MASTER ADVANCED SKILLS – Go beyond the basics and learn how to diagnose, repair and recalibrate complex vehicle systems, from advanced electrics to modern safety tech
- BOOST YOUR EMPLOYABILITY – A Level 3 qualification is highly respected and can lead to roles with greater responsibility, higher pay, and the opportunity to specialise in areas such as hybrid or electric vehicles
- TRAIN IN NEW FACILITIES – Build your expertise in modern, fully equipped workshops with the same professional diagnostic tools and resources used across the industry
- LEAD AND PROGRESS - Develop the confidence to manage workloads, communicate with customers, and give technical advice - skills that prepare you for supervisory or master technician roles
Our facilities
Students on our automotive courses will learn in brand new real-world training environments under development at University College Birmingham. Our brand new automotive workshop at our Camden House campus will offer state-of-the-art facilities specifically designed to develop skills that support employers. These will include:
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Vehicle lifting and hoisting area
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Engine and transmission workstations
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Brake, suspension and steering zones
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Electrical and diagnostic testing bays
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Hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) area
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Tyre fitting and wheel balancing zone
Course breakdown
Topics you will study:
Health and safety in a vehicle workshop
Understand and apply health and safety legislation and practices in the workshop environment.
Vehicle maintenance and repair principles
Covers the theory behind vehicle systems and components, including maintenance principles.
Electrical and electronic systems
Learn about vehicle electrical circuits, wiring and fault diagnosis methods.
Engine management systems
Study engine control units (ECUs), sensors, actuators and emissions control.
Vehicle mechanical systems
Covers transmission, braking, suspension and steering systems.
Diagnosing and rectifying vehicle faults
Develop skills in identifying faults using diagnostic tools and resolving them effectively.
Vehicle safety systems
Study airbags, ABS, traction control and other advanced safety technologies.
Please note: Units/topics of study are subject to change
You will also have an individual study programme to help you build the skills and experience you need to progress onto higher education or gain employment.
Essentials you will need (also for parents and carers)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
One of the most important things on our automotive courses is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment and without the correct PPE, you cannot participate in practical activities - it's to keep you safe.
Firstly, all students must have steel toe capped boots, which you can buy once you have enrolled. These boots must be worn in all practical lessons.
Students on these courses must also have mechanics overalls.
Don't forget, you need to get your essential PPE bought and ready before your induction day.
Uniform, kit and tools
This course requires steel-toe boots, mechanic overalls, and tools, costing approximately £100*, depending on the items you purchase. Prices are subject to change each year – exact costs and information on how to order required items will be provided to you prior to enrolment.
Financial support with study costs (including PPE)
University College Birmingham offers a bursary scheme to help enrolled students cover costs, including:
- Kit (including PPE)
- Travel to college
- Uniform
- Other course materials
For more information, please visit our Financial Support for College Students page.
“The motor vehicle Level 3 course at University College Birmingham takes your skills to a professional standard. With over 55% of people in the sector holding this qualification, it’s one of the most respected routes into the industry. You’ll train in modern facilities, use advanced diagnostic tools and develop the expertise that sets you apart for higher-level roles and specialist careers.”
Entry requirements
Our lecturers are looking for students who are enthusiastic and passionate about the automotive sector, together with a keen determination to succeed in the sector, so please contact Admissions if you do not have the specific requirements outlined below.
If you are unsure if your qualification is equivalent or if you wish to check if you meet the entry requirements for this course, please call 0121 214 2919, email feadmissions@ucb.ac.uk or use our live chat.
Academic requirements
- A relevant Level 2 qualification in motor vehicle
- 4 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) including English (Language or Literature) and Maths, and a science, or equivalent
Work experience admissions pathway
2 years’ relevant automotive industry experience. Admission will be based on your interview performance alongside a reference stating the roles and responsibilities held during your period of employment.
Supporting documents required
- School applicants will be required to provide a good school report, which must include attendance. This will be assessed in conjunction with your qualifications and application during the confirmation of your place at University College Birmingham.
- If you are a school leaver (over 19), you will be required to provide a reference from a previous education provider or employer in support of your application.
Key information
Teaching and assessment
There will be a blend of practical and theoretical lessons – You’ll spend time in the workshop gaining hands-on experience with real vehicles, while also developing the technical knowledge in the classroom to understand how modern motor systems work. This combination ensures you not only know how to carry out repairs, but also why they’re needed, giving you the confidence to apply your learning in a professional garage environment.
Our teaching and assessment is underpinned by our Learning and Teaching Strategy 2025-2030.
Career opportunities
On completion of this course, students can progress onto a career in the field or an apprenticeship.
Note: Some roles below may require further study/training. The roles and salaries below are intended as a guide only.
Entry‑level/ apprentice mechanic
£12,000 – £18,000
Qualified vehicle mechanic/ technician
£24,000 – £30,000
Senior technician/ MOT tester
£32,000 – £42,000
Master technician
£40,000 – £50,000
Mobile/ self‑employed mechanic
£35,000 – £70,000+
Automotive at University College Birmingham
Discover more about our range of automotive college courses, including Level 2, Level 3, and a motorsports qualification.
Our courses will support you in entering the automotive sector, building your practical and theoretical skills.
