How to Install a Honda License Plate Holder

Most Honda license plate holders attach using two top screws into factory mounting points; for front bumpers without a bracket, you’ll either fit the OEM bracket to the bumper dimples or use a no‑drill tow‑hook mount. Below are step‑by‑step instructions for Honda cars/SUVs and motorcycles, plus tips to avoid damage, vibration, and theft.

What You’ll Need

Gather the right tools and fasteners before you start; Honda models vary, but the items below cover most cars, SUVs, and motorcycles. Using stainless hardware reduces rust, and proper torque prevents cracked plastic or loose plates.

• Phillips screwdriver (No. 2) and flathead screwdriver
• Metric socket set (commonly 8–10 mm) and small torque wrench (inch‑pound or N·m)
• Trim/clip remover (for bumper clips, if needed)
• Stainless M6 x 1.0 screws/bolts (12–16 mm length typically works for car brackets) and washers
• License plate mounting inserts or caps (often supplied with Honda/OEM bracket)
• Optional anti‑theft (tamper‑resistant) bolts
• Blue (medium‑strength) threadlocker
• Masking tape, ruler, marker, center punch/awl
• Drill with 3 mm (1/8 in) pilot and 6–6.5 mm (1/4 in) bits if drilling is required
• Rust‑inhibiting primer/paint for exposed metal (if drilling into metal), and deburring tool
• Thin foam or rubber pads and 3M VHB tape (to prevent rattles/paint rub)
• Clean cloth and isopropyl alcohol (surface prep)

Having these on hand ensures a clean, secure install whether you’re mounting to existing points, adding an OEM bracket, or using a no‑drill solution.

Before You Start: Legal and Fitment Checks

A quick pre‑check avoids mistakes, fines, and sensor issues. Confirm what your Honda requires and where it’s safe to mount.

• Confirm local law: Many regions require a front plate; motorcycles have angle/visibility rules and a plate light requirement.
• Identify factory mounting points: Rear hatches/trunks usually have threaded inserts; some front bumpers have “dimples” for an OEM bracket.
• Check for sensors/radar: Don’t block Honda Sensing radar, parking sensors, or airbag impact zones. Avoid drilling near sensors.
• Look for a tow‑hook port: Many Hondas have a front tow‑eye behind a small bumper cover—ideal for no‑drill brackets.
• Read the owner’s manual or bracket instructions: Model‑specific notes (hardware lengths, locations) are often included.

Once you know your legal requirements and the vehicle’s fastening points, choose the mounting method that matches your model and hardware.

Install on a Honda Car/SUV – Rear Plate

Rear mounting is typically straightforward: most Hondas have two pre‑threaded upper holes or plastic inserts to accept license plate screws. Use the holder/frame between the plate and car if desired.

1. Clean the area with alcohol and dry it. If using foam pads or VHB tape behind the holder, test‑fit first.
2. Align the holder and plate with the upper mounting holes. If your holder includes a backing plate, place it behind the license plate as directed.
3. Insert the two top screws by hand to avoid cross‑threading. Add washers if the holder slots are oversized.
4. Tighten evenly until snug. Typical torque: 1–3 N·m (9–27 in‑lb) into plastic inserts; 3–5 N·m (27–44 in‑lb) into metal. Do not overtighten.
5. Install the lower screws if your holder or vehicle uses four points. If not, consider a small foam pad behind the lower plate edge to prevent vibration.
6. Snap on any decorative caps, and check that the plate doesn’t rattle or contact paint.

The rear plate should sit flat, be fully visible, and resist movement when pressed at the corners. Recheck tightness after a few drives.

Install on a Honda Car/SUV – Front Plate (With or Without Drilling)

Honda front bumpers vary. Many require an OEM bracket that aligns to bumper dimples; others can accept a no‑drill tow‑hook bracket. Choose the approach that fits your bumper and local law.

Using the OEM Front Bracket

This is the cleanest option if your bumper has marked dimples or pre‑installed inserts. The Honda or dealer‑supplied bracket typically uses two screws into the bumper fascia and two for the plate.

1. Locate the bumper dimples or holes at the center front. Hold the OEM bracket against the marks to verify alignment.
2. Apply masking tape over the dimple areas to protect paint; mark centers. If pilot holes are needed, use a 3 mm (1/8 in) bit lightly—only through the plastic fascia.
3. Attach the bracket with the supplied self‑tapping screws. Drive them straight and stop once snug; do not overtighten plastic.
4. Mount the plate and holder to the bracket using M6 screws and washers. Add a dab of blue threadlocker.
5. Tighten to 1–3 N·m (9–27 in‑lb). Confirm the plate clears parking sensors and does not block radar (usually centered, low on bumper).

