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VRQ3 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

  • Start date:   August 2026
  • Level of Qualification:   SCQF Level 7
  • Course Type:   Full-time

VRQ3 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

Please note: This course is now full. If you apply, you will receive an email confirming that the course is full. Should a place become available, we will contact you, but we cannot guarantee this. Some courses still have availability- please check our website for the most up-to-date information on course availability. Alternatively, you can contact our Enquiries and Admissions team at choosecollege@west-lothian.ac.uk

This course gives you the opportunity to further develop your automotive skills and learn more of the technical skills and knowledge related to the industry. 

Start date – Aug 2026

End date –  Jun 2027

SCQF Level -  7

IMI Level - 3 

Mode – Full time

  • VRQ3 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIr

    What this course includes

    Here will be an opportunity to develop practical skills in a workshop environment, and develop knowledge and understanding of principles in the classroom.

    The course will give you the skills and knowledge in: 

    • Diagnosing and repairing chassis systems, engine systems, transmission systems and electrical systems 
    • Emerging technologies such as hybrid and electric vehicles, awareness, safe practice and routine maintenance when working with Electric and Hybrid vehicles - low and high voltage systems. 
    • Knowledge and understanding of Air Conditioning systems 
    • Health and safety 
    • Communication, information technology, problem solving, team-working and numeracy 
    • Work experience, placements, visits to industry and visits from experts 

    This course will also give you a more depth insight into the mechanical working surrounding these areas and the interaction between component parts and systems.

VRQ3 LIGHT VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

Why choose this course

You will gain qualification in air conditioning systems and electric hybrid vehicle repair, and will learn from experts in the field of motor vehicle- all who have experience working in commercial garages. 

As well as giving you a chance to enhance your practical skills in the workshop, this course also builds on these, helping you to better understand how things work and the various component involved in automotive engineering. 

This course covers some of the units needed for a full apprenticeship, giving you a head start and cutting down the time you need to spend in college when you progress into your apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

  • Completed the VRQ2 programme 
  • Those without the above qualification but with significant or relevant life experience are also encouraged to apply 
  • Minimum National 5 in Mathematics, English and Science 
  • Practical experience is preferred but not essential 

If English is not your first language, ESOL Level 5 is an entry requirement for this course. 

  • Where it leads

    Education: Successful candidates may progress to an apprenticeship in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair or to an HNC course in engineering or a similar subject area.

    Employment: You could gain employment in an entry level position within a motor vehicle garage including as a fast fit technician or gain an apprenticeship.

    Previous students have found employment with Halfords, Arnold Clark,  E&M Horsburgh,  and Eastern Western Motor Group, and  various independent garages.

Interview arrangements

If you are invited for interview, you will be required to undertake a short practical skills test and group interview. 

Interview Questions

  • What first got you interested in cars or mechanics, and how has that interest grown over time?
  • Do you have any experience working on vehicles—either your own, a family member’s, or through school projects? If so, tell us about it. 
  • What kinds of vehicles or automotive technologies do you find most interesting, and why?
  • What hobbies or activities do you enjoy that relate to problem-solving, building, or working with your hands?
  • Why do you want to study automotive mechanics, and what do you hope to do with your training in the future?

Fees, Finance and Funding

There may be help available to assist with your study related costs. Impartial, confidential help and advice on financial matters is available from the Student Funding Team - including Bursaries, Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA), Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Loans Company and student support funds. Click here to find out more.

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Take that next step in your career and apply for this course today. If the course is not yet open for applications, feel free to ask any questions by clicking make an enquiry.

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