12 Best Free Online Automotive Courses to Take in 2025

The roar of an engine, the intricacies of a transmission, and the silent power of an electric motor make the automotive world a fascinating field. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast looking to save on repairs, a hobbyist restoring a classic, or an aspiring technician aiming to launch a career, your journey starts with solid knowledge. Fortunately, high-quality training no longer requires expensive tuition fees, thanks to a wealth of accessible online resources.

This guide steers you directly to the 12 best free online automotive courses available today. We move beyond a simple list to provide practical insights into what each platform offers, who it's best for, and the real-world skills you can expect to develop. You'll find detailed breakdowns, screenshots, and direct links to help you select the right training for your specific goals.

From foundational principles of engine operation to the complex systems of modern electric vehicles, these courses provide the tools you need to get your hands dirty with confidence. We’ve done the research so you can find a program that fits your needs and start learning immediately, all without spending a dime. Let's get started.

1. DENSO Technic E-Learning

DENSO Technic E-Learning offers a robust platform ideal for those seeking professional-grade, free online automotive courses. As a major OEM supplier, DENSO provides in-depth technical knowledge straight from the source, focusing on the specific components and systems they manufacture. This makes it an invaluable resource for technicians wanting to master systems like air conditioning, engine management, and vehicle electronics. Registration is completely free and grants immediate access to their entire catalog.

The platform stands out by offering official certificates upon successful course completion, a significant advantage for professionals looking to enhance their credentials. Each module is self-paced and includes interactive quizzes to test your understanding, ensuring you retain the information.

Platform Breakdown

To get the most out of DENSO's platform, start with foundational courses before moving to more complex diagnostics. While the content is highly detailed, it assumes some baseline knowledge, making it slightly less beginner-friendly than other options.

Pros:

• Comprehensive, OEM-level technical detail
• Recognized certificates add professional value
• Completely free and self-paced learning

Cons:

• Can be challenging for absolute beginners
• No direct interaction with instructors

Website: DENSO Technic E-Learning

2. Alison – Car Mechanic Training

Alison offers a comprehensive "Car Mechanic Training" course that serves as an excellent entry point for aspiring mechanics or DIYers. This free online automotive course is structured to provide a solid foundation, covering everything from fundamental vehicle components and engine systems to basic maintenance and diagnostic procedures. It's an ideal choice for those who are just starting their journey in the automotive world and want a structured, easy-to-follow curriculum. Registration is free, giving you full access to the course materials.

The platform's main advantage is its accessibility and beginner-friendly approach. Upon completion, you have the option to purchase a CPD (Continuing Professional Development) accredited certificate, which can be a valuable addition to a resume. The self-paced nature of the course allows learners to study at their own convenience, making it perfect for those with busy schedules.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize your learning, take notes during each module and complete the end-of-module assessments to gauge your understanding. While the course is thorough for beginners, it doesn't delve into the highly specialized or advanced topics that experienced technicians might seek.

Pros:

• Excellent foundational course for beginners
• Flexible, self-paced learning schedule
• Option for a recognized CPD-accredited certificate

Cons:

• Lacks advanced topics for seasoned professionals
• Certificates must be purchased
• Minimal interactive elements or hands-on simulation

Website: Alison – Car Mechanic Training

3. Skills4Automotive

Skills4Automotive acts as a specialized curator, gathering high-quality, free online automotive courses from top universities and institutions across Europe. Instead of producing its own content, it provides a centralized hub for learning, with a strong focus on future-facing topics like e-mobility, autonomous driving, and sustainable energy systems. This makes it an exceptional resource for anyone looking to upskill or reskill for the modern automotive industry. Access to the platform and its curated list of courses is completely free.

The platform stands out by bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs. It directs learners to courses from reputable sources, ensuring the educational content is both current and credible. This approach allows users to explore a diverse range of advanced subjects without having to sift through countless university websites themselves.

Platform Breakdown

To use Skills4Automotive effectively, browse their catalog and be prepared to register on the external university or institution platform hosting the course. Think of it as a specialized, expert-vetted search engine for advanced automotive education.

Pros:

• Access to high-quality, university-level content
• Strong focus on emerging automotive technologies
• Diverse range of topics from different expert sources

Cons:

• Acts as a directory, requiring registration on third-party sites
• Certificate availability and cost depend on the external provider

Website: Skills4Automotive

4. Alison – Car Restoration Guide

For enthusiasts passionate about bringing classic cars back to life, Alison offers a specialized "Car Restoration Guide" course. This program is one of the few free online automotive courses focusing specifically on the art and science of vehicle refurbishment. It covers essential techniques for restoring car interiors, exteriors, and mechanical components, making it a perfect starting point for hobbyists or aspiring restoration specialists. The course is entirely free to access after a simple registration process.

