Licence Plate Security Nuts?

[oberah]

Hi, ive got a 2009 nissan versa sedan. There have been licence plates being stolen in the neighborhood, no clue why, was wondering if anyone can recommend any locking bolts for these? They come with regular bolts, was wondering where to buy and if anyone has any good suggestions.
Thanks!!!

 

[Stu_Rock]

I use security Torx screws on my license plates. McMaster has them in stainless steel.

There are dozens of other "security" heads, but most are probably steel only.

 

[qdeezie]

Try searching for hex or torx bit license plate screws from a parts store or do a search on ebay using the keywords "license plate theft"

 

[SWSportsman]

Originally Posted By: oberah
...no clue why...


You can buy kits like this:

http://www.banoggle.com/products/cruiseraccessories/81330.aspx?source=googlebase

...or make your own. The key is to use lock nuts of some kind on the back, especially if access is restricted, like it is on my truck. Makes it hard to change your plates when you need to, but provides just enough of an obstacle that most thieves will just move on to easier pickings.

As to the why, it gives the thief an unexpired license plate to drive around on for a while. They steal them around where I live just to put on while in the city. They can park anywhere they want and let the ticket be sent to you.

 

[Bob Woods]

Before Texas changed to windshield stickers we had that problem, I used pop rivits and never had one ripped off.

 

[casperfun]

Just go to a hardware store and buy those screws that use a allen wrench or the hexagon head bolts. At one time I use one of each on both sides so you would need 2 different tools to remove. Enough for a burgler to move on to the next plate I am sure. Just a couple of bucks for cheap screws.

 

[eljefino]

+1 on drilling through to the trunk and putting a regular nut & bolt on. It'll just spin on "lootie" and never come off.

If one were truly evil they could put a little switch on the inside of the trunk up against the nut so when it starts spinning it sets off the car alarm.

 

[severach]

I use the stainless steel pan head internal hex with a rubber washer from Home Depot. They can be removed with a pliers but not easily.

 

[Stu_Rock]

I got the McMaster number for the stainless #14 security Torx screws that I use. They are 95638A314.

They also have stainless spanner-head security screws in the #14 size, 94065A313.

For cars that take 1/4-20 machine screws, there are also a lot of security-head choices. For cars that take M6-1.0 screws, not so much.

 

[Hokiefyd]

I bought some screws that are security hex head. Like a Torx head with a post in the middle (security feature), but a hex head instead. Came as a kit with a small wrench. It's still not impossible to remove them, but as someone said earlier, a thief will likely move on to an easier score.