If, after purchasing a car or replacing license plates, you find that the standard fasteners are missing or damaged, first check the car’s equipment for plastic bolt holders. On most modern models (for example, Lada Vesta, Hyundai Solaris, Kia Rio) manufacturers provide standard holes for fastening numbers with a diameter of 8–10 mm, but often forget to include the fasteners themselves in the kit. Without proper installation, license plates can dangle on bumps, cling to sidewalks or even get lost - and this is a fine of up to 5,000 ₽ Part 2 Art. 12.2 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation.

Installing license plates yourself takes no more than 20 minutes, but requires compliance with three key rules: compliance with GOST R 50577-2018 (sign size, location), reliable fixation without backlash and protection against corrosion of fasteners. In this instruction, we will go through step by step how to attach license plates to a car, taking into account the body type (sedan, hatchback, SUV), bumper material (plastic, metal) and avoid typical mistakes that cause traffic police inspectors to issue reports.

1. Preparation: tools and materials

Before attaching the numbers, collect the necessary set of tools. The minimum kit includes:

  • 🔧 Phillips screwdriver (PH2 or PZ2) - for most modern cars.
  • 🔩 10 mm socket wrench - if the fastening is on nuts (relevant for Toyota RAV4, Nissan Qashqai).
  • 📏 Ruler or caliper — to measure the distance between the holes on the license plate and the bumper.
  • 🧴 Alcohol wipes — for degreasing the surface before installation.
  • 🔹 Double-sided tape 3M VHB (optional) - if you are planning a combined mount.

Materials you will need:

  • 🔄 Mounting kit (M6×16 mm bolts + nuts + washers + decorative caps) - sold in any auto store (price ~200–400 ₽).
  • 🛡️ Anti-corrosion lubricant (for example, WD-40 or Liqui Moly MoS2>) - for processing metal elements.
  • 🔶 Plastic substrates — if the bumper is thin and there is a risk of squeezing.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use metal screws without washers - they will eventually become loose and damage the paintwork of the bumper. For plastic bumpers (Volkswagen Polo, Renault Duster) take the bolts from spring washers (growers) to avoid spontaneous unscrewing.

2. Marking and drilling holes (if there are none)

New cars usually already have holes for numbers (closed with plugs). If they are not there, you will have to drill it yourself. Algorithm:

  1. Attach the license plate to the bumper and mark the centers of future holes with a pencil. Standard bolt spacing:
    • Horizontal: 112 ± 1 mm (for signs size 520×112 mm).
    • Vertical: 40–50 mm from the edge of the bumper.
  • Drill holes with a drill diameter 7.5–8 mm (for M6 bolt). For plastic, use a metal drill at low speed (800-1000 rpm) to avoid melting the material.
  • Finish the edges of the holes file or needle fileto remove burrs.

    • For machines with rubber bumpers (for example, UAZ Patriot) or thick plastic (Mitsubishi Outlander) may be required step drilling: first use a 3–4 mm drill, then widen the hole.

    How to avoid cracks when drilling plastic

    Use masking tape where you are drilling to prevent the drill bit from slipping. You can also place a wooden block under the bumper for support.

    Bumper type Drill diameter, mm Recommended Mounting Additional measures
    Metal 8,0 M6 bolt + nut + washer Treat edges with anti-corrosion agent
    Plastic (thin) 7,5 M6 bolt + spring washer Use a rubber backing
    Rubber/thick plastic 6.0 (then expand) M6 bolt with extended thread Drill on both sides
    Carbon (tuning) Special kit Rivets or 3M VHB glue Preliminary laser marking

    3. Choice of fastenings: bolts, rivets or tape?

    The method of fixing the numbers depends on the material of the bumper and operating conditions. Let's look at the pros and cons of each option:

    • 🔩 Bolts with nuts - the most reliable method. Suitable for all types of bumpers, but requires access to the back side (sometimes you need to remove the fender liner). Be sure to use washers to avoid pushing through the plastic.
    • 🔗 Rivets - an alternative to bolts if there is no access to the back of the bumper. Disadvantage: difficult to dismantle when changing numbers. Suitable for metal bumpers (GAZelle Next, UAZ Hunter).
    • 🧲 Magnets - temporary solution for metal surfaces. Not suitable for plastic or winter use (magnets lose power in cold weather).
    • 📜 Double sided tape - only as additional fixation to the bolts. Holds numbers on its own for a maximum of 1-2 seasons (falls off from dirt and vibrations).

    For crossovers and SUVs (for example, Toyota Land Cruiser 200, Nissan Patrol) combined fastening is recommended: bolts + 3M VHB tape. This will prevent the number from being lost when driving off-road.

    📊 What method of attaching numbers do you use?
    Bolts with nuts
    Rivets
    Double sided tape
    Magnets
    Another option

    4. Step-by-step installation instructions

    Let's look at the process using bolts as an example (the most universal method):

    Cleaned the surface of the bumper from dirt and grease|

    I checked that the holes on the license plate and the bumper matched |

    Prepared tools (screwdriver, wrench, lubricant) |

    I made sure that the number does not block the lights/signs-->

    1. Remove the plugs (if any) from the bumper, prying them off with a flat-head screwdriver. In some models (for example, Skoda Octavia) the plugs are glued - warm them up with a hairdryer so as not to break them.
    2. Insert bolts into the number plate holes on the front side, put washers and spring groovers (if the bumper is plastic).
    3. Secure with nuts from the reverse side. Tighten evenly so that the number does not become skewed. Tightening torque: 1.5–2 Nm (do not overtighten!).
    4. Put on decorative caps on the bolts. They protect fasteners from corrosion and give a neat appearance.
    5. Check the play: Pull the number towards you - if it moves more than 1-2 mm, tighten the nuts.

