Hi all,

I need to install a front license plate on a 2006 Volvo S40. I'm planning on picking up either a Dorman bracket or the Volvo S40 OEM bracket so that the plate doesnt bend.

My question is: what type of screws or bolts should I use to ensure the bracket and plate just can't be ripped off front the front of the vehicle. (I have a special plate that has a lot of sentimental value to me and I have to park in a rougher part of town.). It feels like the front bumper is only a few mm thick, and any thief could just apply outward pressure on the entire bracket and all the self tapping screws (4) would just rip out.

I think there is a steel bar (the actual bumper) behind the plastic bumper (with some space in between). Should I attempt to drill into the steel bar from the plastic bumper?

Thanks for any advice you can provide.

Rob

 

You can remove the entire front bumper cover to get to the back side. I'm betting you could bolt on a backing plate to distribute the load. It would be very difficult to just rip it off. If you use something like smooth head bolts and nylock nuts you will be set.

I'm lucky to live in a cheap state that only requires one plate.

 

We use expanding barrel nuts

 

Thanks for the quick responses. I was hoping to find a way to secure the license plate that didn't require removing the entire front bumper. I'm not too familiar with expanding barrel nuts. Does that method also require removal of the front bumper?

I'm also thinking about removing the front grill in order to see if I can access the rear of the front bumper.

Would anyone recommend drilling all the way through the plastic bumper cover and into the steel bumper. It seems like the steel bumper is only a short distance from the plastic portion. Thank you.

 

I'm also considering one of those platypus no drill mounts, but I imagine that would be even easier to steal unless you unscrew it everytime you run into the grocery store.

 

Barrel nuts do not require any extra work. Drill a hole and insert the nut. Then line up the bracket and insert the screw into the nut. As it tightens, the barrel nut compresses against the bumper and expands, holding it in place.

 

Is there another name for these types of barrel nuts? I did a quick search for them, but I didn't see any fastener that expands like you describe. Thanks for your help. This sounds like a good option that doesn't require removing the bumper.

 

Ok, I think I found what you were describing. Will give it a go. I appreciate the recommendations!