Advice on removing seized license plate bolts

[Rewted]

Need some suggestions on removing seized rear license plate bolts. All four black bolts simply spin or don't move at all. Not really keen on drilling them out.

[S65V8]

Originally Posted by tyrewt

Need some suggestions on removing seized rear license plate bolts. All four black bolts simply spin or don't move at all. Not really keen on drilling them out.

I had the same problem in my last car, I ended up having to cut the tops of the bolts off with some meaty cutting pliers. Problem solved.

[MilehighM3]

Just get something behind the license plate to put a little outward pressure on it and use a cordless drill. The threads are brass inserts into plastic, so a little speed and pressure (not a lot) will allow them to pop out of the bracket. You'll need a new license plate bracket and proper screws.

[gimmethemuumuu]

I have had this problem on all of my BMW's. PITA but what are you gonna do.

If the plate is going bye-bye, you can bend it back out of the way to get to the bolts holding the plate holder to the car. Then, you can work at removing the seized bolts holding the plate to the holder.

Once you go to put re-affix the plate to a new holder, or if your bolts haven't yet seized up on your current holder, simply apply grease or anti-seize to the bolt threads to ensure the metals don't react and seize again--great tip from my neighbor!