The OEM bracket keeps the plate centered and stable with minimal impact on sensors or airflow when installed as specified.

Using a No‑Drill Tow‑Hook Bracket

If you prefer not to drill the bumper, a tow‑hook plate mount uses the factory recovery point behind a small cover on the front bumper.

1. Pry off the tow‑hook cover carefully with a plastic trim tool. Thread the bracket’s shaft into the tow‑hook receiver by hand.
2. Orient the bracket plate so the license sits level. Most kits include spacers and slots to fine‑tune height and angle.
3. Tighten the shaft per the kit’s instructions (often 30–50 N·m for the large tow‑eye thread). Use threadlocker if specified.
4. Attach the license plate holder to the bracket using M6 bolts and washers. Torque to 3–5 N·m (27–44 in‑lb).
5. Verify the plate does not interfere with radar, active grille shutters, or front cameras; adjust as needed.

No‑drill mounts are removable and reversible, making them ideal for leased vehicles or pristine bumpers, provided they don’t obstruct sensors.

If Drilling Is Required

Some bumpers lack inserts and need small pilot holes for an aftermarket bracket. Drill only where instructed; avoid reinforced crash structures and sensor zones.

1. Position the bracket centered and level. Use masking tape, measure from known reference points (grille edges), and mark holes.
2. Use an awl/center punch to prevent bit wandering. Drill a shallow 3 mm (1/8 in) pilot hole through the plastic fascia only.
3. Enlarge to 6–6.5 mm (1/4 in) as required by your fasteners. Deburr gently. If you contact metal behind the fascia, stop and reassess.
4. Apply a small amount of rust‑inhibiting primer to any exposed metal (if encountered) and let dry.
5. Attach the bracket with supplied screws/clips. Then mount the plate and holder, tightening to 1–3 N·m.

Measure twice and drill once. Keeping holes to the minimum size and using proper fasteners preserves bumper integrity and appearance.

Install on a Honda Motorcycle

Honda motorcycles typically mount the plate to the rear fender or a tail‑tidy bracket. Ensure legal visibility and illuminate the plate with the OEM or aftermarket plate light.

1. Remove the old bracket/plate if present. Disconnect any plate light connector under the tail section.
2. Position the new holder on the fender or tail‑tidy using the supplied hardware. Use nylock nuts or threadlocker on bolts.
3. Align the plate close to vertical; many jurisdictions allow up to about 30° from vertical—verify your local rule.
4. Route and reconnect the plate light wiring securely away from the tire and exhaust; test with ignition on.
5. Tighten fasteners snugly (typically 3–6 N·m for M5/M6 motorcycle hardware). Check for tire clearance through full suspension travel.

The plate should be clearly visible, firmly mounted, and lit at night. Recheck after your first ride and after any rough roads.

Tips to Prevent Vibration, Corrosion, and Theft

Small upgrades keep your plate quiet, clean, and secure over time, especially in wet or salted climates.

• Use stainless hardware and nylon or rubber washers to prevent rust stains and buzzing.
• Add thin foam pads behind the lower plate edge to stop rattles and protect paint.
• Apply blue threadlocker to bolts to resist loosening; avoid red (high‑strength) for serviceable parts.
• Consider tamper‑resistant bolts if theft is a concern; keep the driver bit in your glove box.
• Avoid covering registration stickers or obstructing cameras/sensors.

These simple steps extend the life of your hardware and reduce the chances of a loose or missing plate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If something doesn’t fit or the plate isn’t secure, check these quick fixes before re‑drilling or buying new parts.

• Misaligned holes: Loosen both screws, re‑center the holder, and retighten evenly; use slotted holes or small washers to gain adjustment.
• Stripped plastic insert: Replace with a new insert or use a plastic expansion anchor sized for M6 screws.
• Rattling: Add foam pads or rubber washers; ensure all screws are snug and evenly torqued.
• Blocked sensors: Shift the bracket slightly or switch to a tow‑hook mount to clear radar/parking sensors.
• Rusty screws: Swap to stainless and apply a light anti‑seize compound on metal‑to‑metal threads.

Most problems come down to alignment, hardware choice, or overtightening—address those, and the plate will sit correctly and stay quiet.

