Automotive Maintenance

Automotive Maintenance
City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Vehicle Systems Maintenance
If you are motivated and wish to prepare yourself for a career in the automotive industry, then this is the course for you.
Is this course right for me?
This one year course is a practical subject, half of the course is based in our custom built workshops where you will develop your hands-on skills on a range of College vehicles and equipment, with the remainder of the time studying theory in our fully resourced classrooms.
What are the entry requirements?
- Two GCSEs at grade D or above (may include one relevant equivalent) to include Mathematics/Numeracy and Science
- Each application is considered on individual merit
- Entry is subject to attending a course information session or informal interview
Current student - what are the entry requirements?
- Successful completion of relevant programme (including skills) and decision from progression board meeting
What will I learn?
Mandatory units to be studied include:
- Vehicle Workshop Bench Skills – Understanding engineering drawings & using tools and equipment to manufacture components.
- Vehicle Wheels and Tyre Systems – Removing wheels, changing and balancing tyres, puncture repair and tyre inspection.
- Vehicle Braking Systems – Removing, inspecting and replacing brake pads & discs.
- Vehicle Steering and Suspension Systems – Removing, dismantling and inspecting suspension & steering components.
- Vehicle Electrical Systems – Removing & refitting starter motor and alternator, battery checks.
- Vehicle Spark Ignition Systems – Removing and testing ignition coil, identifying engine fault codes.
- Vehicle Fuel and Exhaust Systems – Removing & refitting fuel injectors, exhaust section & lambda sensor.
- Vehicle Engine Cooling Systems – Remove, test and refit thermostat, removing and testing cooling system electrical/electronic components.
- Vehicle Engine Lubrication Systems – Dismantling a static engine, identifying faults & reassembling.
- Vehicle Transmission Systems – Removing and refitting gearbox, clutch inspection.
Theory sessions will cover the background technology behind each system outlined above to gain a thorough understanding of each vehicle system.
The units have been developed to provide flexibility for these qualifications. Learners will develop their knowledge and skills in a mainly practical setting which will help them prepare for further studies in a variety of automotive industries or employment.
Will I need to study additional English & Maths skills?
- the course you are taking at College
- what grades you gained in your GCSE Maths and/or English Language
If you are studying a construction/trade course (brickwork, carpentry, electrical or plumbing):
- Essential Skills Wales (ESW) in Application of Number and Communications
All other courses:
- Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST) in upskilling / Lessons in Financial Education
- A one year GCSE resit course in required subject/s
- A one or two year pre-GCSE upskilling course
- A one year GCSE START upskilling course
Can I do this course in Welsh?
Learners have the option to complete course assessment/assignments or elements of the course through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. Visit our Welsh Language in the College page to find out what else is available to you.
How will I be assessed?
- Continuous assessment during the course
- Practical assessment during the course
- Online examination
What can I do next?
On successful completion, you can work towards the trade standard qualification Level 2 Diploma. If you gain an apprenticeship, you will be able to move smoothly into a Level 2 day release apprenticeship programme.
Following successful completion of this course learners could look to progress to a higher level course at the College, seek an appropriate Apprenticeship or go directly into employment.
Do I need to bring/buy any equipment?
- Stationery - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course
- Textbooks - you will be told about any specific items before you start the course, most textbooks are available to loan from the college library or online libraries
- Engineering flame retardant coveralls - £35
- Engineering safety boots - £14/£35
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Are there any additional costs?
- No tuition fee
- We are waiving the Administration Fee for the academic year 2025/26
- You will need to pay a £60 engineering workshop fee each year before you start the course
- You can rent a locker for £10 per year this will be refunded if the locker remains undamaged and keys are returned
- You may be eligible for funding. Find out more on our student finance page
Any costs above are approximate and may change.
Additional information
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Online Learning Elements? | Yes |
Sports Academy: While on this course you may be able to join our Sports Academy, if you have a talent for sport, find out what we offer on our Sports Academy page.