Automotive Light Vehicle Service and Repair IMI Level 3 Diploma
Course level: 3
Course code: CP0180
07/09/2026
Is this course right for me?
Get on track for a career as a fully qualified vehicle repair technician with the Level 3 Diploma in Light Vehicle Service and Repair.
The course will further develop your knowledge of fault diagnosis and repair and advanced electrical systems in a motor vehicle, enabling you to carry out a wide range of repairs.
You will gain an appreciation of the importance of the day- to-day operation of a commercial garage and develop skills in customer service, as well as learning about the importance of health and safety in the workplace.
You will also attend classroom-based sessions to learn about the principles behind automotive systems and use your knowledge in a realistic working environment while servicing and repairing vehicles in our modern industry-standard workshop.
On completion of the course you will be able to apply for a job as a vehicle repair technician, pursue an advanced apprenticeship in the motor vehicle industry or progress to a higher level motor vehicle qualification.
We have a modern, well-equipped motor vehicle workshop where you will get the chance to use your practical skills by working on a range of different vehicles in a realistic working environment under the supervision of industry-qualified tutors.
Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to take part in a range of additional activities to enhance your learning such as industry visits, hearing from inspirational speakers, taking part in fundraising events and showcasing your skills in industry competitions.
*** Advanced Technology and Automotive Centre now open!***
You will train at the new purpose-built £8.1 million purpose-built Advanced Technology and Automotive Centre at the Wellington Road campus, in Bilston, which boasts a 12-bay automotive workshop, a drive-in electric vehicle lab containing simulated training boards, a four-wheel laser alignment machine, and ADAS and Bosch diagnostic equipment.
Course details
Entry Requirements:
For external applicants:
To access this course, you are required to:
- Level 2 automotive qualification OR
- Suitable industry experience
- All applicants will be required to attend an interview/assessment with a member of the college’s admissions team
- Have three or more GCSEs (including maths and English) at grade 4 or above
- You will also be expected to commit to good attendance and punctuality and demonstrate a commitment and good attitude to learning and achieving the previous qualification.
For internal progression learners (already studying with us):
Learners must be able to demonstrate that they:
- Have successfully completed a relevant course that naturally progresses onto this programme, achieving a good standard
- Have improved their English and maths grades since enrolment
- Have maintained good attendance and punctuality
- Show a consistently positive attitude to learning
What will I learn?
During the course you will study a range of modules from the following selection:
- Heated screen
- Electric window
- Brake light circuit
- Engine mechanical
- Poor start fault
- Braking systems ABS
- Customer needs
- Inspection
- Suspension fault
- Heavy steering
- Heater blower
- Health and safety
What skills will I gain?
By studying this course you will:
- Lean how electrical systems work in modern motor vehicles
- Identify and rectify complex vehicle faults
- Gain an appreciation of service receptionist roles such as customer service and ordering parts
- Discover the importance of time management and working to time scales
- Work as part of a team in a commercial environment
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course you will be assessed through observation in practical sessions, written assessments, assignments, research and online tests.
What can I do next?
Successful completion of the course will enable you to:
- Gain a job as a fully qualified vehicle repair technician
- Pursue an advanced apprenticeship in the automotive industry
- Progress to a Level 4 (higher education) Automotive Management qualification
- Start your own SMART repair business
Future careers
Undecided on your future?
Our Future Finder tool can help you explore options and match them to our courses. City of Wolverhampton College partners with employers and leading universities, ensuring our qualifications are relevant and designed to help you succeed.
Discover what life’s like at City of Wolverhampton College
New £61m campus developments
Our new four-storey campus in Wolverhampton city centre is the flagship of the council’s £61 million City Learning Quarter Vision.
State-of-the-art facilities
Study in purpose-built workshops with industry-standard equipment and commercial facilities, gaining real client experience. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, tech-equipped classrooms, and access to laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets—everything you need for success.