Traffic Film Remover (TFR)
Quick answer: TFR is a strong pre-wash detergent that cuts through road film, oils and grime. It cleans quickly but can reduce or strip waxes and sealants if used strong or too often, so dilution, dwell time and technique are critical.
What it means
TFRs are typically alkaline degreasers (some are solvent or citrus boosted) designed to loosen traffic film before contact washing. They are sprayed onto a cool, wet surface, allowed a short dwell and rinsed thoroughly. Used correctly, they remove heavy soil with minimal touching; used carelessly, they can dull trims and shorten the life of protection.
Why it matters
- Heavy-duty cleaning: shifts oily road film that pH-neutral shampoo alone won’t touch.
- Lower marring risk: effective pre-wash reduces contact and grit load during the mitt stage.
- Protection management: strong or frequent use can flatten hydrophobics and strip waxes, so adjust dilution and frequency.
- Material safety: care needed on bare metals, sensitive trims, PPF edges and matte finishes.
Where you’ll see it
Pre-wash stages at detailers, valeting bays and winter cleaning routines where salt and oily grime build up.
Context
Car Paint Protection; Prep & decon; Maintenance wash
Common mistakes
- Letting TFR dry on the panel or using it in hot sun.
- Using too strong a mix routinely, which flattens hydrophobics and strips LSPs.
- Spraying on bare or polished aluminium, unpainted anodised parts or matte finishes without testing first.
- Forcing product under PPF or vinyl edges with high pressure at close range.
- Skipping a follow-up wash, leaving residue that can mute gloss and water behaviour.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 10/11/2025 16:56