Summary

To install a Honda license plate holder, align the holder with factory rear inserts and tighten two top screws snugly; for the front, use the OEM bracket at bumper dimples or a no‑drill tow‑hook mount, drilling only if necessary. Use stainless hardware, light torque, and threadlocker, and confirm the plate doesn’t interfere with sensors or legal visibility. With careful measuring and the right fasteners, the job takes minutes and yields a clean, secure result.

Can I install a license plate myself?

It’s all coming apart. All right take that out. You might not have like a a case like this but throw it up on there i’m just going to put it. Back phillips in righty tighty or clockwise of course.

How to install front license plate bracket on 2019 Honda CR-V?

Hardware. Once they’re together align the lower mounting holes of the license plate holder with the mounting holes on the attachment bracket securing it with the hardware.

How to attach a license plate holder?

To install a license plate holder, start by cleaning the area where it will be mounted. If using an adhesive mount, ensure the surface is free of debris and dry. If using screws, align the bracket with the mounting holes on your vehicle and secure it with screws, avoiding over-tightening. Finally, attach the license plate to the holder, ensuring it’s properly aligned and secured. 
This video demonstrates how to install a front license plate bracket and the license plate itself: 1mWestside LexusYouTube · Aug 1, 2023
Detailed Steps:

1. 1. Prepare the area: Clean the mounting surface thoroughly with a cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, oil, or grime. 
2. 2. Test the fit: If using an adhesive mount, test-fit the bracket without removing the protective film to ensure proper alignment. 
3. 3. Secure the bracket: If using screws, align the bracket with the mounting holes on your vehicle. Use the appropriate screws (and possibly a drill with the correct bit size) to attach the bracket, ensuring a snug but not overly tight fit. 
4. 4. Install the license plate: If using a frame, place the license plate inside the frame and align the screw holes. Secure the plate and frame to the bracket using screws, tightening them securely but not excessively. 
5. 5. Optional additions: Consider using anti-vibration spacers or foam adhesive pieces to prevent rattling or damage to the vehicle. 
6. 6. Finishing touches: Some frames include hardware hider caps to conceal the screw heads for a cleaner look. 

Key considerations:

• Vehicle make and model: The specific installation method may vary depending on your vehicle’s design and the type of license plate holder you have. 
• Mounting style: Some frames are designed to mount on top of the plate, while others fit around the edges. Choose a frame that matches your preference and the available space. 
• Tightening screws: Avoid over-tightening the screws, as this can strip the plastic or damage the mounting hardware. 
• Security: Ensure the license plate is securely attached to prevent it from rattling or falling off while driving. 

How do you put a front license plate on without drilling holes?

To install a front license plate without drilling holes, you can use a license plate mounting bracket designed for your car, a tow hook mount, or adhesive options like 3M tape or velcro. These methods avoid damaging the car’s paint and are relatively easy to install and remove. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. License Plate Mounting Bracket (No Drill):

• Choose a bracket: Many vehicles come with a factory-designed bracket that attaches to the underside of the bumper, sometimes without requiring drilling. You can also find aftermarket brackets designed for your specific vehicle. 
• Installation: Some brackets may require drilling small holes in the bumper’s underside, but these are often hidden from view. Others may attach using existing mounting points or with adhesive. 
• Advantages: This method is often the most secure and aesthetically pleasing, as it uses the manufacturer’s design or a well-designed aftermarket option. 
• Disadvantages: It may require some research to find the correct bracket for your vehicle. 

2. Tow Hook Mount:

• How it works: This mount attaches to the tow hook opening on the front of your vehicle and provides a base for mounting the license plate.
• Advantages: Easy to install and remove, doesn’t require drilling holes in the bumper.
• Disadvantages: Can block front sensors on some vehicles, potentially causing issues with parking sensors or other systems. 

3. Adhesive Options (3M Tape or Velcro):

• 3M Tape: Automotive-grade 3M tape can be used to adhere the license plate directly to the bumper. 
• Velcro: Sticky-back velcro can be used to attach the license plate to the bumper. 
• Installation: Clean the bumper surface thoroughly with rubbing alcohol before applying the adhesive. 
• Advantages: Easy to apply and remove, doesn’t require drilling. 
• Disadvantages: May not be as secure as other methods, especially in extreme weather conditions or at high speeds. 

4. Other Considerations:

• State Guidelines: Always ensure that your chosen method complies with your local state and DMV regulations regarding front license plate mounting. 
• Sensor Interference: Be mindful of front parking sensors when choosing a mounting location. 
• Aesthetics: Consider how the chosen method will affect the appearance of your vehicle. 

This video shows how to install a front license plate using sticky back velcro: 50sMagnumYouTube · Mar 24, 2018