Why Do License Plates Fall Off in Heavy Rain?

[MaggieLynn]

It's not that license plates are more likely to fall off during rainy days, but rather when vehicles are wading through water. This is because the resistance from water when driving through it is hundreds of times greater than the usual air resistance. Many lost license plates were fixed with only two screws, making them easily lifted by water flow. Here are three methods to prevent license plate loss: 1. Slow down: Reduce speed before entering waterlogged sections (do not stall midway). 2. Strengthen: Secure the license plate more firmly by using four screws as required. 3. Bolts: Directly fix the license plate to the bumper with bolts.

[VanAllie]

Last time when driving in heavy rain, my license plate mysteriously fell off, which was really embarrassing! After consulting my mechanic friend, I learned it was mainly because rainwater soaked the glue or double-sided tape securing the plate, softening and weakening its adhesive strength, or water seeped into the screw holes causing rust and loosening. The strong impact of water flow in heavy rain, like a water gun blasting objects, directly knocked the plate off. That's not all—if it falls on the road and someone steps on it or disrupts traffic, it becomes even more troublesome. So, I later made it a habit to check the license plate mounting every quarter and reinforce it with some waterproof tape, which is both cost-effective and hassle-free. Don’t dismiss this as a minor issue—driving in heavy rain comes with many risks, and keeping your vehicle tidy can prevent unexpected incidents.

[DelAaliyah]

After years of driving, I've seen many cases of license plates falling off during heavy rain. The issue usually lies in poor installation quality—either the adhesive isn't waterproof or the screws aren't tightened properly. The rain corrodes and deforms the materials, and the water pressure washes them away. I've dealt with similar situations myself, like when prolonged rainwater exposure caused the license plate frame to rust and expand the gaps. Prevention is simple: choose waterproof adhesive or metal fasteners, and ensure proper sealing during installation. Extending the topic, heavy rain can also lead to brake failure or engine water ingress, so regular vehicle safety checks are crucial, especially before the rainy season. Developing good habits can save a lot of trouble, like avoiding fines for missing plates.

[DeLaura]

License plate washed away by heavy rain? As a car enthusiast, I've researched this! The main causes are rain-induced expansion and contraction at the mounting points, adhesive failure or screw corrosion, with water impact accelerating detachment. Temperature fluctuations also play a role - sudden sun exposure after rain causes material fatigue. I often DIY by applying rust inhibitor to mounting areas to extend lifespan. Also, check if plates are warped from aging and clean accumulated dirt promptly. These simple maintenance steps can significantly reduce risks and ensure driving safety.