Vehicle Livery Care & Maintenance Guide

Caring for your new vehicle livery and graphics

 

Issued by: Safe Response – Emergency Vehicle Conversions
Version: July 2025

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Safe Response for your vehicle livery installation. We use high-quality materials from industry-leading manufacturers such as 3M and Avery Dennison, ensuring durability and professional finish. Proper care and maintenance will maximise the lifespan, appearance, and safety compliance of your vehicle livery.

1. Initial curing period

Both 3M and Avery Dennison recommend avoiding:

  • Washing the vehicle for at least 96 hours after installation to allow adhesives to fully cure.

  • High-pressure washing, mechanical car washes, or abrasive cleaning during this period.

2. General cleaning guidance

  • Wash vehicles regularly (at least monthly) to prevent build-up of dirt and contaminants that may degrade the film.

  • Use a mild detergent (pH neutral) diluted with water and a soft sponge or cloth.

  • Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all soap residues.

  • Dry with a clean microfibre cloth to avoid water spotting.

3M states that failure to clean graphics regularly can result in staining or reduced film performance.

3. Pressure washing

If using a pressure washer:

  • Ensure water pressure is below 2000 psi (14 MPa)

  • Maintain water temperature below 80°C (180°F)

  • Keep the nozzle at a minimum distance of 1 metre (3 feet) from the graphics

  • Use a spray angle no narrower than 40 degrees

  • Avoid spraying directly at the edges of livery to prevent lifting or damage.

Avery Dennison recommends washing from a 90-degree angle to the surface, avoiding upward spray angles towards graphic edges.

4. Fuel spills

Clean fuel spills immediately to prevent degradation of the film. Gently wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent if needed.

5. Waxing and polishing

  • You may apply silicone or Teflon-based polish to the graphics to enhance appearance and protect from pollutants.

  • Avoid petroleum-based waxes or products containing strong solvents.

6. De-icing chemicals

  • Avoid direct contact between graphics and strong de-icing chemicals.

  • Rinse thoroughly after exposure to salt or de-icing products to prevent edge lifting or adhesive breakdown.

7. Environmental considerations

  • UV exposure: Both 3M and Avery Dennison films are engineered for outdoor durability, but prolonged direct sun exposure can accelerate fading over years.

  • Storage: If vehicles are parked for extended periods, storing under cover will extend livery life.

8. Repairs and replacements

If damage occurs:

  • Avoid attempting to patch or repair graphics yourself.

  • Contact Safe Response for professional assessment, repair, or reapplication to maintain vehicle compliance and aesthetics.

9. Expected lifespan

When maintained correctly, high-performance livery films can last:

  • 5-7 years (Avery Dennison’s published durability for high-quality reflective and conspicuity films)

  • Up to 7-10 years (3M premium cast films under normal UK conditions)

Actual lifespan depends on environmental exposure, cleaning regime, and operational use.

10. Contact us

If you have any questions about caring for your livery or require replacement panels, please contact:

📧 conversions@saferesponse.co.uk
📞 01803 365999

References

  • 3M Graphics Cleaning & Maintenance Bulletin (3M Commercial Solutions)

  • Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions Care & Maintenance Guide

  • Manufacturer technical data sheets available upon request.