We all want to ensure that our car is kept in peak condition, so here are some tips to help you remove a number plate and put a new one on your vehicle. Registration plates add the extra touch your vehicle needs so you can be proud of it. They also have to fit your vehicle properly so they are secure after being manufactured and delivered. What can you do to make sure that you won’t be replacing it again quickly?
REMOVING A NUMBER PLATE PROPERLY
If you look carefully at your current number plates, you may find they are secured to the vehicle by being stuck or screwed on. Plates that are stuck on do so with sticky pads that adhere to the vehicle body. Otherwise, screws are used. After you know the attachment method, you can start removing the plate using one of the methods described below.
If screws were used to attach the plate, it would be easy to understand how to remove it. Find a screwdriver that properly fits the screw head and start removing the screw by turning the screwdriver counter-clockwise. You should also hold the plate with your free hand to ensure it doesn’t damage the paint by shifting as it loosens. Follow the same steps with the other screws in turn until the plate can be completely removed from the vehicle.
If sticky or adhesive pads are used, a little more work is involved with removing the number plate. The sticky pads are powerful, so you have to remove them in a way that will not damage the paint. Gently pull on each corner of the plate to test the strength of the adhesive. If you feel you can pull off the plate without damaging the paint, go ahead and do so. Otherwise, wrap a thin wire around the plate while holding the ends firmly. Pull the wire through until it slices the adhesive pads and eventually reaches the edge of the plate. You can then remove the plate.
Number Plate Fitting
GETTING READY FOR YOUR NEW NUMBER PLATE
There are multiple ways to fit the number plate properly, but the most important tip is to clean the area thoroughly. This is of particular concern when sticky number plates are used. By cleaning the area properly, you can ensure the adhesive will do its job.
How to remove number plates
You should not have a difficult time removing the existing number plate. If they are screwed in, then using a properly sized screwdriver allows you to loosen the plate and remove it. When sticky pads are used on the old plate, you can likely pull them off with little difficulty. If the adhesive is not easily removed, use a thin wire and then clean the area with an appropriate cleaner.
Removal of number plate adhesive pads
If your number plates have been on the vehicle for some time, you may have dirt and debris behind them. Regardless of how they were fitted first, this will be a problem. If adhesive pads were used to attach the plate, it could be difficult to completely clean and dry the surface thoroughly.
The use of a grime remover or deep surface cleaner will make the job easier. To apply the cleaner properly, spray the area and allow it to soak for five minutes. Any adhesive that is left on the surface will begin to lose its grip. After soaking and removing several times, you will have a clean area free from blemishes. This will allow the new plate to be fitted in place and stay for a long time.
ATTACHING A NUMBER PLATE WITH SCREWS
If you prefer to use screws for attaching a number plate, holes may have to be drilled. After drilling them properly, you can use normal screws or anti-theft screw sets to secure the plate. Although it is a simple process, make sure you plan out the drilling beforehand so you don’t ruin the plate. Generally speaking, a 5 mm drill bit is preferred, and start drilling from the rear of the plate, not the front. Doing so protects the film where the registration is printed. If you finish drilling and the holes aren’t lining up, you may need to buy a new set and start over.
We have a video available to help anyone having a problem removing a number plate and fitting a new one.
USING ADHESIVE PADS TO FIT A NUMBER PLATE
When you use our sticky pads, you will get six strips. Two packs will add the extra protection necessary for day-to-day use. Every strip in the pack should be used, placed vertically, and evenly spaced on the number plate rear.
You will not find much flex in the number plate because of the acrylic used in manufacturing them. That is why the removal of the sticky tape protective tabs should take place all at one time. You can then press the plate into place cautiously, and after ensuring the position, press against the plate firmly to secure it.
If you have a vehicle with existing sticky pads, you may find that their ability to stick is no longer as strong, or they may be stuck to the original plates. To remove older sticky pads, you can use WD-40 or some adhesive remover along with a scraper. Just be cautious that you don’t damage the paint while scraping.