TFR and vehicle graphics: Why this combo doesn’t mix

Oct 31, 20243 min read

Protect your investment: Why gentle cleaning outlasts quick fixes for vehicle graphics.

If you’ve ever worked around commercial vehicles, especially ones that operate in harsh environments (hello, bin lorries!), you’ve probably come across TFR—Traffic Film Remover. This stuff is often seen as the “quick fix” for cleaning vehicles caked in grime, oil, and all kinds of muck. But here’s the catch: TFR and vehicle graphics do not mix!

In fact, we’re here to tell you, do not use TFR on your vinyl wraps or graphics— and if the Day 1 vs Year 3 image isn’t enough, here are some more reasons why.

What is TFR, and why is it harmful?

TFR is a powerful, chemical-based cleaning agent designed to strip away stubborn traffic film and dirt from vehicles. It’s strong stuff, made to tackle the kinds of filth that build up over time. But that strength comes at a cost—particularly when it comes to the surfaces of PVC vinyl wraps and graphics.

Most graphics companies will use PVC vinyl for printed wraps, with a laminate layer that acts as a protective barrier. This laminate keeps the printed graphics beneath safe from weather, dirt, and wear. But TFR is so abrasive that it can actually melt this layer right off the vinyl. We’ve tested it ourselves, and it takes less than 10 seconds for TFR to start attacking the material.

How TFR affects your graphics

Once TFR starts to eat away at the laminate, the surface of the vinyl turns sticky—that’s the first sign that the material is breaking down. Over time, if TFR continues to be used, it’ll wear away the entire top layer of laminate, leaving the printed graphics exposed.

Without that protective barrier, the ink in the graphics will come under attack from the TFR and fade because it no longer has the UV protection provided by the laminate. And it doesn’t stop there; after the ink fades, the TFR continues to attack the base layer of the vinyl, making it brittle and prone to cracking.

What’s worse is that this constant damage can make graphic removal at the end of its life nearly impossible. The vinyl becomes so compromised that it won’t remove from the paint, leading to a messy and expensive situation.

TFR’s impact on commercial vehicles

Let’s take bin lorries as an example. These vehicles work in some harsh conditions—dealing with dirt, grime, and leachate (liquid that escapes from waste as it’s collected). Regular washing is essential, but we understand that in the fast-paced world of waste collection, there’s not always time to clean vehicles properly. That’s where the temptation comes in to grab the TFR and go for a quick clean.

Unfortunately, this quick fix can do long-term damage. TFR doesn’t just affect the graphics—it’s also harmful when mixed with leachate from the waste. Together, they create a double whammy that will attack your vehicle’s graphics even faster.

The environmental and longevity perspective of using TFR

Mobad, are all about sustainability. We install graphics designed to last, and harsh chemicals like TFR don’t fit into that ethos. Not only is TFR damaging to your vehicle wraps, but it’s also not exactly eco-friendly. We believe in solutions that protect both your graphics and the environment, which is why we always recommend more gentle cleaning methods.

You can read more about our commitment to sustainability on our Sustainability page, but the key takeaway here is that TFR shortens the lifespan of your graphics, meaning you’ll need replacements sooner—hardly an environmentally responsible option.

Is there any way to mitigate the damage from TFR?

There are ways to mitigate the damage caused by TFR—like switching to an anti-graffiti laminate. This laminate is tougher and more resistant to harsh chemicals. But there’s a downside: it’s expensive. And even with the added protection, we still don’t recommend using TFR unless absolutely necessary.

Our advice? Skip the harsh chemicals and stick to a gentle, regular cleaning routine. It’s better for your graphics, your vehicle, and the planet.

Keep your vehicle graphics looking great (Without TFR)

If you’re working with commercial vehicles in tough environments, we know it’s tempting to use something like TFR to get the job done quickly. But in the long run, you’ll save time and money by sticking to less abrasive cleaning methods. A bit of extra care goes a long way in keeping your vehicle wraps looking fresh and lasting longer.

Need advice on how to clean and protect your vehicle graphics?