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AUR30620 | CRICOS: 103618J

Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

This practical course will put you on the path to becoming a qualified light vehicle mechanic.

Apply now
STUDY LOCATIONS Greater Brisbane Gold Coast Sunshine Coast Darling Downs and South West Wide Bay Burnett North Queensland
WAYS TO STUDY Apprenticeships and traineeships International
NEXT INTAKE Start date: 28 Jan 2025 Duration: 21 months View all intakes
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
International

This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

$22,500

Course overview

Practice and apply a broad range of skills in light vehicle mechanics with this practical course. This qualification will equip you with the skills required to become a qualified light vehicle mechanic.

According to the Australian Government's Job Outlook service, demand for qualified mechanics grew strongly over the past five years with employers finding it hard to fill vacancies. Job openings are expected to remain steady in the near future with around 23,000 job opening expected over the next five years. 

This course will give you the underpinning skills and knowledge to service and repair the mechanical parts of a motor vehicle such as the engine, transmission and suspension systems. You'll learn to discuss problems with vehicle owners to discover faults, carry out diagnostic procedures and repair and service a range of automotive systems including cooling systems, fuel systems, air conditioning and emission control systems, clutch assemblies, manual and automatic transmissions, braking systems, final drive assemblies and steering systems.

Our highly experienced team of industry-professionals work in partnership with some of the major automotive companies, so you know you will be learning current techniques using the latest technology.

Successful completion of this qualification will allow you to apply for recognition as a qualified light vehicle tradesperson.

What can I do?

  • Light Vehicle Mechanic

Course outcome:

AUR30620 Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

Trade skills assessment and gap training program

If you can demonstrate substantial competency in this qualification, you may be able to access funding for recognition of prior learning and gap training through the Trade Skills and Assessment Gap Training (TSAGT) program. TAFE Queensland is a proud recipient of funding from the Queensland Government, Department of Employment, Small Business and Training (DESBT) for this program. Only eligible participants may receive funding for eligible courses. Learn more about eligibility criteria.

Free apprenticeships for under 25s

The Queensland government is supporting young Queenslanders up to the age of 25 by providing access to fully subsidised training across a range of priority apprenticeship or traineeship qualifications. Learn more>

What you will study

The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 16 elective units from the list below.

International Students
The successful achievement of this qualification requires you to complete all core and 16 elective units from the list below. You will also be required to undertake 400 hours of vocational placement in an approved setting. 

  • UNIT CODE
  • UNIT NAME

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURAEA002
    Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURAEA002
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the performance outcomes required to follow environmental and sustainability best practices, including complying with established workplace procedures and environmental regulations as well as following sustainability practices that may reduce the environmental impact of work practices and outputs. It applies to those working in the automotive industry. No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow environmental and sustainability best practice in an automotive workplace

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURASA102
    Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURASA102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to identify and follow safety and emergency procedures in an automotive workplace.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Follow safe working practices in an automotive workplace

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR112
    Test and repair basic electrical circuits
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR112
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect, test and repair basic electrical circuits in vehicle and machinery electrical systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Test and repair basic electrical circuits

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR123
    Diagnose and repair spark ignition engine management systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR123
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the spark ignition engine management systems of vehicles, vessels or machinery.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair spark ignition engine management systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR125
    Test, charge and replace batteries and jump-start vehicles
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR125
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to test, charge, replace, retest and secure a range of automotive batteries, including vehicle or machinery jump-starting procedures.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Test, charge and replace batteries and jump-start vehicles

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR129
    Diagnose and repair charging systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR129
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair charging systems. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair charging systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR130
    Diagnose and repair starting systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR130
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair starting systems. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair starting systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURETR131
    Diagnose and repair ignition systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURETR131
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the ignition systems of vehicles, vessels or machinery.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair ignition systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURLTB103
    Diagnose and repair light vehicle hydraulic braking systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURLTB103
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the hydraulic braking systems of light vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair light vehicle hydraulic braking systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURLTD104
    Diagnose and repair light vehicle steering systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURLTD104
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair light vehicle steering systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair light vehicle steering systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURLTD105
    Diagnose and repair light vehicle suspension systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURLTD105
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair light vehicle suspension systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair light vehicle suspension systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURLTE102
    Diagnose and repair light vehicle engines
    UNIT CODE :
    AURLTE102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the spark ignition engines and compression ignition engines of light vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair light vehicle engines

