Consumer Rights and Car Wash Passes: Michael Binetti Weighs In

Featuring Insight from AGM Managing Partner, Michael Binetti

A recent article in The Toronto Star has brought attention to a Petro-Canada car wash dispute that raises broader questions about consumer rights and how companies enforce fine print in prepaid service agreements.

Leah Meechem, a longtime loyal customer, regularly used Petro-Canada’s season car wash pass, which allows one wash per day at a low cost, until Petro-Canada suddenly revoked her access without prior notice.

The issue? Petro-Canada claimed that household members were sharing the pass, even though the promotional materials did not clearly restrict this. Despite Meechem having over 147 washes left on her pass, which was valued at more than $400, Petro-Canada denied her a refund.

The Petro-Canada car wash dispute has sparked discourse around corporate responsibility and transparency. Asked by The Star, AGM’s Michael Binetti weighed in on the matter.

From a legal standpoint, as Michael Binetti notes, the enforcement of terms and conditions must still align with basic standards of fairness and transparency. Consumers expect and deserve a clear understanding of what they’re paying for, and recourse when things go wrong.

“Petro-Canada may not agree that their card can be used in such a way,” Michael Binetti said, “but that doesn’t give them the right to basically seize the money as a penalty.”

To read the full article by journalist Ellen Moorhouse, visit the Toronto Star here.

At Affleck Greene McMurtry LLP, we continue to advocate for business practices that are fair, transparent, and legally sound for companies and consumers alike. For more commentary and updates, visit The Litigator.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.