Why Do License Plates Fall Off in the Rain?

[LuciaAnn]

Because when a vehicle is driving through water, the resistance from the water is hundreds of times greater than the usual air resistance. Many license plates that are washed away are secured with only two screws, making them easily lifted by the water flow. Here is some relevant information: License Plate: A license plate, commonly known as a vehicle plate, refers to the number plate affixed to the front and rear of a vehicle. They are typically made of aluminum, sheet metal, plastic, or paper, and display the vehicle's registration number, region, and other relevant information. Function: License plates serve as a unique identifier for each vehicle, allowing authorities to determine the vehicle's registered region and access details such as the owner and registration information.

[Eugenia]

That rainy day was really unlucky. I was driving my car home with the rain pattering loudly when suddenly there was a loud bang and a black shadow flashed past the rearview mirror. After stopping, I was shocked to find my rear license plate missing. Upon checking, I discovered that the fixing screws had been rusted by the rain for quite some time, causing the metal to expand and create gaps. The plate must have flown off on the bumpy road. Rainy and humid conditions indeed accelerate the aging of screws and adhesive tapes. Ordinary double-sided tape loses its stickiness when wet, and the impact force from water splashed by other vehicles is strong, especially on the rear bumper, making it more vulnerable. To prevent this, it's essential to regularly replace waterproof-specific adhesive or choose corrosion-resistant screws during installation. Also, pay attention to the tightness of the screws during regular car washes—don't skimp on these small expenses. If you notice any looseness, immediately seek a professional repair shop to reinforce it to avoid accidents on rainy days.

[DiAshley]

I've thought about this issue. License plates are fixed to vehicles using glue or screws. The main reason they slide off in rainy weather is that water molecules soften the adhesive, like how double-sided tape becomes useless when damp. Additionally, metal components corrode and oxidize when exposed to rainwater, causing expansion and deformation that loosens screws, making them prone to falling off. When driving at high speeds on wet roads, water splashes and impacts the rear plate area with considerable force, which old adhesive tapes simply can't withstand. I recommend using waterproof accessories, ensuring surfaces are clean and dry before installation for a secure fit. In areas with frequent rain, regular oiling for rust prevention is a simple and hassle-free maintenance solution.

[DelChristian]

I once installed a license plate myself, but it fell off after a heavy rain because the glue wasn't applied evenly. The rain seeped into the gaps, weakening the adhesive strength, while rust buildup on the screws caused them to jam and loosen. The solution was to reapply waterproof sealant, securely tighten the nuts, and add a layer of waterproof film for protection. Since then, it hasn't fallen off even after rain.