Buy BMW 320i License Plate Bracket

Below is a concise summary, followed by detailed, well-organized sections that cover everything most readers want to know about a BMW 320i license-plate bracket (also called a plate holder, tag mount, frame, or carrier).

Basics

The license-plate bracket keeps the metal registration tag firmly on the bumper. On BMW 320i sedans (2012-2018 F30 generation and newer G20 models) the front mount fastens to pre-molded holes in the bumper cover, while the rear plate bolts to a plastic base that clips to the trunk lid. When fitted correctly, the bracket sits flat, keeps the plate from rattling, and avoids scraping paint on the bumper surface (YouTube).

Fit & Years

• Front: Most U.S.-spec 320i cars use the same two-hole front pattern shared with 328i/330i. M Sport bumpers need a slightly wider bracket, but the screw spacing (≈210 mm center-to-center) is unchanged (Bimmerpost).
• Rear: BMW supplies a rectangular plastic base that snaps into factory slots; it accepts four M5 screws to secure the plate (Bimmerpost G20).
• Tow-hook adapters: On cars without pre-drilled bumpers (or owners who refuse to drill), a threaded tow-hook style mount is popular. It angles the plate off-center and clears crash sensors when adjusted correctly (Bimmerpost G20).

Materials

Most brackets are molded ABS plastic. Tests show plastic weighs less, resists rust, and equals stainless steel for day-to-day strength (EveryAmp). Metal frames (usually powder-coated stainless) look premium but can trap moisture against paint if a rubber gasket is not used.

Legal Rules

• Two-plate states: California Vehicle Code §5200 requires a front and rear plate on passenger cars (Leginfo).
• Texas: Transportation Code §504.943 carries a fine for missing a front plate (Texas Statutes).
• General trend: 31 U.S. states demand two plates; most of Canada does as well (Wikipedia). Check local law before deleting the bracket.

Installation Steps

1. Gather hardware - 2 × M5-0.8 × 8-12 mm stainless screws (front) and 4 × M5-0.8 × 8 mm (rear) (E90Post, Bimmerfest).
2. Prep bumper - Clean with isopropyl alcohol so the gasket seals well (YouTube).
3. Position bracket - Align with molded dimples; use painter's tape to mark level.
4. Fasten - Hand-tighten to about 2 N·m (BMW's "trim-screw" spec is 1.8 - 2.2 N·m) to avoid cracking plastic (Bimmerpost).
5. Attach plate - Place rubber washers between plate and bracket to cut vibration (YouTube).
6. Check sensors - Make sure the bracket edge sits below the front parking distance control (PDC) lens so it does not trigger false beeps (Bimmerpost).

Hardware Facts

• Screw size: M5-0.8 thread is standard on most BMW trunk and bumper inserts (Bimmerpost G20).
• Torque: "Trim bolt" tables list 2 N·m (≈18 in-lb) for these fasteners (Bimmerpost).
• Anti-seize: A dab of silicone grease stops galvanic corrosion between the steel insert and stainless screw.

Aerodynamics

Wind-tunnel hobby tests show the drag difference from adding a flat license plate is tiny-well under 1 percent at highway speed (EcoModder). On daily drives you will not notice any fuel-use change.

Care & Longevity

• Rinse away road salt to prevent screw seizure.
• Replace cracked plastic once it becomes chalky; UV-aged ABS loses strength after ~8-10 years (EveryAmp).
• Tighten loose screws promptly; rattling can elongate mounting holes.

Custom Looks

Owners often wrap the bracket in gloss-black vinyl or body-color paint so it "disappears" on the bumper (Reddit). Slim carbon-fiber frames are another light option and usually weigh <50 g.

Troubleshooting

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will a front tag holder hurt my gas mileage?
A: Real-world and forum tests show almost no change-less than 1 % drag, which is too small to notice (EcoModder).

Q: What screw size does a BMW 320i use?
A: Use metric M5-0.8 thread, 8-12 mm long, stainless if possible (Bimmerpost G20, E90Post).

Q: Can I drive without the bracket in a one-plate state?
A: In states that issue only a rear plate, you may leave the front bracket off, but confirm your DMV's rule first (Wikipedia).

Q: How tight should the screws be?
A: About 2 N·m (18 in-lb)-just snug with a screwdriver. Over-tightening can strip the insert (Bimmerpost).

Q: Does the bracket fit other 3-Series models?
A: Yes, 328i, 330i, and 335i of the same body style share the same mounting holes (Bimmerpost).

Q: What if my bumper has no holes?
A: Use a tow-hook-style mount or drill pilot holes following the dimple marks on the inner bumper skin (Bimmerpost G20).

Q: Will it block adaptive cruise sensors?
A: If centered and low on the bumper, it clears the ACC radar on most trims. Off-center mounts can avoid the sensor entirely (Bimmerpost).

Q: Plastic or metal-what lasts longer?
A: Quality ABS resists rust and holds up as long as stainless in daily use, while weighing less (EveryAmp).

Q: How do I stop the plate from vibrating?
A: Add foam pads or rubber washers between the plate and bracket and keep screws tight (YouTube).

By understanding fitment, state laws, correct hardware, and simple maintenance, any owner can mount a BMW 320i plate bracket that is legal, secure, and tidy.