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My license plate screw is stuck–what do I do?

I just moved and was right in the middle of swapping out my license plate for my new one, but one of the screws won’t budge. What do I do if my license plate screw is stuck?

avatar
Natalie Todoroff · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Here’s what to do if your license plate screw is stuck:
  • First things first: don’t try and yank it out! You could end up
    scratching your car’s paint
    in the process.
  • WD-40: You’ll find this penetrating oil lubricant in almost every mechanic’s garage because it works wonders on stubborn parts. Just spray some on and let it sit for about 15 minutes, then give it another go.
  • White vinegar: This is especially handy if your screw is rusty, as the vinegar can help dissolve the rust. Apply either directly to the screw or dab it on with a small towel, then try unscrewing it again.
  • Use heat: First go in with a water-based degreaser (like a mixture of vinegar and baking soda), then apply heat with a small torch to the rusted screws. Once the screw is hot, pour cold water over it and that should help ease it out.
  • Steel wool: Placing some steel wool over the license plate screw head helps ensure a tight grip with a screwdriver, which can help get it out.
Hopefully one of these methods does the trick and that you’re able to get that pesky screw out! If you’ve just moved states and need to swap out your license plate, we’d also recommend that you take a minute (and we really only mean a minute) and check on your
car insurance
policy with a little help from
Jerry
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