Motor vehicle service and maintenance technician - light vehicle
Level 3 · AdvancedEngineering and manufacturing 3 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Light vehicle service and maintenance technicians service, maintain, and repair cars and light vans, working on mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic systems. Apprentices complete training aligned to the IMI standard, covering everything from brakes and engines to complex electronic fault finding. The qualification opens doors to manufacturer-specialist roles, MOT testing, or workshop management.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Engine, transmission, braking, and suspension systems
Electrical circuits and electronic fault diagnosis
Using manufacturer scan tools and diagnostic software
Service schedules and manufacturer repair procedures
MOT testing standards and vehicle safety inspection
Hybrid and electric vehicle awareness and safe working
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out scheduled services including oil, filters, and brakes
Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical faults
Use diagnostic tools to read and clear fault codes
Carry out MoT preparation checks and identify failures
Fit replacement parts and test vehicles after repair
Complete service records and explain work to customers
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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