There are some things to keep in mind when installing fasteners that hold your license plate in place, whether you’re replacing screws, mounting a new plate, or switching to anti-theft fasteners—details matter! By paying attention to detail you can avoid having your plates rattle, lose screws, and be stolen. This will provide step-by-step installation instructions, tools needed, and answers to commonly asked questions about license plate screws and fasteners.
What Are License Plate Fasteners?
License plate fasteners (also known as license plate screws, bolts, and nuts) are small components used to attach a license plate to a vehicle. They are used with a license plate frame for protection and aesthetics. Fasteners come in a variety of materials: stainless steel, zinc-coated metal, or plastic—to suit different climates or personal preferences. Additionally, some fasteners are manufactured with anti-theft technology to deter theft of the license plate.
What Tools Do You Need to Install License Plate Screws?
To install license plate screws, first, gather the tools and materials necessary to do the job:
- A Phillips or flathead screwdriver depending on screw type
- A wrench or pliers for using nuts on screws
- Anti-seize lubricant (recommended) for avoiding rusting
- Replacement bolts for license plate or screws (if necessary)
- Your license plate (with or without optional license plate frame)
Many vehicles have threaded inserts already installed into the area where the license plate mounts. You will need to have either a license plate retainer or license plate nut, which are sold separately if your vehicle does not come with them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install License Plate Fasteners
Step 1: Remove Old Screws From Your Vehicle
The first step is to use the appropriate screwdriver and carefully remove the existing screws from your vehicle. Make sure that you do not strip the screws by using too much force. If you find any of the screws to be rusty or stuck, you can use a lubricant on the threads of the screws to loosen them up.
Step 2: Position License Plate and Frame for Attachment
Now, position the license plate over the holes where the screws will attach on your vehicle. If you are using a license plate frame, make sure to position this correctly before attaching the license plate.
Step 3: Insert New License Plate Fastener Into Your Vehicle
Next, take the new license plate screws (or bolts) and insert it through the holes of the license plate (and license plate frame) and into the threaded inserts (holes) in your vehicle, and tighten down using the screwdriver or wrench. Be careful not to overtighten or strip out the holes; this will cause breaking of your plate and will not hold well.
Step 4: Install Anti-Theft Fasteners (OPTIONAL)
You may want to consider using anti-theft fasteners, as these screws will require special tools for removal. This would help deter theft of your license plates. Simply insert, and tighten these fasteners as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Verify Plate is Secure After Installation
After all plates have been installed, grab the bottom of the license plate with one hand and lightly shake it to ensure that the license plate is secure. License plate fasteners should be installed snugly in order to keep them firmly attached to the vehicle while driving. If there is any movement or rattling of the plate while driving, tighten the bolts or check for any additional hardware, such as spacers.
Best Practices for Long-Term Maintenance or Upgrading Fasteners for Your License Plate
1. Utilize Quality Materials: For outdoor applications, use stainless steel fasteners, which will be naturally rust-resistant. If you are in a coastal area or an area where snow is prevalent, you should always choose a fastener that will not corrode.
2. Use Anti-Seize: Anti-seize will protect the fastener from rust and will help you when you want to remove or adjust it later.
3. Check Local Laws Prior to Installation: Some areas of the country have specific laws related to how visible license plates must be, such as not being allowed to cover the license plate with a tinted cover or having to have a license plate on the front of the car.
4. Have Extra Fasteners: Accidents happen and missing fasteners can create a hassle and inconvenience at times which is why you should always keep extra fasteners on hand in case anything happens to one of them.
FAQ About License Plate Fasteners
Can I Purchase Fasteners for License Plates Locally?
Auto parts stores, hardware stores, and many online retailers (such as Amazon) will carry license plate fasteners for all vehicle types. It’s important to verify that the fasteners you purchase will fit your vehicle type because not all fasteners are universally the same.
Do All Cars Have the Same Fastener Sizes for License Plates?
While there are several license plate screws out there that will work with most vehicles, they are not all the same size. Each vehicle manufacturer has its own design standards making fasteners for each manufacturer’s vehicle size, or screw length/diameter/thread pitch.
Are There Any Tools Required to Install Fasteners for License Plates?
Most fasteners utilized by vehicles use either a Phillips or flat-head screw so a screwdriver will work. Wrenches and/or pliers may be required to install lock nuts or other specialty fasteners. If using anti-theft fasteners, then you will need that specific tool that comes with the package.
Installing your license plate fasteners is simple but important to having them securely fastened to the vehicle as they were intended to be. By using the proper fasteners and tools found in our installation guide and choosing fasteners that will work with your vehicle’s make/model, you will have a complete installation that meets local vehicle code requirements. When you are shopping for new fasteners, be sure to consider both the fasteners’ material and if they will be compatible with your vehicle’s make/model. By properly installing and maintaining your license plate fasteners, you will greatly increase the longevity of your license plates, as well as provide yourself with peace of mind that your license plates are not going to be lost or damaged through theft or natural wear.
