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Petrol Attendant Course

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  1. Chapter 1: Fuel Dispensing Operations
    3 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  2. Chapter 2: Basic Vehicle Maintenance Checks
    3 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  3. Chapter 3: Forecourt Housekeeping
    3 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  4. Chapter 4: Receiving Stock
    2 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  5. Chapter 5: Recording Transactions and Processing Payments
    4 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  6. Chapter 6: Interact with Customers
    4 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz
  7. Chapter 7: Shift Procedures and Reporting
    4 Topics
    |
    1 Quiz

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    🎯 Learning Outcomes

    By the end of this topic you will be able to:

    • Check engine oil level correctly using the dipstick.
    • Check coolant, brake fluid and washer fluid levels.
    • Check tyre pressure using a tyre gauge and inflation hose.
    • Identify when a fluid level or tyre pressure is outside the acceptable range and advise the customer.

    Engine Oil Check

    Engine oil lubricates all moving parts inside the engine. Too little oil causes friction, overheating and eventual engine seizure. Checking it takes less than two minutes.

    Steps to Check Engine Oil

    1. Ensure the engine is off and the vehicle is on level ground.
    2. Locate the dipstick (usually has a yellow or orange handle labelled “OIL”).
    3. Pull the dipstick out completely and wipe it clean with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
    4. Re-insert the dipstick fully, then pull it out again.
    5. Read the oil level — it should be between the MIN and MAX marks.
    6. Also check the oil colour: healthy oil is amber/brown. Black, milky or gritty oil indicates a problem — advise the customer to see a mechanic.

    Coolant Level Check

    Coolant (also called antifreeze or water-coolant mix) keeps the engine from overheating. It circulates between the engine and radiator.

    • The coolant is checked at the overflow / expansion reservoir (a translucent plastic bottle), not the radiator cap directly.
    • The level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir.
    • Never open the radiator cap on a hot engine — scalding steam can cause serious burns.
    • If the level is low, top up with the correct coolant mix (50% distilled water, 50% antifreeze) — ask the customer before adding.
    • Note: Coolant is typically green, blue or pink depending on the brand — never mix different colours.

    Brake Fluid Check

    Brake fluid transmits force through the hydraulic braking system. Low brake fluid can mean a leak or worn brake pads.

    • The brake fluid reservoir is usually a small white/translucent container near the firewall, labelled “BRAKE FLUID”.
    • Check the level visually through the reservoir wall (no dipstick needed).
    • Level must be between MIN and MAX.
    • If low, advise the customer to visit a mechanic — do not simply top up without investigating the cause.
    • Caution: Brake fluid is corrosive to paintwork. Do not spill it on the vehicle body.

    Windscreen Washer Fluid

    • Locate the washer fluid reservoir (usually marked with a windscreen/wiper symbol).
    • Remove the cap and check / top up with clean water or a washer fluid concentrate mixture.
    • Do not use engine coolant or any other fluid in the washer bottle.

    Tyre Pressure Checks

    Correct tyre pressure is critical for vehicle safety, fuel economy, and tyre lifespan. Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption and risk blowouts. Over-inflated tyres reduce grip.

    How to Check Tyre Pressure

    1. Ask the customer the recommended tyre pressure (usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in the vehicle handbook).
    2. Remove the tyre valve cap and set it aside safely.
    3. Press the tyre gauge firmly and squarely onto the valve stem.
    4. Read the pressure displayed on the gauge (in kPa or PSI).
    5. If pressure is low — attach the inflation hose and inflate in short bursts, re-checking between each burst.
    6. If pressure is too high — use the small pin on the gauge to release air in short bursts.
    7. Replace the valve cap firmly when done.
    8. Repeat for all four tyres — and check the spare tyre if the customer requests it.

    Tyre Pressure Reference Guide

    Vehicle TypeTypical Front (kPa)Typical Rear (kPa)
    Standard passenger car200–220 kPa200–220 kPa
    SUV / 4×4220–250 kPa220–260 kPa
    Light van / bakkie240–280 kPa280–340 kPa (loaded)

    Note: Always refer to the vehicle’s door-jamb sticker for the manufacturer’s exact recommended pressure. These figures are general guides only.

    Identifying Tyre Problems

    What You SeeWhat It MeansWhat to Tell the Customer
    Tyre is visibly flatPuncture or slow leak“Your tyre appears to be flat — please do not drive on it. Can I assist with the spare?”
    Tread worn to indicator linesTyre is at legal limit (1.6mm)“Your tyre tread is very low — you may want to replace them soon for safety.”
    Uneven wear on one sideWheel alignment or suspension issue“I noticed uneven tyre wear — it might be worth having your wheel alignment checked.”
    ✅ Quick Knowledge Check

    1. What does it mean if the engine oil on the dipstick looks milky white?
    2. Where do you find the correct tyre pressure specification for a specific vehicle?
    3. Why should you never mix different coloured coolants?

    📚 Additional Resources

    📖 Further Reading

    🎬 Watch: Car Oil and Water Check – Step-by-Step Guide

    A clear, step-by-step demonstration of how to check engine oil and coolant/water levels in a vehicle.

    📊 Chapter 2 Presentation

    Review the full Chapter 2 slide deck used in this module:

    📥 View Chapter 2 Presentation

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