How To Replace BMW License Plate Screws: A Complete Guide

BMW is known for its unique and secure license plate mounting system. Most BMW models use specialized license plate screws that thread into the bumper to hold the plate in place. Over time these screws may become rusted, stripped or lost – requiring replacement.

Replacing your BMW’s license plate screws is a straightforward DIY project any owner can tackle at home with basic tools. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about changing the license plate screws on your BMW model including:

What size license plate screws different BMW models use
Tools needed to complete the job
How to remove stuck, stripped or rusted screws
Step-by-step instructions to properly replace the screws
Where to buy replacement BMW license plate screws

Follow along with this detailed walkthrough and you’ll have your BMW’s license plate securely re-attached in no time.

What Size License Plate Screws Does My BMW Use?

BMW utilizes metric license plate screws on most models sold in the US. Some older BMWs used standard threaded screws.

Here are the most common BMW license plate screw sizes:

M6 – Found on 3 series (E30, E36, E46), 5 series (E28, E34, E39), 7 series (E23, E32, E38), 8 series (E31)
M8 – Used on newer 3 series (E90+), 5 series (E60+), 7 series (E65+), X3, X5, X6
1/4″-20 – Some older US-spec BMWs like E24 6 series, E12 5 series

To determine what size license plate screws you need, remove one of the existing screws and measure the thread diameter or pitch if possible. You can also consult your owner’s manual or an online forum specific to your BMW model.

If the screws are so damaged that size cannot be determined, a standard M8 metric screw will likely fit newer BMWs. For older models, have a mix of both 1/4″-20 and M6 screws on hand to test fit.

Tools You’ll Need to Change BMW License Plate Screws

Replacing your BMW’s license plate screws requires just a few basic tools:

Socket wrench – A ratcheting socket wrench with metric (mm) and standard (inch) attachments is ideal to loosen and torque the screws. A box end wrench can also work.
Replacement license plate screws – Purchase new stainless steel screws in the determined thread size above. M8 and M6 screws are commonly available online and at auto parts stores.
Flathead screwdriver – Useful for prying off the license plate bracket and managing the screws.
Drill – A power drill with bits is needed if removing rusted/damaged screws by drilling them out.
Screw extractors – Specialized tools likeextractors can grip and unscrew stuck screws.
Penetrating oil – Liquid wrench or PB blaster helps loosen seized screws.
Vise grips – Locking pliers can help grab rounded off screw heads.

With these basic tools, you can tackle removing any worn or damaged BMW license plate screws and install new replacements. Buy a dedicated license plate screw kit or purchase screws, washers and bolts individually.

How to Remove Stripped, Rusted or Stuck BMW License Plate Screws

Over time, BMW’s license plate screws exposed to the elements can become rusted in place or the heads can strip making removal difficult.

Here are some methods to extract stuck screws:

Use penetrating oil – Spray liquid wrench or PB blaster on the threads and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The oil will seep into crevices and help break the rust bond. Retighten and loosen the screw afterwards when the oil has worked its way in.

Vise grips – Attach locking pliers to the screw head and slowly twist out the seized screw. Take care not to strip the head when gripping with vise grips.

Drill out screws – For screws with damaged heads, use a power drill to carefully drill into the screw shaft. Start with a smaller bit and gradually increase size as the hole deepens. Eventually the head and shaft can be drilled away completely to remove the screw. Wear eye protection as drilling may cause debris to fly.

Screw extractors – These specialty tools bite into the metal as you turn them counterclockwise. The threaded extractors back themselves out, pulling the old screw with them. Apply downward pressure when turning to keep the extractor engaged.

Hammer and punch – Place a punch tip on the screw head and hit firmly with a hammer. The vibration and impacts can help break the screw free.

With patience and penetrating oil, most seized screws will eventually come out. Drilling and extractors work well when other methods fail.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing BMW License Plate Screws

Once you have determined the correct replacement screw size and removed the old screws, follow these steps to properly install new BMW license plate screws:

1. Remove the License Plate

Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the corner of the license plate bracket from the bumper. Go slowly to avoid cracking the plate frame. Remove the bracket and detach the license plate.

2. Clean Screw Holes

Use a wire brush and shop towel to clean out any dirt, debris or rust from the screw holes in the bumper. This allows the new screws to thread in smoothly.

3. Install New Screws

Place the license plate bracket and license plate against the bumper lined up with the screw holes. Insert the new license plate screws by hand initially to ensure they thread correctly.

4. Partially Tighten Screws

Once all the new screws are threaded a few turns, use the socket wrench to tighten them progressively in a crisscross pattern. Do 2-3 turns on one screw, then move to the opposite. This evenly draws the plate flush.

5. Torque the Screws

With all screws threaded evenly into the bumper, now fully tighten them to the proper torque spec. For most BMW models this is approximately 15-20 ft-lbs. Do not overtighten.

6. Check Alignment

Make sure the license plate is centered and sits flush against the bumper with no gaps. Adjust slightly loosened screws as needed until the alignment is correct.

7. Install Screw Caps

BMW license plate screws often have plastic caps that clip over the screw head providing a clean, finished look. Make sure to press on the cap to fully seat it.

And that’s it! Properly torqued screws with thread locker will resist loosening. Inspect the license plate mount every so often and retighten screws as needed.

Where to Buy Replacement BMW License Plate Screws

Only use quality stainless steel screws specifically designed for license plate mounting. Here are some good options:

BMW dealership parts counter – Genuine BMW license plate screws are available at the parts department. These are more expensive but meet OEM specifications.

Auto parts stores – Stores like AutoZone and O’Reilly often stock common metric license plate screws. Not likely to have BMW-specific screws.

Online retailers – Websites like BimmerWorld, Turner Motorsports and BMP Tuning offer license plate hardware kits or individual screws for BMWs.

Amazon – Search for terms like “BMW license plate screws”, metric screws M6 or M8 to find listings with Prime shipping. Read reviews and look for stainless steel.

Genuine BMW screws can cost $3-5 each while quality aftermarket screws are around $1-2 apiece. Buy a set of 4 or more to have spares handy for the next time you need to replace your BMW’s license plate screws.

Conclusion

Replacing the specialized license plate screws on your BMW is made simple by following this guide. The process only requires basic automotive tools most DIYers would have on hand in their garage.

Start by properly identifying which screw thread size your BMW model uses – typically M6 or M8 metric on modern cars. After removing the old screws, scrub the mounting holes clean and insert new stainless steel screws. Tighten progressively in a cross pattern until torqued to spec.

With quality screws and mindful installation, your BMW’s license plate will be securely fastened. Proper torque and occasional re-tightening will prevent screws from loosening over time. resolving any stripped or seized screws is manageable using penetrating oil, vise grips, or screw extractors.

Your BMW will be back out on the road looking great with new license plate screws installed. The investment of $10-20 in parts will take care of this routine maintenance issue and keep your car’s exterior in flawless shape.