Ensuring your license plate is securely fastened to your Mercedes-Benz is not just a matter of aesthetics, but also of legal compliance and safety. Many Mercedes-Benz owners may overlook the importance of using the correct license plate screws. Dealerships sometimes use generic screws, leading to loose plates and potential issues. This guide, based on expert knowledge and official Mercedes-Benz parts information, will clarify the mystery surrounding Mercedes-Benz license plate screws, specifically focusing on the correct screws for both the front and rear of your vehicle.
For the front license plate of your Mercedes-Benz, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifies two part numbers for mounting. Part number 0019846429 (5×16) is designed for mounting the front license plate bracket to the bumper itself. However, for attaching the license plate to the bracket, the crucial part is 0019904236 (5×12). This screw is specifically designed as a sheet metal screw. This is essential because the front license plate bracket is typically made of hard plastic and lacks pre-threaded holes. The sheet metal screw effectively self-taps, creating the necessary thread for a secure fit. The 5×12 size ensures the screw is the perfect length for mounting the license plate directly onto the bracket without a license plate frame. While part number 0019846429 (5×16) is longer and intended for bracket mounting, it’s less relevant for the average owner simply replacing license plate screws.
Moving to the rear license plate, the screw requirements are different due to the presence of a metal mounting plate adapter with pre-threaded holes. For the rear, you need metric screws, specifically M6 x 1.0 thread type. The standard length is 16mm, as indicated by Mercedes-Benz part number 007985006197 (M6x16). However, if you intend to mount your rear license plate without a license plate frame, a shorter 10mm length M6 screw is preferable. Using the longer 16mm screws without a frame can lead to two problems: the screw tips may create unsightly marks or even dents on the rear lid, and there might be an unwanted gap between the license plate and the screw head. While finding M6 x 1.0 screws in 10mm length can be challenging at local hardware stores, opting for the OEM 16mm screws necessitates the use of a license plate frame to ensure proper spacing and prevent damage.
In conclusion, while license plate screws might seem like a minor detail, using the correct ones is vital for a secure and damage-free installation on your Mercedes-Benz. Understanding the difference between front (sheet metal screws) and rear (metric M6 screws), and considering the use of license plate frames, will help you avoid loose license plates and potential damage to your vehicle. For genuine Mercedes-Benz license plate screws and other parts, explore mercedesxentry.store to ensure you are using the right components for your vehicle.