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURLTZ101
    Diagnose and repair light vehicle emission control systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURLTZ101
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the emission control systems of light vehicles.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair light vehicle emission control systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTA104
    Carry out servicing operations
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTA104
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out servicing operations.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Carry out servicing operations

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTA118
    Develop and carry out diagnostic test strategies
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTA118
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to develop and carry out a diagnostic testing strategy on vehicles, vessels or machinery.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Develop and carry out diagnostic test strategies

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTB101
    Inspect and service braking systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTB101
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and service braking systems according to manufacturer specifications.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service braking systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTC103
    Diagnose and repair cooling systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTC103
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to diagnose and repair faults in the cooling systems of vehicles. The systems used vary based on the work context.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Diagnose and repair cooling systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTE104
    Inspect and service engines
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTE104
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and service engines.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service engines

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTF101
    Inspect and service petrol fuel systems
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTF101
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to inspect and service vehicle petrol fuel systems.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Inspect and service petrol fuel systems

  • UNIT CODE
  • AURTTK102
    Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace
    UNIT CODE :
    AURTTK102
    Unit description :
    This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to select, use, maintain and store tools and equipment in an automotive workplace.
  • UNIT NAME
  • Use and maintain tools and equipment in an automotive workplace

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Acacia Ridge
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Alexandra Hills
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Bracken Ridge
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Ipswich
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Ashmore
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Nambour
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Warwick
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Toowoomba
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Dalby
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Kingaroy
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Bundaberg
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Hervey Bay
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

CAMPUS APPRENTICESHIP / TRAINEESHIPS DELIVERY MODE
Bowen
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Mount Isa
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Cairns
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Innisfail
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Whitsundays - Cannonvale
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

Townsville - Trade Training Centre Bohle
Apprenticeship
  • WORKPLACE

    Workplace

  • DROP IN DAYS

    Drop in days

  • BLOCK TRAINING

    Block training

  • DAY RELEASE

    Day release

  • MOBILE VAN

    Mobile van

  • Online

    Online

  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
  • You'll learn face to face with a teacher in a classroom or simulated workplace environment. You may access learning materials through our online learning management system Connect. Learn more

  • demo View comparison chart
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Acacia Ridge
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
21 months
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Acacia Ridge

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

21 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Acacia Ridge
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
21 months
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Acacia Ridge

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

21 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
CAMPUS STUDY MODE START DATE DURATION WORKLOAD WHAT YOU'LL PAY
Bundaberg
On Campus
28 Jan 2025
15 months
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Bundaberg

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

28 Jan 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

15 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Bundaberg
On Campus
14 Jul 2025
15 months
Full time 3 days per week
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

demo

Bundaberg

On Campus

  • Online Time

    How much of the course will be delivered online. 

    0%
  • On Campus Time
    100%
START DATE

The date the course starts. Apply early as intakes fill up quickly. 

14 Jul 2025
DURATION

The total length of time it takes to complete the course.

15 months
Workload

The average amount of time students will need to allocate to study each week.

Full time 3 days per week
WHAT YOU'LL PAY
  • International: $22,500

    This is the total course fee for international students. Learn more

Class format

Some courses include classes at scheduled times while others can be completed in your own time.

Teacher-led, Scheduled
VIRTUAL CLASS

Scheduled online classes using video conferencing software (such as Zoom).

No
ASSESSMENT

The primary location assessments will take place. Some courses also require vocational placement.

On-Campus and vocational placement
TEACHER COMMS

The different ways you can contact your teacher throughout the course.

  • Phone, Email, Face-to-face, Zoom
Payment Options

How can I pay for this course?

