Motor mechanic

You could take a college course before applying for work as a trainee with a garage.

Relevant courses include:

• Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
• Level 3 Diploma in Vehicle Technology

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• funding advice
• search for courses

You can complete an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship as a motor vehicle service and maintenance technician.

This will usually take 2 to 3 years. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time at a college or training provider.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements
• guide to apprenticeships

Career tips

It will help if you have enthusiasm for the motor industry and repairing cars. A knowledge of different makes and models can also be useful.

Further information

You can find more details about working and training as a mechanic from Autocity.

You'll need:

• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• problem-solving skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• persistence and determination
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• customer service skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You may need a driving licence for some jobs.

As a motor mechanic, you'll:

• talk to customers about their vehicle's problems
• find and diagnose faults using hand tools or a computer
• advise customers on what repairs are needed
• estimate time and costs for jobs
• repair and replace faulty parts
• road test vehicles to check repairs
• carry out scheduled servicing and maintenance
• fit accessories like stereos and alarms
• check stock levels and parts
• update vehicle service records

You could work at a garage.

Your working environment may be noisy and dirty.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.