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PhrasesAt the Petrol StationHa dell'olio motore? Il livello è basso.
A2

Ha dell'olio motore? Il livello è basso.

Do you have engine oil? The level is low.

Pronunciation

'Olio' — 'O-lyo'. Two syllables; 'io' is a diphthong.

When to use it

Ask at the station shop when your car's oil warning light comes on or when you check the dipstick and find the level is below the minimum.

What it means

'Dell'olio' uses the partitive article 'dell'' (some oil). 'Motore' clarifies it is engine oil. 'Il livello è basso' means 'the level is low'. Most Italian petrol station shops sell standard engine oils.

Variations

Che tipo di olio serve a questa macchina?

What type of oil does this car need?

Asks for guidance on the correct viscosity.

Dove si controlla l'olio?

Where do you check the oil?

For complete beginners — asks where the dipstick is.

Mette lei l'olio o lo faccio io?

Do you put in the oil or shall I do it?

Checks if the attendant will help with the top-up.

Mini Dialogue

— Ha dell'olio motore? Il livello è basso. — Sì, che tipo vuole? 5W30 o 10W40? — Non lo so. È una Ford Focus del 2020. — Allora le do il 5W30, va bene per quei motori.

— Do you have engine oil? The level is low. — Yes, what type do you want? 5W30 or 10W40? — I don't know. It's a 2020 Ford Focus. — Then I'll give you the 5W30, it's right for those engines.

Cultural Note

Italian petrol stations typically stock basic engine oils, coolant, and screen wash. For specialist oils, a car parts shop ('ricambista auto') is better equipped. Many Italian mechanics are generous with quick advice for free.