What makes this platform unique is its CPD (Continuing Professional Development) accreditation, offering a formal certificate upon completion. While the course materials are free, the official certificate requires a fee. The self-paced structure allows you to learn according to your own schedule, which is ideal for a project-based skill like car restoration.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize your learning, use this course as a theoretical foundation while working on a personal project. The content provides the "what" and "why," but hands-on practice is crucial for mastering the skills.

Pros:

• Specialized focus on car restoration
• CPD-accredited certification adds value
• Completely self-paced and flexible

Cons:

• Official certificate is not free
• Lacks interactive simulations or instructor feedback

Website: Alison - Car Restoration Guide

5. SC Training – Free Online Automotive Courses with Certificates

SC Training, powered by SafetyCulture, provides a modern and accessible library of free online automotive courses geared toward both individual upskilling and team training. The platform covers essential topics like electric vehicle safety, diesel engine fundamentals, and automotive electrical systems, making it a versatile resource. It is particularly well-suited for businesses looking to implement standardized training for their technicians, as well as for beginners seeking foundational knowledge. Registration is free and unlocks the full course catalog.

A key advantage of SC Training is its mobile-first design, allowing learners to complete modules on any device, anytime. The platform also issues free certificates upon completion, which helps professionals document their learning and add new skills to their resumes. The courses are designed to be concise and easy to digest, which is perfect for busy schedules.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize the platform's value, explore course collections relevant to your specific career path. While the content is broad, it serves best as an introduction or a refresher rather than a deep dive into highly advanced diagnostics.

Pros:

• Mobile-friendly for flexible, on-the-go learning
• Recognized certificates for professional development
• Broad topic range suitable for beginners and teams

Cons:

• Lacks highly advanced or specialized technical topics
• Minimal interactive elements or hands-on simulations

Website: SC Training

6. ASE Education Foundation – E-Learning Resources

The ASE Education Foundation offers foundational e-learning resources primarily designed for automotive students and instructors. Their standout offering, the "Introduction to Automobile Service" program, is one of the best free online automotive courses for those just starting their journey. As the educational arm of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), the content provides a trusted and industry-recognized pathway into the automotive field. Access is completely free, making it an excellent starting point for aspiring technicians.

The platform’s strength lies in its structured, beginner-focused curriculum that covers essential entry-level tasks. Upon completion, students can print a certificate, which holds significant weight due to its affiliation with ASE. This makes it a valuable asset for anyone looking to build a resume or apply for an apprenticeship.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize the benefits, users should complete the modules in the suggested order to build a solid knowledge base. While it lacks advanced diagnostics, it perfectly prepares learners for more specialized training.

Pros:

• Ideal for beginners with no prior experience
• Backed by the industry-recognized ASE standard
• Completely free and provides a valuable certificate

Cons:

• Limited advanced or specialized topics
• Course format has minimal interactive elements

Website: ASE Education Foundation – E-Learning Resources

7. Cursa – Fundamentals of Automotive Engineering

For those seeking a broad introduction to the core concepts of vehicle mechanics, Cursa provides an excellent starting point. This platform offers a free online automotive course titled "Fundamentals of Automotive Engineering," designed to give beginners a solid grasp of essential systems. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including engines, camshafts, turbochargers, electrical systems, and brakes, making it a well-rounded primer for anyone new to the field.

Cursa's key advantage is its accessibility and the provision of a free digital certificate upon completion, which is a great motivator for learners. The platform is entirely self-paced and mobile-friendly, allowing you to learn whenever and wherever it is convenient. While it doesn't delve into highly advanced diagnostics, its foundational approach is perfect for aspiring technicians or DIYers building their initial knowledge base.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize your learning, treat this course as a gateway. Use it to identify which automotive systems you find most interesting before committing to more specialized, in-depth training from other providers on this list.

Pros:

• Ideal foundational course for complete beginners
• Recognized digital certificate adds value at no cost
• Flexible, self-paced learning on a mobile-friendly app

Cons:

• Lacks advanced diagnostic and repair topics
• Course content has minimal interactive elements

Website: Cursa – Fundamentals of Automotive Engineering

8. Alison – Diploma in Automotive Systems Training

Alison offers one of the more structured and comprehensive free online automotive courses available, the "Diploma in Automotive Systems Training." This course is designed for individuals who want to move beyond basic concepts and gain a deeper, more academic understanding of vehicle systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including diagnostics, maintenance, and repair, making it a powerful resource for aspiring technicians or dedicated enthusiasts who want a solid theoretical foundation.

