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PhrasesAt the Petrol StationPuò controllare i liquidi del motore?
B1formal

Può controllare i liquidi del motore?

Can you check the engine fluids?

Pronunciation

'Liquidi' — 'LI-kwi-di'. Three syllables; stress on the first.

When to use it

Ask an attendant for a full fluid check — oil, coolant, brake fluid, screen wash — especially before a long motorway journey.

What it means

'Controllare i liquidi' means to check the fluids. 'Del motore' means of the engine. At attended Italian petrol stations this service is often offered proactively, especially if the car is driven long-distance.

Variations

Può controllare anche i freni?

Can you also check the brakes?

Adds brake system to the fluid check request.

Controlla l'olio, per favore.

Check the oil, please.

Simple, focused request for just the oil level.

Sa dove si trova il tappo dell'acqua?

Do you know where the coolant cap is?

Asks the attendant to help locate the reservoir.

Mini Dialogue

— Può controllare i liquidi del motore? — Certo. Apra il cofano. — Eccolo. È tutto a posto? — L'olio è un po' basso. Le consiglio di aggiungerne mezzo litro.

— Can you check the engine fluids? — Certainly. Open the bonnet. — Here it is. Is everything alright? — The oil is a little low. I recommend adding half a litre.

Cultural Note

Attended Italian petrol stations often offer a basic vehicle check as a courtesy — particularly on motorways. This service is one reason many Italian drivers still prefer 'servito' over self-service despite the higher price per litre.