Licence Plate Screw Sizes and Guidelines

If you’ve owned your car for more than 24 months, take a look at its screws to make sure they’re in good condition. The screws keeping the license plates in place may have worn down over time, in which you will need to replace them. So, what screw size do you need?

The right screw size for a license plate depends on the car brand. The most common screw sizes for license plates are M6 × 1.0 × 25 mm and M6 × 1.0 × 8-16 mm.

Today, we’re going to look at license plate screws based on the carmaker, why using the correct screw size matters, and how to remove old rusted screws from your license plates.

License Plate Screw Sizes

Fastening a license plate to a vehicle is a simple process that requires only a few screws. There is a wide range of sizes available to suit a wide variety of vehicles and license plate layouts.

These screws are made from metals that can withstand the elements and the vibrations caused by the driver and are thus very durable. Selecting the appropriate size of license plate screws will guarantee a snug fit.

Here’s a quick rundown of the correct license plate screw sizes based on car brands.

Why Does License Plate Screw Size Matter?

When it comes to securing a license plate to a vehicle, it’s crucial that the screws used are of the appropriate size. The plate could become loose or fall off while driving if the screws aren’t large enough to hold it securely.

The plate may be difficult to attach or may not sit flush against the vehicle if the screws are too large to fit through the plate’s or vehicle’s holes. The plate or the vehicle may be damaged if the wrong size screws are used.

The license plate screws’ size is important not only for practical reasons like making sure it fits and stays put but also for aesthetic ones. Making sure the plate is flush against the vehicle and that there are no gaps between the plate and the vehicle can be achieved by using screws of the appropriate size.

Doing so will improve the vehicle’s overall presentation. Many states have rules about the style, placement, and size of license plates on vehicles, so it’s important to make sure the screws are large enough to meet those standards.

Types of License Plate Screws

A license plate can be fastened to a vehicle with several common screw types.

Self-tapping screws

Screwing a self-tapping screw into a material causes it to create its own thread. The sharp point of these screws helps them bite into the material they’re fastened to. Their popularity stems from the fact that they can be installed with minimal effort and no special equipment.

Machine screws

Machine screws are usually made of stainless steel or another strong metal, and they have a more precise thread. Due to their durability and resistance to corrosion, they find widespread use in the automotive industry. Most of the time, a screwdriver or a drill is used to set them up.

Cap screws

This category of screws is distinguished by its rounded head and is typically made of steel or stainless steel. They ensure a tight connection when used with a nut or a threaded hole. Their durability and resistance to corrosion make them a go-to material for use in cars.

Locking screws

Locking license plate screws are another option for deterring would-be thieves. Stealing a license plate would be difficult due to the screws’ special head design, which requires a special tool or key to remove them.

How to Remove Rusted License Plate Screws

Many car owners have experienced the annoyance of dealing with rusted license plate screws. These screws can rust due to prolonged contact with the elements, especially moisture, and salt.

1. If you need to replace your license plate or just want to replace the screws, here’s how you remove the old rusted ones.
2. A screwdriver, penetrating oil, and rust dissolver are some essentials you’ll need before you start. You may also need a drill and some drill bits if the screws are particularly rusted.
3. Spray the rusted screws with a generous amount of penetrating oil and give at least 15 minutes to soak. Any accumulated rust on the screws will be loosened, allowing for easier removal.
4. Try a rust dissolver if the screws are still rusty after applying penetrating oil. Before attempting to remove the screws, wait for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer.
5. Try taking out the screws with a screwdriver or a power drill with the appropriate drill bit if they still won’t budge. To remove a screw, begin by drilling a small hole through the center of the head, and then enlarge the hole until the screw is free to be pulled out.
6. Seek the assistance of a professional mechanic or locksmith if the screws refuse to budge. They will know how to remove the rusty screws safely.