Just got my 2003 540i with MSport package from CA and registered it in VA. I now need to place tags on the front bumper as reguired by VA and I can't bear to drill holes in the newly painted bumper, plus it takes away from the look. Has anyone have a get around for this without putting holes in the bumper? Thanks
Well, we all have different priorities. Mine would be to MOVE the heck outta of a state that requires a front plate.....before I add a front plate to my M-Sport. The front air dams on these babies are an art form and need to be seem unencumbered..... I feel your pain man!! MOVE!!!! m
It should have had a front plate in Cali! http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=DN53&mospid=47588&btnr=51_3723&hg=51&fg=15 You need part #9, but I don't know how it attaches.
I've bought mine in a state with no front license plate - the plate holder was tucked away in the trunk in a plastic bag. It installs without drilling, mounting holes are hidden in the middle opening. Having to deal with previously installed front plate holders, I can tell you that it *will* scratch the paint underneath, so you might want to take additional measures to protect it. I'd say double sided stickers, but that chemistry might deteriorate the clear coat anyway. So yes, looks like you will be taking a hit this way or that - my commiserations in advance.
About 3M clear protectors - when I was buying my car, I was against them out of prejudice, having not seen one before. Thought they'll be visible and spoil the car. Turned out, I was wrong - and when I saw one installed, I regretted that I haven't installed one on my car - but alas, it was too late, chips have settled in. Thanks for suggestion, Paul, that'll definitely do it.
ON a related issue: Can you use the clear tape on a repainted hood? If so, how long after the repaint before you can apply it? Thanks, Dmarque
Yup but a lotta ppl out here in CA refuse to install the plate holder for the same reason. I have always wanted to delete the front plate but I'm a chicken. LOL
You can mount it using the front tow hook recepticle. This saves you from having to drill holes. I am glad I am here in Penna! No front plate! Sorry to rub it in! Here are a bunch of websites. http://www.images.gominigo.com/INSTRUCTIONS-GMG_NOHOLES_02-06.pdf http://www.schattenbaum.org/TechArticles/FrontLicensePlateMountUsingTowHook.aspx http://www.ultimatez.com/shop/?shop=1&itemid=511 http://forums.vwvortex.com/zerothread?id=3863607 http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=329699 http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=666564
Thanks Grant, The second site looks like the way to go. The Mower Deck Axle Co has a kit for the E39 for $89.95 plus $10.00 shipping.
Identical Cars Xander: I'm the wise guy who said to move out of state instead of putting a plate on the nose. Just wanted to say....our cars are identical. I also have a titanium 2003 540 M-Sport. Still love the car....she's cherry too!
An Aside about Paint Film Protection: Since your post I looked into the 3M Protection Film. We happen to have one of the best installers in the country here in Grand Rapids. They educated me on the importance of custom cut film and moved me away from using pre-cut sections. They also introduced me to a similar but better product by VPS Protection Film and how these 2 companies recently merged to be able to handle a variety of applications. It's all about getting a VERY experienced installer when you put this stuff on. I had it installed on my newly repainted car. It is fabulous stuff. Nice touch to add to lower rear panels too. Pretty expensive to do this but it was worth it to me. VPS Film: http://www.vpsprotection.co.za/Homepage/homepage.html 3M: http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/Scotchgard_Paint_Protection/Film
we are required to have a plate in IL too- I dont put one on and havent for the past 27 years. My wife has gotten pulled over once or twice with warnings.
Atta Boy!!! We must be of similar priorities. I'd do the same if I had to live in Illinois. If you have much more trouble though you are welcome to move over here to Grand Rapids where one rear plate is sufficient.
the state of illinois has a bill on the floor getting rid of front plates in the state!!! heres a link http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/bil...0&GA=96&DocTypeID=HB&LegID=49360&SessionID=76
Terrific........... I wonder how they'll justify whatever government reasoning they originally concocted for requiring a front plate in the first place.....
The move to get rid of them is strictly economical, it has nothing to do with ehy they were required in the first place.
Of course the reason was economical and most likely political as well.......BUT it seems hypocritcal to REQUIRE and ticket people for not posting their plates on both front and back for years and then to determine one day that no fine will be levied. If it was so darned important to mount plates on the front that you received a citation for not doing so.....it's sure is hypcritical to suddenly say that is no longer an offense......