The platform's main draw is its diploma-level certification, which is CPD (Continuing Professional Development) accredited. While the course content is free to access after signing up, obtaining the official digital or physical diploma requires a fee. This model allows you to learn everything for free and only pay if you need the formal credential for your resume or professional portfolio.

Platform Breakdown

For the best experience, treat this like a formal course by taking notes and completing all modules in order. Since it's light on hands-on guidance, supplementing the theory with practical videos or real-world application is highly recommended.

Pros:

• In-depth, structured curriculum suitable for serious learners
• Recognized CPD-accredited diploma adds value
• Completely free to access all course materials

Cons:

• Certification is not free
• Lacks interactive elements and practical, hands-on labs

Website: Alison – Diploma in Automotive Systems Training

9. Cursa – Car Maintenance Lessons

Cursa offers a practical, no-frills approach to learning essential vehicle care through its free online automotive courses. This platform is perfect for car owners and beginners who want to build a solid foundation in basic maintenance and simple repairs without any financial commitment. The course focuses on everyday tasks like changing brake pads, performing basic troubleshooting, and understanding how to improve fuel economy, making it immediately useful for the average driver. Registration is simple and provides full access to the course content.

The platform's key advantage is its accessibility and the inclusion of a free digital certificate upon completion. While many platforms offer courses, Cursa provides a tangible credential at no cost, which is a great incentive for learners. The self-paced, mobile-friendly design ensures you can learn whenever and wherever it suits you.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize your learning on Cursa, treat the course as a hands-on guide. As you complete a module on a specific task, try to locate the corresponding parts on your own vehicle to build practical knowledge. The content is straightforward and designed for easy consumption.

Pros:

• Excellent starting point for complete beginners
• Free digital certificate adds value to your learning
• Flexible and mobile-friendly for learning on the go

Cons:

• Lacks advanced or specialized automotive topics
• Course interaction is minimal

Website: Cursa – Car Maintenance Lessons

10. Udemy – Automotive Electrical Systems and Components Technology

Udemy hosts a specific, free online automotive course that provides a fantastic introduction to automotive electrical systems. This course, "Automotive Electrical Systems and Components Technology," is designed for beginners and focuses on foundational components like the ignition system, starter, alternator, sensors, and actuators. While Udemy is a broad platform with many paid courses, this particular offering grants free access to all its video lectures and learning materials upon simple registration.

The platform's key advantage is its accessibility and user-friendly interface, which works seamlessly on both desktop and mobile devices. This makes it easy to learn on the go. While the core content is free, it's important to note that obtaining a formal certificate of completion typically requires a fee. This structure makes it ideal for those prioritizing knowledge acquisition over formal credentials.

Platform Breakdown

For the best experience, learners should treat this course as a gateway to more complex topics. Its straightforward, video-based lessons are perfect for building a solid understanding before tackling more advanced diagnostic challenges.

Pros:

• Excellent entry point for beginners with no prior knowledge
• Flexible, self-paced schedule fits any lifestyle
• Access to a large community of learners for support

Cons:

• A certificate of completion usually costs extra
• Limited interactive elements or direct instructor feedback

Website: Udemy – Automotive Electrical Systems and Components Technology

11. Great Learning – Introduction to Electric Vehicles

Great Learning offers an excellent entry point into the future of automotive technology with its "Introduction to Electric Vehicles" course. This program is specifically designed for beginners, providing a foundational understanding of EV components, battery systems, and charging infrastructure. It’s a perfect starting point for anyone curious about the shift to electric power without the intimidation of highly technical jargon, making it one of the most accessible free online automotive courses for this specialization.

The platform provides a certificate upon completion, which is a great way to formally recognize your new knowledge. Beyond basic mechanics, consider expanding your expertise into specialized areas like electric vehicles, where understanding the evolving field of e-mobility is becoming increasingly vital for career growth. This course serves as an ideal first step into that larger world.

Platform Breakdown

To maximize your learning, take notes on the core components and their functions. The course is structured to build knowledge sequentially, so completing modules in order is recommended for the best comprehension.