No matter what your circumstances, TAFE Queensland has a payment option to suit you. If you are unsure of what’s right for you, get in touch. We’re here to help. 

Payment plan

If you have difficulty paying for the full cost of a course upfront, you may be eligible for a payment plan.

Learn more
Upfront payment

This may be the full fee for the course, or the student contribution amount if you are eligible for a subsidy or concession.

Learn more
International student payment

Our preferred payment method is telegraphic transfer or credit card using Convera Global Pay for Students or the Flywire Payment Portal. Convera and Flywire both allow you to complete your payment in your own currency using a telegraphic transfer with no processing fees or delays.
Learn more

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course.

Selection criteria

Domestic students
To study an apprenticeship program you must be indentured as an apprentice with your employer.

Employers need to be able to provide the necessary human and physical resources to qualify for an apprentice.

Find out more on how to become an apprentice or trainee


International students
The following selection criteria requirements apply only to International students:

  • English Language Proficiency: Academic IELTS 6.0 (no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent - For a list of all English Language tests accepted by TAFE Queensland International.
  • Academic Requirements: Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent). Non school-leavers must have relevant work experience or qualification that indicates likely success of course completion. For more information on the international education achievement levels equivalent to Year 10 and 12.

Applicants should be a minimum of 17 years of age and turning 18 during the first year of study with TAFE Queensland. International students who are under 18 years of age and are applying for a student visa are required by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs to have adequate welfare arrangements in place.

Resources required

You are responsible for meeting the minimum occupational health and safety requirements in practical classes.
This includes the use of:

  • clear safety glasses to AS 1336 or 1337
  • protective footwear with safety toe cap and non-slip soles to AS2210
  • mechanic gloves
  • ear plugs or muffs
  • You should also wear 100% cotton drill industry-standard protective clothing

If you fail to meet these minimum standards of dress, you will not be permitted entry into practical classes.

You will be provided with a recommended reading list and/or required textbooks after enrolment, during orientation or at the start of each unit. The purchase of these resources may incur additional costs, or you may be able to borrow them from the TAFE Queensland library network.

You are also required to have access to and bring personal stationary, a USB, and a calculator.

Placement

International Students
If you are not currently employed in industry, during your course you will be required to complete vocational placement so you can start practising your new skills in a real-world environment. You’ll be required to work shifts determined by your placement provider, and these can include early mornings or late nights, any day of the week, including public holidays. TAFE Queensland may be able to assist in arranging suitable placements.

Completing placement is compulsory, and you will be expected to manage family and work commitments in order to complete your shifts. You are required to complete 400 hours of placement to satisfy this component of your qualification.

Important information

International important information

You may be required to hold a valid driver's licence to study this course.

Assessment methods

Skill and knowledge assessments are an essential step in progressing through your course. You may be assessed in a number of ways while you are studying at TAFE Queensland, including observation, written assessment, questioning, portfolios, work samples, third-party feedback, and through recognition of prior learning. Read more about assessment methods.

Pathways

University pathways

If you want to go on to further study at university, TAFE Queensland has a pathway option to get you there. In many cases, completing one of our diplomas may give you a full year of credit towards a degree with one of our partner universities.

Learn more about University Pathways

  • James Cook University
  • Southern Cross University
  • University of Canberra
  • Griffith University
  • Queensland University of Technology
  • University of Southern Queensland

How to apply

Direct application

If you're ready to get started, simply hit the Apply Now button on your preferred course information page and get your application underway online. 

For International students

International students can either apply directly through our TAFE Queensland International Application portal, or through one of our education agents. Our registered agents can assist you with your visa application and guide you through the enrolment process. If you are from this list of countries, you will need to apply through an agent.
Learn more

Course disclaimer

All information was accurate at time of publication, however TAFE policies, tuition fees and course content is subject to change without notice. Course commencement is dependent on sufficient enrolment numbers. Timetable information is subject to change prior to commencement and/or during the duration of your course.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL) and credit transfers

Fast track your way to a formal qualification by earning credit for the things you already know. We can assess your skills, directly apply credits from previous successful study, and give you advanced standing in your course.

Learn more