So, my state requires a front license plate. I'm concerned that if I use the bolts on the bottom of the license plate, the top may flap and hit the bumper + area and scratch or cause some minor damage. However, if I use the bolts on the top of the plate, I fear it may scrape some of the overly-huge speed humps we have around here.

So, is there a license plate backer, or some sort of padding you can recommend? My search for 'license plate holder' only comes up with frames, not holders.

What do you guys recommend?

 

you can put up a WTB in the FS/WTB section for a license plate bracket. you can usually score on one for <$20 since most just run without it.

 

The universal type found in most stores work.

 

There are some hidden blind nuts built into the grill, for use with the stock license plate bracket. They may be of use with an aftermarket holder like Expo1 recommended. If those are not in a suitable position, large self-tapping screws work well. I moved my stock holder down one diamond, and it's stayed in place for the past three years with self-tapping screws.

Check out the DIY forum for threads like "license plate relocation" for mounting ideas if you don't like the standard middle of the grill position.

Ken

 

I still have the OEM bracket and compared the mounting holes to the universal one. The aftermarket bracket will be able to use the same nuts as the OEM bracket.

 

I haven't actually looked to see if there's anything in the middle, but the dealer put my temp tags in the lower driver side of the bumper.

 

That's not Mazda's official mounting spot, although some people prefer that to the middle of the grill. So did he drill holes in the bumper to do that?

I presume this is a pre-owned car.

Ken

 

I'm in VA which also requires the front plates... Boo.
My current dilemma is, the air and wind drop driving is now pushing the top of my front plate forward, bowing it. It is screwed in to the bottom because of how the frame is attached. The frame doesn't have the little lipping on the top to hold it in place oddly enough so now I'm trying to find a frame or something to go around it to prevent it from doing that. I'd prefer to not have it at all but alas....

 

Magnetic look around the net for others in your state/area who run without front plates, it might not be a big deal. I know its illegal in las vegas to not have a front plate but 60%+ of the cars out there have no front plate and some even still use the bracket without the plate lol. I have had no front plate on for over 2 years now and never had any issues.

You could just run without it until you get the ticket, then find a bracket and put a front plate on and they should dismiss the ticket. That is if you ever even get a ticket.