What is the work like?

Motor vehicle technicians service and repair cars, vans, motorbikes and larger vehicles like lorries and coaches. They work on all areas of vehicle mechanics and electrics, from the engine and exhaust systems to the air-conditioning and security features.

As a technician, your duties would include:

• finding and identifying faults
• advising customers if repairs are needed and how critical they are
• providing time and cost estimates for jobs
• carrying out repairs and replacing damaged parts
• fitting and servicing accessories like radios and alarms
• carrying out routine servicing and checks.

As vehicles become more sophisticated, you could specialise in repairing the technology used to control vehicle systems. For more details about this area of work, see the profile for Auto Electrician.

As an experienced technician, you could carry out MOT tests or convert traditional engines to liquid petroleum gas (LPG). You might also have the opportunity for work such as customising vehicles in line with owners' instructions.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

A common way into this career is through an apprenticeship in vehicle mechanics. To get onto a scheme, you may need GCSEs in maths, English and science, or equivalent qualifications. For more details, visit the Apprenticeships and Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) websites, or check manufacturers' websites direct.

• Apprenticeships
• Institute of the Motor Industry – Apprenticeships

Alternatively, you could take a college course in automotive engineering, to learn some of the skills needed for the job. Relevant courses include:

• City & Guilds Award and Certificate in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (3901/4101)
• BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Vehicle Technology
• BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Engineering (Automotive).

You should check with local colleges for their exact entry requirements.

You normally need a driving licence for the class of vehicle you work with. You would also be expected to have normal colour vision.

See the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) website for further information about careers and training.

What further training and development can I do?

The ever-changing technology in the car industry means it is vital that you continue to update your skills and knowledge throughout your career.

You could work towards an Automotive NVQ from levels 1 to 3. The NVQ has several options, including:

• Vehicle Maintenance and Repair (options in light or heavy vehicles, motorcycles, auto electrics, electronics and security)
• Vehicle Fitting Operations (tyres and general fitting)
• Vehicle Body and Paint Operations (body repair and refinishing)
• Roadside Assistance and Recovery.

As an experienced technician, you could take a City & Guilds Certificate in Advanced Automotive Diagnostic Techniques (4121) at Level 4.

Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) is a voluntary programme backed by the automotive industry that could improve your career prospects.

• Automotive Technician Accreditation

If you are working in motorsport, the NVQ in Performing Engineering Operations levels 1 and 2 contains units specifically for this role. Contact the Motorsport Industry Association for details about this sector.

• Motorsport Industry Association

MOT testing
With experience, you could train to become an MOT tester (known as a 'nominated tester') as long as you meet the following requirements:

• have at least four years' experience repairing the types of vehicle you wish to test
• are at least 20 years old and sponsored by your testing station
• have a full driving licence for the class/type of vehicle you wish to test
• have no 'unspent' convictions for criminal offences.

• NVQ Level 3 in Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
• City & Guilds Automotive Maintenance and Repair (4100/4101).

If you do not have a relevant qualification, you must pass the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) Nominated Tester Assessment exam. You must also complete a two-day VOSA training course, covering testing procedures and a practical demonstration test. For more details, contact VOSA.

• Vehicle and Operator Services Agency

Air-conditioning
EU legislation requires anyone installing or servicing air-conditioning units to have a qualification to carry out the work, such as:

• IMI Level 2 Vehicle Air Conditioning Technician award
• IMI Level 3 Diploma in Automotive Air Conditioning and Climate Control
• City & Guilds (5101) Level 3 Certificate in Mobile Air Conditioning Systems.

Contact the IMI and C&G for more information.

LPG conversions
There is increasing demand for engine conversions to Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG). To carry out conversions, you should be a qualified vehicle technician. Training centres will assess you before you start a course.

The trade association UKLPG operates the Approved Autogas Installer Scheme, which is recognised by the major LPG companies, the government and insurers, as the best indication of an installer’s competence to make conversions. Many insurers will not offer car insurance unless an approved installer has carried it out.

Visit the LPGA website for details about the scheme, LPG conversions and installer training providers.

• UKLPG

Top tip

Download and complete a Nital application form and return it to us staight away. We may be able to find you an apprenticeship position.