Updated at: 10-08-2022 - By: Lucas

The only difficulty is determining the type of screw that fits. Replacing the license plate takes five minutes and can be done by anyone. License plate screws are not universal, and might differ even amongst vehicles made by the same manufacturer.

The good thing is that even if you acquire the wrong type the first time, they’re so inexpensive that purchasing another pair isn’t a problem. There’s no need to acquire multiple sets, as we’ll go through the most common screw types and sizes used by automobile manufacturers in this post.

License Plate Screw Size By Manufacturer

License Plate Screw

Audi

For Audi, stainless steel screws with pan heads are required. This option is available in two lengths. Standard length for direct installation, and extended length for screwing the license plate and plate frame together. The screw is 0.50′′ x 0.35′′ x 0.50′′, with extended screws having an additional 0.15′′ thread length. A medium sized Philips head screwdriver can be used to screw them in.

BMW

BMW, like Audi, use screws that are extremely similar in appearance. These 316 stainless steel screws have dimensions of 0. 39′′ x 0. 39′′ x 0. 19′′ and are available in normal and extended lengths to fit a plate frame. The thread length in metric is 10mm for the standard screw and 16mm for the extended screw.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet use stainless steel slotted hex washer head screws measuring 1/4′′ x 14′′ x 3/4′′. Because of the hex head, you can use a flathead screwdriver or a small 3/8′′ drive socket. These screws will fit most domestic vehicles, including Chevrolet sedans, trucks, and SUVs. Keep in mind, however, that these crews are designed for nylon/plastic retainer holes, not metal threaded holes.

Chrysler

These stainless steel Chrysler license plate screws are 13. 8mm x 22mm x 6. 3mm. In imperial dimensions, the screw has a 0.54′′ head, 0.25′′ screw diameter, and 0.86′′ thread length. The manufacturer offers three distinct screw variations, with the C2 size being the best fit for the Chrysler application.

Ford

You’ll need 1/4′′ x 3/4′′ screws with a 3/8′′ hex slotted head that fits a flathead screwdriver or a 3/8′′ drive socket if you’re driving a Ford. These screws are available in stainless steel, black zinc, or chrome and are compatible with plastic and nylon retainers.

Dodge

I discovered an excellent kit for Dodge automobiles that includes zinc-plated, stainless steel screws, foam pads, washers, screw inserts, and screw covers. The screws are the standard 1/4′′ diameter x 3/4′′ length with a 3/8′′ slotted hex head that you tighten with a socket or a flathead screwdriver.

GMC

GMC automobiles can accept standard hex head screws, however I believe this black oxidized kit looks much better and fits properly on most trucks due to the universal 0. 75′′ x 0. 25′′ measurements. These screws, made of 18 8 stainless steel, should not rust or deteriorate in any manner, which is critical for a metal object exposed to the environment.

Honda

Honda employs M6 metric screws, therefore this set of 12 screws should suffice. The front license plate screws are self-tapping, whilst the rear screws are available in two diameter sizes. The stainless steel structure includes a lifetime rust warranty, which is a major advantage.

Hyundai

Hyundai screws are slightly smaller than those used by other manufacturers. The rear plate screws are 0. 23′′ in diameter, 0. 46′′ in length, and have a 0. 64′′ thread. They are made of standard 316 stainless steel and will fit the majority of Hyundai automobiles. Front screws are tightened with a socket or flathead screwdriver, while back screws are tightened with a Phillips head.

Lexus

Lexus takes a different approach, employing 0. 50′′ x 0. 55′′ x 0. 50′′ screws with a fine thread. Aside than that, they’re ordinary 316 stainless steel screws that may be inserted with a tiny medium Phillips head screwdriver.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz screws have a Phillips head screwdriver cutout and are pan head stainless steel. To maximize the amount of Mercedes Benz automobiles it can be used with, the package includes four 5mm screws and four 6mm screws. The thread length is 16mm, or 0.63′′, which is the maximum length that may accommodate a license plate holder.

Mazda

This kit is ideal for both the front and rear Mazda plates. The self-tapping screws go on the front plate, while the four finer-threaded screws go on the back. The screws work with practically every Mazda vehicle and license plate frame. The manufacturer hasn’t mentioned the specific size of the screws, but I’d guess they’re 5mm in diameter with a thread length of 12-16mm.

Nissan

There are two types of screws for Nissan automobiles. 1/4′′ regular and extended threads allow you to connect the plate directly or utilize a license plate holder. They’re made of stainless steel and should not rust in hard climates.

Toyota

To secure the license plate on a Toyota, you’ll need 0. 50′′ x 0. 75′′ x 0. 50′′ screws. These 316 stainless steel screws are suitable for the job and can be placed with a Phillips head screwdriver. Keep in mind that these are extended screws, which should be fitted with the license plate holder. Consider ordering the 0.65′′ long option if you’re mounting the plate directly.

Standard License Plate Screw Sizes

Automobile manufacturers utilize a few standard screw sizes. The first is a 1/4′′ 14 3/4′′ self tapping screw with a flathead screwdriver or small size socket head. It’s primarily utilized for the front plate, although most domestic automobile manufacturers use it for the rear as well.

The metric screws M5 and M6, having threads of 5mm and 6mm, respectively, are the alternative option. The thread length varies depending on the manufacturer and use, but 10mm to 16mm appears to be the usual. The length of thread required is determined by whether or not you use a license plate holder. If the screw must pass through both the plate and the holder, it must be at least 16mm long.

FAQs

What type of screws do I need for the license plate?

Self tapping 1/4 14 3/4 inch screws are used in the majority of cars made in the United States. The same screws can be used on the back plate, as well as metric M5 or M6 screws.

Can you use any screws for license plates?

The issue with using any strange screws you may have lying around the house is that they may not work without the nut and washer to make it secure from the back. The second concern is rust formation, which stainless steel screws used for license plate mounting are particularly resistant to.

What is the standard size screw for a license plate?

Because different manufacturers utilize different threads and screw sizes, there is no universal solution. The 1/4′′ 14′′ 3/4′′ imperial screw or the 5 6mm x 16mm metric screw will most likely fit your car.

How do you screw in a front license plate?

The plate bracket will hold the plate in place, so all you have to do is fasten it to the bumper. Typically, this entails screwing in the bottom two screws and inserting the license plate. The top cover of the bracket can then be installed and screwed in place, enclosing the plate.

Can you drill holes in number plates?

Yes, you may measure the distance between the plate holes and convert them to the plate if you wish to install the plates directly on your vehicle. Tap small holes in it using a power drill, then thread the screw through and secure it to the vehicle.

Can I use my old license plate on my new car?

This depends on the state you live in, but in general, you can transfer the license plate (tags) to the new car. The procedure is straightforward, and you will retain your current license number.

Summary

It does not have to be difficult to obtain new license plate screws. We’ve provided alternatives for the most common brands in this article to assist you acquire the proper size. To install the license plate, all you need is a screwdriver and a plate bracket, or you can drill right through the plate.