Car maintenance

What will the course Cover?

The practical content of the course includes basic servicing, replacement of service parts, fault diagnosis, health & safety when working on vehicles/dangerous substances and minor repairs. The theory content will cover major vehicle systems like the engine, suspension and steering, tyres, brakes, electrics, types of insurance cover and how to buy secondhand cars. After 10 weeks you should have gained an increased knowledge and understanding of how cars work along with specific information of how to keep your own car in good working order as well as the language and confidence needed to deal more successfully with mechanics and the motor trade in general.

Who is this course for?

This course is for car owners who would like to reduce the cost of car ownership by gaining a better understanding of the modern motor vehicle and its systems. This hands-on course will enable you to get underneath the skin of the motor car and examine more closely the various systems and their components. You will learn how to carry out a variety of maintenance activities including servicing, checking condition of brake components and replacing other minor worn parts.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

No previous experience required except a keenness to get your hands dirty whilst getting to grips with the ‘nuts and bolts’ of car maintenance.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

Change engine oil, oil filter and spark plugs on a vehicle. Change a road wheel with confidence. Apply Health and Safety (‘HandS’) procedures whilst carrying out maintenance of own motor vehicle. Be able to inspect and assess the condition of front brake components and other basic servicing. You will also understand requirements for The M.O.T. test and be able to identify things to look out for when buying used vehicles.

How is the course organised?

The course is organised into weekly sessions which will include a mixture of practical workshop activities and demonstrations combined with individual projects. There will also be classroom based theory sessions mixed with group discussions on a variety of related subjects ranging from ‘cowboy’ garages, sat-navs, speed cameras, traffic wardens, parking fines, car auctions and many more, usually drawn from the group’s own experiences.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

Reading of class notes, handouts, car Workshop Manuals such as Haynes or AutoData, related magazines such as: Car Mechanics, Auto Express, What Car and Used Car Buyer, Practical Classics. Search on-line for information from sites like www.howstuffworks.com, www.wikipedia.com , www.carbible.com and various car forum websites. Visit car shows and exhibitions like the British Motor Show, Canary Wharf Expo, Classic Car Show, Race Car Live, Glorious Goodwood, etc.

How will my progress be assessed?

Verbal feedback from tutor of tasks carried out in the workshop, informal motor vehicle knowledge test, observation of practical tasks.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

Having completed the course, students may consider either Car Maintenance Intermediate or move on to an accredited course to take their learning further. Ask your tutor for further details, or look out for the information on our website.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Replacement parts for your own vehicle (may need to discuss with tutor first) and your car’s owners’ hand book or Haynes owners workshop manual. You will need boots or if preferred, stout leather shoes, (no trainers or ‘soft shoes’ will be allowed), and overalls/boiler suit or old street clothing. You will also need notepad, pencil and pen. Please note: If you’re intending to change engine oil please bring a suitable empty container with you to take the old oil away. We have no storage for old oil. Dispose of at your local recycling centre. As we have no storage room all vehicles and ancillary items including used engine oil and components must be removed at the end of each session.

What support is available?

Details of all available support can be found on our website (https://www.hfals.ac.uk/information-advice in the Guide and the Student Handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.