Pros:

• Highly accessible for complete beginners
• Recognized certificate adds value to a resume
• Flexible, self-paced learning schedule fits any lifestyle

Cons:

• Lacks advanced topics for experienced technicians
• Minimal interactive elements or hands-on simulation

Website: Great Learning – Introduction to Electric Vehicles

12. Our Virtual Academy – Free Online Automotive Courses Trial

Our Virtual Academy offers a glimpse into high-level automotive training with its free trial, making it a great option for experienced technicians looking to explore advanced topics. While not a fully free platform, the trial provides valuable, professional-grade content on specialized subjects like hybrid vehicle diagnostics. It’s an excellent way to test-drive their comprehensive training modules, which are known for their depth and interactive elements, before committing to a paid subscription.

The platform’s strength lies in its focus on modern vehicle technology, particularly hybrids and EVs. The trial course on hybrid diagnostics, including leak-off tests, provides immediately applicable skills. This approach allows users to sample some of their premium free online automotive courses and assess if the teaching style and content quality meet their professional development needs.

Platform Breakdown

To make the most of the trial, focus entirely on completing the available hybrid module to gain a new, specific skill. This platform is less for general knowledge and more for targeted, high-level upskilling.

Pros:

• Access to highly specialized, professional-level content
• Interactive learning experience engages users effectively
• Excellent way to "try before you buy" a premium subscription

Cons:

• Only a limited trial course is free
• Full course catalog is behind a paywall

Website: Our Virtual Academy – Free Online Automotive Courses Trial

Comparison of 12 Free Online Automotive Courses

Driving Your Knowledge Forward: What's Next on Your Learning Journey?

You now have a comprehensive roadmap to some of the most valuable free online automotive courses available today. We've navigated a diverse landscape of learning opportunities, from the foundational mechanics offered by platforms like Alison to the specialized, manufacturer-grade diagnostics from DENSO and the forward-looking EV insights from Great Learning. The journey from novice to knowledgeable technician, or even just a more confident car owner, doesn't require a hefty financial investment; it requires commitment and a strategic approach to learning.

The key takeaway is that the right educational resource is entirely dependent on your specific goal. There is no single "best" course, only the best course for you. By breaking down the options, from comprehensive diplomas to quick-start maintenance lessons, you can now align your learning path with your career aspirations or personal projects.

How to Choose Your Next Turn

Making a decision can feel overwhelming with so many options. Let's distill the process into actionable steps based on common needs. This framework will help you select the most effective starting point from the resources we've detailed.

• For the Absolute Beginner: If you're starting with zero experience, prioritize foundational knowledge. Begin with Alison’s Car Mechanic Training or Cursa’s Car Maintenance Lessons. These courses are designed to build your confidence with core concepts and basic safety procedures before you tackle more complex topics.
• For the Aspiring Professional Technician: To build a career-focused skill set, look for structured, in-depth programs. Combining DENSO Technic E-Learning for diagnostics with the ASE Education Foundation's resources provides a powerful, industry-aligned curriculum. Supplement this with Alison’s Diploma in Automotive Systems Training to gain a credential that strengthens your resume.
• For the Hands-On Hobbyist or Restorer: Your focus is on practical application for a specific project. The Car Restoration Guide on Alison offers targeted advice, while Udemy’s Automotive Electrical Systems course can help you troubleshoot one of the most challenging aspects of older vehicles.
• For the Future-Focused Learner: The automotive industry is rapidly electrifying. To stay ahead of the curve, dedicating time to Great Learning’s Introduction to Electric Vehicles is a non-negotiable first step. It provides the essential vocabulary and system understanding needed to engage with modern automotive technology.

From Theory to the Garage Floor

The most crucial step in your journey is bridging the gap between digital learning and physical application. The most well-produced video course is only a starting point. To truly internalize these skills, you must actively engage with the material.

Don't just be a passive viewer. Pause the videos, take detailed notes, and actively think about how a concept applies to a tangible vehicle. If possible, supplement your online learning with hands-on practice, even if it’s just performing basic fluid checks or inspecting the tire tread on your own car. This tactile experience cements the knowledge in a way that watching a screen never can. Remember that the free online automotive courses we've explored are your launchpad, not the final destination.

The automotive world is in a constant state of evolution. The skills you cultivate today are the essential foundation for understanding the complex, software-defined vehicles of tomorrow. By choosing the right course for your goals and committing to consistent, applied learning, you are not just learning to fix cars. You are investing in a durable, valuable, and deeply rewarding skill set that will drive you forward for years to come.