Motor Vehicle Maintenance Level 1

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Kickstart your career in the automotive industry with the Level 1 Motor Vehicle Maintenance programme. Whether you are passionate about cars or looking to develop practical skills that can lead to an exciting future, this programme is designed to give you the perfect foundation. You will get hands-on experience in maintaining vehicles, learning the basics of car mechanics in a practical, engaging way. By the end of the programme, you will feel confident handling essential maintenance tasks, making you a great fit for further study or entry-level positions in the automotive sector. The programme is aimed at those just entering the automotive industry or progressing from Entry 3.

  • Description

    This engaging and motivating programme is generally aimed at learners 16-19 years old who have a keen interest to learn about maintenance associated with vehicles and machinery used in the automotive sector. You will develop your knowledge and skills in a mainly practical setting which will help you prepare for further studies in a variety of automotive industries or employment.

    The units cover a wide range of topics providing a comprehensive introduction to automotive maintenance and repair. Examples of topics that may be covered include:

    • Health and Safety in the Workplace
    • Tools, Equipment and Consumable Materials for Vehicle Maintenance
    • Engine Operation and Components
    • Lubrication System Components and Maintenance
    • Engine Cooling System Components and Maintenance
    • Spark Ignition System Components and Maintenance
    • Spark Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
    • Compression Ignition Engine Fuel System Components and Maintenance
    • Exhaust System Components and Maintenance
    • Steering System Components and Maintenance
    • Suspension System Components and Maintenance
    • Braking System Components and Maintenance
    • Wheel and Tyre Construction and Maintenance
    • Vehicle Transmission System Components and Maintenance
    • Vehicle Electrical Circuits and Components
  • Entry Requirements

    Students must have four GCSE passes at grade 3/D or above, to include Maths and English.

    This programme is ideal for beginners, so no prior automotive experience is required. What you will need is an interest in cars and how they work, a positive attitude towards learning practical skills, and a willingness to work both independently and as part of a team. Part-time work in the motor trade would be an advantage but is not essential.

  • Qualification

    IMI Level 1 Certificate in Automotive Maintenance

  • Progression

    Upon completion of the Level 1 programme, you will be ready to take the next step in your automotive career. Many learners progress to Level 2 or specialise further in areas such as light vehicle maintenance or mechanical repair. This qualification will also provide a strong foundation if you are interested in securing an apprenticeship or an entry-level job in the automotive sector.

  • Assessment

    You will be assessed through a combination of practical tasks, hands-on assessments, and written assignments. These assessments are designed to ensure that you understand the theoretical knowledge while also demonstrating your practical abilities in the workshop. Assignments are set on Microsoft Teams and will have an agreed submission date. In addition to portfolio work, some units may also include externally marked assessment material, sat under controlled conditions.

  • Home Study

    While most of the learning will take place in a practical workshop setting, some assignments and revision will need to be completed at home. You may be required to research topics covered in class, review workshop notes, and prepare for assessments. You are expected to allocate approximately 2 - 3 hours per a week on homework outside of normal class time.

  • Work Placement

    You will have the chance to participate in work experience where you can gain hands-on experience. You will also engage with inspiring speakers from the industry who will share insights about their roles and career paths. Additionally, you may have the opportunity to visit various workplaces to observe professionals in action.

  • Fees and Additional Costs

    If you are over 18 there will be a registration fee of £75.00 if you have not previously registered with the exam board. You will need to supply your own overalls and boots, pens, paper and ruler etc. There are also technical books required for the course. You are encouraged to purchase your own tools for use within the workshop. Funding for the course is age dependant.

Code Start Fees*
MVL1C 252601 September 2025 Fee Information

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* Terms and conditions apply. The fees stated on this website are for guidance purposes only and should be checked before enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, fees shown are for tuition only, over one academic year. Where a course is longer than one academic year, the fees stated are for the first year, and the cost of the second or subsequent years will be discussed at interview. For details of fee remission for students over 19 click here. If you think you may be entitled to a concession or fee remission, or you would like more information on the additional costs associated with your chosen course, please contact us on 01635 845000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Fee information

16 - 18 year olds

In most cases, students aged 16-18 on a full-time study programme (including T Levels) will not be required to pay fees, and the College will fund most course-specific equipment and materials. This excludes stationary, non-curriculum trips and a £15 College Subscription.

19 years and over

Students aged 19 years and over may be required to pay fees. Our Fees, Funding and Financial Support page has details on financial support, fee remissions and loans. Please note that some courses may have additional registration, examination and/or materials fees. Where we have been unable to provide these additional costs in this information, they will be discussed with you before enrolment.

Funded programmes

Where course fees are fully funded (for example Maths, English and Essential Digital Skills), the course is free of charge to students, subject to eligibility.

Skills Bootcamps

Skills Bootcamps are fully funded and free of charge to learners. Employers who want to use Skills Bootcamps to train their existing employees contribute to the cost of training. See the Fees and Additional Costs for more information.

Fee information

Skills Bootcamps

Skills Bootcamps are fully funded and free of charge to learners. Employers who want to use Skills Bootcamps to train their existing employees contribute to the cost of training. See the Fees and Additional Costs for more information.