Broken number plate

[Rosanne]

A careless person broke my front number plate when reversing into the space in front of me. When I tried to remove the broken plate I found that it had been fitted with screws with heads that seem to permit only for them to be screwed in and not out. Suggestions please as to how I can get them out. Is there a tool for the job so I don't have to drill the buggers out. Thanks.

[P I Staker]

I would use vice grips.

[djdestiny]

If its got screw caps get them off, once the back part is removed that the screw sits against it will give you more space to get some grips or pliers on the screw head

[Rosanne]

Thanks for the useful advice. I'll give it a go

[kambites]

If you can't get at the sides of the head to grip the screw with pliers, I'd use a Dremel to cut a slot into the head so you can get purchase with a flat-head screwdriver.

[CraigyMc]

kambites said:

If you can't get at the sides of the head to grip the screw with pliers, I'd use a Dremel to cut a slot into the head so you can get purchase with a flat-head screwdriver.

I had this problem with an old elise and ended up just angle-grinding the screwheads off, and poking the remaining screw through the bodywork. The new numberplate went on with sticky pads designed for the purpose, covering up the hole.

[s p a c e m a n]

Anti theft number plate screws, marvellous invention. Not.


http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/181382944802

Snap the plate off, use mole grips to unscrew them.