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IMI Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair – Level 3

This Level 3 course is for those wishing to specialise in light vehicle maintenance and repair for a career in the motor industry or for those wanting to progress to university-level courses afterwards.

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Course Summary

Subject Area: Automotive Technologies
School Leaver - Vocational/Technical
Location:
Full Time or Part Time: FT
Level: 3
Number Of Years: 1
Interview Required?: Y
The Roundhouse

Apply now at: https://www.derby-college.ac.uk/course/imi-diploma-in-light-vehicle-maintenance-and-repair-level-3
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Course Information for Students

This Level 3 course is for those wishing to specialise in light vehicle maintenance and repair for a career in the motor industry or for those wanting to progress to university-level courses afterwards.

It is designed for school and college leavers who have already achieved grade C/4 or above in BOTH Maths and English and the Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair. This course also includes academic writing skills for those wishing to progress to university.

You must have achieved BOTH Maths and English GCSE at grade 4/C or above and obtained the full Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair.  Furthermore, successful students must submit a detailed application, complete an interview with one of the teaching team, and demonstrate a passion for automotive technology.

You will study:

  • Health and Safety
  • Tools, Equipment and Materials
  • G3 Skills in Supporting Job Roles
  • Diagnosing Engine Systems and Components
  • Diagnosing Chassis Systems and Components
  • Diagnosing Electrical Systems and Components
  • Diagnosing Transmission Systems and Components
  • Inspecting Light Vehicles Using Prescribed Methods
  • A minimum of 20 hours of work experience in a motor vehicle environment

This course will be delivered on-site.

Students must purchase and provide their own personal protective clothing. Coveralls and steel toe-capped boots should be worn at all times in the workshop. An Automotive Academy embroidered polo shirt must be worn and can be purchased during enrolment.

Underpinning knowledge will be assessed via online external tests and assignments for all units.  Practical activities are assessed in our centre using externally set criteria.  Technical comprehension and G3 job roles are assessed by written assignments and online exams.

After completing the IMI Level 3 Full Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology at DCG, students have several options to further their education and career:

1. Apprenticeships

  • Apply for advanced apprenticeships in the automotive industry to gain hands-on experience while continuing education.
  • Join manufacturer-specific apprenticeship programmes for brand-specific training.

2. Employment

  • Start working as an entry-level or intern automotive technician in garages, dealerships or repair shops.
  • Work as a service advisor, assisting customers with their vehicle maintenance and repair needs.

3. Higher Education

  • Pursue a Foundation Degree in Automotive Engineering or a related field.

4. Self-employment

  • Use the skills and knowledge you have gained to start your own vehicle maintenance and repair business.

These options provide a pathway for students to continue their education, gain practical experience, and advance their careers in the automotive industry.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk

Course Information for Employers

If you are an employer and would like to know more about the apprenticeships and professional training we deliver or how you can get involved in co-creating and co-delivering the curriculum, please contact us via email on businessenquiries@derby-college.ac.uk, call us on 01332 387 421 or visit our employer pages here.

Career Information

DCG Success Stories

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We encourage progress and aspirational outcomes by guiding people onto learning pathways that lead to positive destinations. Our students have gone on to achieve great things since leaving the College. We would like to share some of their inspiring success stories with you.

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Course Information Last Updated On: January 14, 2026 8:59 am