    For machines with recessed fastenings (for example, BMW X5, Mercedes GLE) may require a special Torx or hex wrench. In this case, consult your vehicle's manual.

    💡

    If the bolts turn while tightening, drop a drop of water into the hole superglue or thread locker (for example, Loctite 243). This will prevent spontaneous unscrewing.

    5. Common mistakes and how to avoid them

    Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes when installing license plates, which lead to fines or damage to the bumper. Here are the most common:

    • ❌ Skewed number — occurs if the holes on the bumper and the sign do not match. Solution: use eccentric washers to adjust the position.
    • ❌ Bolts are too long — may rest against the radiator or other parts. Trim them Bulgarian or buy shortened ones (M6×12 mm).
    • ❌ No washers — leads to plastic compression and corrosion. Always use flat and spring washers.
    • ❌ Mounting on dirty surfaces - tape or magnets will not stick. Clean the bumper white spirit before installation.
    • ❌ Using rusty bolts - in a year they will stick and won’t come off. Buy galvanized fasteners.
    ⚠️ Attention: If the license plate covers part of the headlight or reflector, the traffic police inspector may issue a fine according to Part 1 Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation (500 ₽). Check the visibility of lighting fixtures after installation!

    6. Post-installation check

    After attaching the numbers, be sure to perform three checks:

    1. Visual: the number must be strictly parallel to the ground, without distortions. Distance from the edge of the bumper - not less 10 mm.
    2. Functional: shake the bumper with your hands - the number should not rattle or move.
    3. Legal: make sure the sign doesn't cover:
      • State registration plate (the inscription itself).
      • Lighting devices (headlights, dimensions, turn signals).
      • Vehicle marking sign (if any).

    For additional reliability, you can apply a thin layer around the perimeter of the number sealant (for example, ABRO 11AB), but do not overdo it - otherwise, when replacing the sign, you will have to scrape the bumper.

    💡

    The main rule: the number must be clearly visible from a distance of 20 meters at any time of the day. If the inspector cannot read the symbols, a fine is inevitable.

    7. Fines for incorrectly setting numbers

    Violations of the rules for attaching license plates are punishable under two articles of the Administrative Code:

    Violation Article of the Administrative Code Fine, ₽ Additional measures
    Lack of numbers Part 2 Art. 12.2 5,000 or deprivation of rights Evacuation to impound lot
    The numbers are not installed according to GOST (distortion, dirt) Part 1 Art. 12.2 500 Verbal warning
    Numbers are obscured (e.g. by frame or dirt) Part 1 Art. 12.2 500 Demand to eliminate the violation
    Using non-standard fastenings (for example, rope) Part 1 Art. 12.5 500 —

    Pay special attention back number — they often forget to highlight it. According to GOST, it must be illuminated white light in the dark. If the backlight burns out (for example, on Renault Logan or Chevrolet Aveo), replace the light bulb (usually W5W).

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions

    Is it possible to attach numbers with double-sided tape without bolts?

    Technically possible, but it violates GOST R 50577-2018, where the requirement for reliable fixation is stated. A traffic police inspector can fine you 500 rubles for “inconsistency in the fastening method.” Scotch tape is acceptable only as additional measure for bolts.

    What should I do if the holes on the bumper and the license plate do not match?

    There are three solutions:

    1. Use eccentric washers (allows you to move the bolt by 2–3 mm).
    2. Drill the holes in the number to the required diameter (maximum 8.5 mm).
    3. Install universal holders with adjustable pitch (sold in car dealerships).

    We do not recommend drilling the bumper by eye - this may weaken its structure.

    How to remove a number if the bolts are rusty?

    Procedure:

    1. Process the fasteners WD-40 or liquid key, wait 10–15 minutes.
    2. If the bolt does not come off, try heating it construction hairdryer (do not overheat the plastic!).
    3. As a last resort, cut off the bolt. Bulgarian or hacksaw for metal, but carefully so as not to damage the bumper.

    After dismantling, clean the threads wire brush and process anticorrosive.

    Do I need to remove the bumper to attach the number plate?

    In 90% of cases - no. Enough:

    • Bend the fender liner (if it interferes).
    • Use extended socket wrench or flexible extension.
    • In some models (for example, Ford Focus) are provided technological hatches for access to fastenings.

    It is necessary to remove the bumper only on rare cars with an inconvenient design (for example, Porsche Cayenne first generations).

    Can bolts be painted to match the body color?

    Yes, but with reservations:

    • Use heat resistant paint (for example, Motip), as the bolts may become hot.
    • Don't paint carving - this will worsen the fixation.
    • It is better to leave decorative caps standard (black or chrome) so as not to attract the attention of inspectors.

    Remember: the main thing is that the number is clearly visible, and the fasteners did not interfere with its identification.