Using a Petro-Canada car wash is a straightforward process designed for convenience. You can pay and activate the wash either at the pump before fueling, inside at the cashier, or by using the Touchless Pay feature on the Petro-Canada app. Simply drive up to the wash bay entrance, follow the on-screen prompts or attendant instructions, place your vehicle in neutral, and remain stationary while the equipment does the work.
The first step is choosing your wash type. Petro-Canada typically offers three main tiers: Basic (a quick rinse and soap application), Supreme (adds underbody rinse and triple foam), and Ultimate (which includes all previous features plus protectant wax and spot-free rinse). Your choice depends on how thorough a clean you need and your budget. For most drivers, the Supreme wash offers the best balance of cleaning power and value.
Before you enter the bay, it's crucial to prepare your vehicle. Roll up all windows completely and ensure your side mirrors are folded in if they are power-folding. Turn off automatic wipers to prevent damage, and remove any loose accessories like roof racks or antennas if possible. If you have a bike rack or a trailer, you cannot take it through the tunnel wash.
Once you’re ready, pull forward until the front tires are aligned with the guide tracks. The system will instruct you to stop and put your car in neutral. Do not steer or apply the brakes once the wash cycle begins. The machine will either pull your car through (if it's a conveyor-type wash) or the arch will move around your stationary vehicle (in a touchless wash). The entire process usually takes just a few minutes. After it's complete, you can drive out and gently dry your car with a microfiber towel for a spot-free finish, especially if you didn't select the top-tier spot-free rinse option.
Here is a quick comparison of common wash features:
| Wash Tier | Key Features | Ideal For |
|---|
| Basic Wash | High-pressure rinse, soap application | Quick removal of light dirt and dust |
| Supreme Wash | Basic features + underbody rinse, triple foam | Regular maintenance, road salt removal |
| Ultimate Wash | Supreme features + protectant wax, spot-free rinse | Showroom shine, long-term paint protection |
| Touchless Wash | Uses high-pressure water and chemicals only | New cars, vehicles with delicate paintwork |
