Why Are License Plates Easily Lost in the Rain?

[OliveDella]

License plates are generally installed on the front bumper. To better protect pedestrians in the event of a collision, the bumper is often made of polyester fiber or modified polypropylene plastic materials. When subjected to water flow impact, the license plate can be pulled off. Preventing License Plate Loss in the Rain: Enhance the vehicle's alarm system; park the car in a secure parking lot, such as a gated residential community or a parking lot with surveillance cameras. Currently, there is a type of anti-theft nut available on the market, also known as a "rivet." The screws used to fix the license plate can be easily unscrewed, but the outer cover of this anti-theft nut is made of stainless steel, making it very hard to pry open unless a power drill is used. This makes it a great tool for preventing license plate theft. When approaching a waterlogged road, first check the depth of the water. If the waves pushed by the vehicle while moving forward do not submerge the license plate, it is safe to proceed. Drive slowly through the waterlogged section and check if the license plate has fallen off afterward. It is best to use four screws for the front license plate, and using bolts and nuts for fixation is even better, as it can greatly reduce the risk of losing the license plate when driving through waterlogged roads. License Plate Replacement Process: Vehicle registration certificate, original and a copy of the vehicle owner's ID card, and fill out the "Motor Vehicle License Plate Application Form" at the vehicle management office. If it is a company vehicle with a lost license plate, the organization code certificate must also be brought along.

[SanValentina]

When I first started driving, I didn't understand why people looked for license plates after the rain. Later, I figured out that metal screws are particularly prone to rust in rainwater. Rainwater contains salt and dirt, which react with iron upon contact, corroding the screw joints. Over years of use, the screw heads loosen, and when it rains, the flowing water washes over the license plate. Especially during heavy rain, mud splashes onto the plate, adding weight and pulling force, causing the plate to fall off. I recommend checking the license plate screws every quarter, applying some grease to prevent rust, or using stainless steel ones. Driving with the wipers on at high speeds can also loosen them, so after parking, simply tap them a few times to listen for any movement as a preventive measure.

[VanCollin]

As a long-distance commuter, I've noticed that sunny days after rain are the best time to find lost license plates—the reason is simple. The license plate screws are usually exposed to the elements, and moisture from rain accelerates rusting, making the screws brittle and prone to breaking. A bumpy ride can easily dislodge them. Rainwater, mixed with mud, also washes into the gaps around the license plate, especially when poor drainage leaves deep puddles on the road. The water jets kicked up by tires can hit the screw areas like bullets, making older cars more vulnerable. From my experience, using a waterproof license plate frame and wiping the screw area dry with a cloth right after rain can prevent dirt buildup and wear.

[StFelix]

Fixing cars yourself makes you realize why license plates fall off more in the rain—loose screws. Rain causes iron screws to rust, crack, or break inside, especially on older cars where the screw holes have widened and can't hold tight. Heavy rain and road vibrations then make them fall off. When tightening with a wrench didn’t work, I switched to stainless steel screws. Before installing, I cleaned the holes thoroughly and added sealant to prevent water seepage—much better prevention.

[StKylie]

From a safety perspective, losing a license plate after rain poses significant risks. Rainwater erodes the screw foundations, while rust and moisture weaken the support, causing the plate to be pulled off by water flow. Driving without a plate not only incurs high fines but also increases the risk of rear-end collisions, especially in rainy or foggy conditions with poor visibility. I recommend using corrosion-resistant screws like 304 stainless steel along with anti-theft frames to secure the plate and prevent it from being washed away by rain.

[BrooklynMarie]

From a technical perspective, the fixation of license plates relies on screw materials. Rainwater corrodes iron components, causing oxidation and brittleness. Water molecules infiltrate gaps and expand, leading to screw loosening or breakage. During rainy days, increased water volume and impact force exert pressure on the license plate, causing it to detach. After understanding this, I switched to fully stainless steel nuts and regularly treated the exterior with anti-rust spray to extend service life and prevent accidents during high-speed driving.