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Vehicle Mechanic

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Primary Secondary Post-16

Vehicle mechanics are responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining cars, vans, and other vehicles. They work in garages, service centres, dealerships, and sometimes as mobile mechanics. Day-to-day tasks include inspecting vehicles, identifying faults using diagnostic equipment, replacing parts, and performing routine servicing such as oil changes and brake checks. Vehicle mechanics need a good understanding of how different vehicle systems work, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to use a range of tools and technology. Many mechanics specialise further, for example in electric vehicles or heavy goods vehicles. Training is often completed through apprenticeships or college courses, followed by on-the-job experience.

Vehicle Mechanic

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

Vehicle mechanics in the UK typically earn between £20,000 and £35,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

Job Openings

There are over 50,000 vehicle mechanics employed in the UK, with thousands of new positions advertised annually.

Apprenticeships

More than 3,000 new automotive apprenticeships start each year in the UK, providing a key entry route into the profession.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Motorcycle Mechanic

Specialises in servicing and repairing motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters, working in specialist garages or dealerships.

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Heavy Goods Vehicle Technician

Focuses on the maintenance and repair of large vehicles such as lorries, buses, and coaches, often working for transport companies or vehicle manufacturers.

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Auto Electrician

Expert in diagnosing and fixing electrical faults in vehicles, including wiring, lighting, and electronic control systems.

Gain Foundational Qualifications

Obtain GCSEs or Equivalent

Achieve passing grades in core subjects such as Maths, English, and Science at GCSE level or equivalent.

Most employers require at least GCSEs in Maths, English and Science. These subjects provide a foundation in numeracy, literacy and basic scientific principles, all important for understanding mechanical systems and technical manuals. If you do not have these qualifications, consider taking equivalent courses at a further education college.

Explore Technical Courses

Consider enrolling in a Level 2 or Level 3 Diploma in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair at a local college.

These diplomas provide hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of vehicle components, diagnostics and repair procedures. They are highly valued by employers and can be completed full-time or part-time. Research local colleges or training providers for course availability.

Start Practical Training

Apply for an Apprenticeship

Seek out apprenticeship opportunities with garages, dealerships or transport companies.

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom-based learning, allowing you to earn while you learn. They typically last 2 to 3 years and lead to recognised qualifications such as an NVQ or Level 3 Diploma. Use the UK Government's Find an Apprenticeship service or contact local employers directly.

Develop Core Skills

Practise essential skills such as using tools, reading technical diagrams and performing routine checks under supervision.

During your apprenticeship or training, focus on building your practical abilities. This includes learning how to use diagnostic equipment, understanding vehicle electronics, and practising safe working methods. Good communication and teamwork are also important as you will often work alongside other technicians.

Achieve Professional Status

Gain Industry Certification

Work towards professional accreditation such as the IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) or ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation).

Accreditation from recognised industry bodies demonstrates your competence and commitment to high standards. It can improve your job prospects and earning potential. Some employers may support you in gaining these qualifications after you complete your apprenticeship.

Pursue Specialisation

Consider specialising in areas such as diagnostics, hybrid vehicles or heavy goods vehicles.

As you gain experience, you may choose to focus on specific vehicle types or advanced technologies. Additional training and certification can help you become a specialist, which is often in high demand and may lead to higher pay or supervisory roles.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Vehicle Mechanic. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

🎓 View Apprenticeships

Career Progressions

No career progressions found for

Sample Qualifications

A Vehicle Mechanic and a Motor mechanic both focus on repairing and maintaining vehicles, typically including cars and light vehicles. They share similar technical skills and qualifications related to diagnosing faults, repairing engines, and ensuring vehicle safety and functionality.

How to become

You can get into this job through a college course or an apprenticeship.

College

You could take a college course before applying for a trainee motor mechanic role with a garage.

Relevant courses include:

  • light vehicle maintenance and repair
  • T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing

You could specialise in hybrid and electrical vehicles by doing a course like:

  • auto-electrical and mobile electrical operations
  • electric/hybrid vehicle system repair and replacement

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

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Apprenticeship

You could apply to do a Motor Vehicle Service and Maintenance Technician - Light Vehicle Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

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

You could also train as a vehicle mechanic in the British Army.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

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

More Information

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Career tips

It will help if you are interested in the motor industry and enjoy fixing cars. It can also be useful to have a knowledge of different makes and models.

Further information

You can find out more about working and training as a light vehicle technician from Autocity.

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