The five-step prep
Each step takes seconds and prevents the most common car-wash issues:
- +Close all windows + sunroof — water gets in surprisingly fast at tunnel speed
- +Retract or remove the antenna if removable — fixed mast antennas are usually fine; flexible whip antennas can flap
- +Fold electric mirrors in if your car supports it — some tunnel widths can clip wider mirrors
- +Clear loose items from the roof + roof racks — wash brushes can dislodge unsecured items
- +Check tunnel clearance posted at entry vs. roof box / kayak / bike rack height
What you do not need to do
You do not need to pre-rinse the car at home — the tunnel handles that. You do not need to remove license plates or hubcaps (modern soft-touch foam is gentle on these). You do not need to special-prep wipers for soft-touch tunnels (touchless is different — some operators ask you to lift wipers).