My 2010 GL450 No Bumper Hole Front Plate Solution

[SirG]

I've seem lots of threads where people "have" to add front plates, but don't want to drill holes in their bumpers. Some folks use the front towhook receptacle option, but this is off center and will not work with cars with parking sensors. Here is my cheap solution. What you need: 1. Bell Automotive 22-1-46230-8 Adjustable Mounting Bracket for License Plate Frame (Autozone ~ $8.00) 2. 1/16' thick by 3/4 " wide aluminum bar (~ $4:00 for 3ft section from hardware store) 3. T-40 Star-Bit (~$4.00) plus 3/8" Round Head Ratchet (~$10.00) 4. 1/4" Drill Bit (not shown) If you already have a ratchet set, then to save some money. DO NOT use a drill to remove or install screws on your car as this may strip you holes. Use a ratchet set.

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[SirG]

Instructions:

1. Disassemble mounting bracket. Sand and spray paint each piece and fastener with any good rust prevention spray paint to prevent rusting. Let dry and add a second coat.
2. Reassemble bracket
3. Cut aluminum bar to dimensions shown. (fig 3)
2. Drill holes per dimensions shown. (Fig 3)
3. Center and attach bracket to aluminium bar.
4. Using T-40 Star-Bit, remove two middle screws for front Chrome Bumper Shield Guard. (fig 4)
5. Attach aluminum bar to Chrome bumper shield using your ratchet set.
6. Adjust bracket as needed. Check all screws for tightness, but don't over tighten.
7. Attach bottom of licence plate to bracket.
8. The END

[ksdprasad]

Nice writeup. i am actually looking for similar, but want to mount near tow hook.

if i mount near town hook, is the parkotronic work?

[ThomasGS4]

I like the idea, but will the plate flex at high speeds and scuff the paint behind it?

[Fourdiesel]

Duct tape!

[SirG]

Towhook location is too close to parktronic. Will not work in my opinion.

[SirG]

Originally Posted by ThomasGS4

I like the idea, but will the plate flex at high speeds and scuff the paint behind it?

Plate does flex a bit, however, I have to push pretty hard for it to touch the bumber when I was testing this out. But like Fourdiesel said, put some duck tape on the back just in case.

[xxGenericSNxx]

I like the creativity. Just have to watch out for careless parallel parkers and bending your braket. But I suppose it'd be easy to bend back.

[SirG]

OK...Drove to NJ and back from IL, ~1700 miles and this thing held steady at highway speeds

[dgiturbo]

Excellent idea. Excellent write up.

Just one question...
Why didn't Mercedes come up with this brilliant solution?

[lowpost]

My soultion: pay the 10 dollar ticket the every year or so I get one. Current holes plugged by black screws, don't notice them and the fron end looks much cleaner.

[SirG]

Thanks :-)

[Cillys]

Originally Posted by lowpost

My solution: pay the 10 dollar ticket the every year or so I get one. Current holes plugged by black screws, don't notice them and the front end looks much cleaner.

I switched from VA to NC, now I'm going to remove the front plate holder and see if i can get plugs from the dealer or a body shop ... i agree no plate on the front is much cleaner look