License Plate Screws - What Size Do You Need?

License Plate Screws - What Size Do You Need?

You need to replace a license plate screw. Simple enough, right? Not always. Getting the wrong size means a screw that does not fit, strips out, or worse, damages your car. This guide will help you figure out exactly what you need before you buy.

Step One: Identify the Type of Screw

The first thing to determine is the diameter and type of screw your vehicle uses. This is usually consistent across the same make of car, but can vary from model to model and year to year, so it is worth double checking before ordering.

License plate screws fall into two categories:

Self Tapping Screws

These thread into a nylon or plastic insert, or in some cases directly into the bumper material itself. They have coarser threads designed to cut their own path as they are driven in.

Machine Screws

These have finer threads and are designed to thread into an existing threaded metal hole or weld nut on the vehicle. They require a pre existing threaded receptacle and will not work in plastic inserts.

Step Two: Consider the Length

For many vehicles, screw length is not critical. The screw threads into either a nylon insert or a threaded weld nut, and there is typically enough clearance behind it that a slightly longer screw will not cause any problems. Vehicles in this category include Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, and most domestic vehicles such as Chevrolet, Ford, Jeep, and Dodge.

Other vehicles have a bracket mounted directly behind the license plate. On these cars, a screw that is too long will protrude through the back of the bracket and can scratch or damage the paint behind it. Vehicles where length is particularly important include Mercedes, Audi, Tesla, BMW, and MINI.

Summary

Before purchasing replacement license plate screws, identify whether your vehicle uses a self tapping screw or a machine screw, and check whether your make and model is sensitive to screw length. When in doubt, refer to your vehicle's owner manual or contact your dealer. Getting the right screw the first time saves you from a return trip and protects your vehicle's finish.

At ReplacementScrews.com we have done the research for you and carry the correct license plate screws for your vehicle. Head over to our license plate screws section to find the perfect screws for your car. We carry screws for most makes and models, and in stainless and black plated too.