A DIRECTION to move a car has led to three men facing off with chainsaws and screwdrivers in a violent confrontation at a petrol station south of Perth.

Police say a 45-year-old man was refuelling his car at a Waikiki petrol station at about 12.30pm (WST) yesterday when he became enraged after being asked to move his vehicle.

When the man paid for the fuel, he swore at the petrol station attendant and threw his money at them.

A 22-year-old man who was in the store confronted the man over his behaviour, triggering a fight between the pair which spilled outside.

The 45-year-old man then allegedly went to his vehicle, armed himself with two screwdrivers and started making threats.

A police spokeswoman said the other man was then joined by his friend who both went and grabbed chainsaws from the boot of their car and began revving them.

This prompted the 45-year-old to throw the screwdrivers at the pair and retreat to his car.

But at he was driving away, the 22-year-old man punched him through the window, smashing the glass in the process.

The spokeswoman said as the 45-year-old attempted to speed off he crashed into a parked car before one of the other man threw the chainsaw at his car.

Police have charged the 22-year-old with being armed in public to cause terror and the 45-year-old with common assault and damage.

They will both appear in court at a later date.