[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]What are 4D gel plates? A complete guide will go through what you need to know about them, so buckle up and get ready to take notes.
In the world of number plates, the 4D plate is the ideal option for enhancing any car’s look, from high-end vehicles to your run-of-the-mill Honda Civic. But… what are 4D gel plates? A complete guide will talk you through what you need to know, from appearance to materials used for making these plates. By the end of this article, you are going to know everything you could possibly need.
At Number Plate Clinic, we answer all your burning questions. From why there is no Z in number plates and how to fit 4D plates to whether carbon gel plates are being replaced by 4Ds, we talk about it all. If you want to find out more, we have plenty for you to explore.
As the best alternative to Halfords for all your plate needs, we would love to supply you with your new favourite modification, 4D hex plates included!
Understanding 4D Number Plates
4D number plates are usually made from laser cut acrylic characters and stuck to an acrylic base with a powerful adhesive. This technique makes the plate three-dimensional and capable of casting shadows if the light hits it.
These plates are attractive and modern, with bold characters, but there are different kinds of 4D plates, including gel options – so let’s find out more.
Types of 4D Plates
There are several different kinds of 4D plates to consider if you are thinking about getting a set for your vehicle. From the regular 3mm 4D plates to the beautiful gel options, make sure to consider everything before making your final decision.
Below are the two kinds of basic 4D number plates you may want to consider:
- 3mm – 3mm 4D plates have characters that are raised 3mm from the plate, offering something different without being too obvious
- 5mm – 5mm 4D plates have characters that are raised 5mm from the plate, offering a more dramatic look from the side or other angles
What Are 4D Gel Plates? A Complete Guide
Alternatively, you can opt for the gel version. The 4D gel plate is a combination between the laser cut characters that the 4D plate uses and the gel effect that 3D gel plates use. The laser-cut characters are coated in a high gloss gel resin to give the plate that beautiful glossy look and make it stand out even more.
These plates also come in 3 and 5mm depth options, and the wet gloss finish pulls everything together beautifully
- 3mm – 3mm gel plates have characters that are raised 3mm from the plate with a beautiful gel dome to add some shine and a glossy effect, while not being too in-your-face
- 5mm – 5mm gel plates have characters that are raised 5mm from the back of the plate with the classic domed, glossy finish, making your excellent style choice obvious to everyone
What Are the Disadvantages of 4D Gel Number Plates?
Like anything, there are some disadvantages to consider if you are thinking about getting 4D gel plates compared to other types of number plates. We will explore these below, so you know exactly what you are getting into if you choose to purchase these attractive and stylish plates.
Cost of 4D Gel Plates
You should expect to pay between £70 to £165 for 4D number plates, while a 3D plate will set you back between £60 and £65. If you just want a printed plate, however, you will pay £30 for a set.
Long-Term Weathering
4D gel plates are prone to discolouration if they are left in the sun for prolonged periods of time. The elements can have a detrimental impact on the appearance and can cause fading, but the adhesive should not necessarily be affected.
Careful Maintenance
4D gel number plates should never be pressure washed, and no harsh cleaning chemicals can be used, as these could both destroy the adhesive and the gel resin. When cleaning 4D gel plates, gentle soap or simply water and a soft sponge is typically more than adequate, and this will ensure that the adhesive is not negatively impacted.
Challenging Installation
It’s also worth pointing out that installing these number plates can be more challenging compared to other types due to the style and materials. Careful installation is required to ensure the plates are not broken and damaged, which can render them illegal. We recommend installing these plates with double-sided sticky pads or using a plate holder to secure them rather than screws.
These plates are visible to cameras, ANPR, and ULEZ, and they are made using fully DVLA-compliant and legal materials if you get them from a registered seller like us. You will not fail your MOT if you have 4D gel plates, unless you cut your plate down, don’t follow the 2024 private plate laws, or have carbon gel plates.
4D gel number plates should be declared when doing vehicle insurance, since any plate other than the standard printed ones are a modification. Although 4D gel plates are legal and there are no plans for them to become illegal, there have been cases where drivers have been wrongfully fined for having them. If you are fined for having 4D plates, we encourage you to dispute it and get the issue resolved if you are not in the wrong.
Below are the number plate regulations that will determine if a number plate is road legal or not:
- Not have reflective characters (letters, numbers)
- Not have removable characters (letters, numbers)
- Be made with a background of reflective material
- Have a plain background, with no pattern or distracting characteristics
- Front plates must have black characters on a white background
- Back/rear plates must have black characters on a yellow background
- Show who supplied the number plate (mark of provider is required)
- Have a British Standard number for any plates fitted after the first of September 2021
- Must have characters written in the Charles Wright 2001 font
- Can have raised characters (3D & 4D plus their gel variations)
- Can display certain identifiers such as flags or symbols
Why Not Order a Number Plate From Us?
If you want to get yourself a pair, you can order them from us easily (and certainly much easier than Halfords).
To order a number plate from us, you are going to need to input information such as your registration, the plate type you want (and how many), if you want legal or show plates, the type of fitting you want, and any additional notes.
To order any kind of number plate through us, follow these steps:
- Head to a trusted number plate provider, like us
- Input the necessary information we went through above
- Provide proof of vehicle ownership (V5C or V5CNI logbook, V5C/2 or V5C/2NI new keeper slip, or the V778 certificate)
- Provide a valid ID (utility bill, passport, or driving licence)
- Pay for the plate, and we’ll get it made!
As long as you can provide all the information that we need, the process will be quick and straightforward, and you can get your plate delivered to you in no time.
Get Your Next Number Plate at Number Plate Clinic
At Number Plate Clinic, we look at why 4D plates are the best alternative to standard plates, 4D plate trends and predictions, explore all the top reasons to upgrade your vehicle to 4D plates, and much more.
Find out if 4D plates are worth it, how thick they can be, and if you can bend them. If you have ever asked yourself what the point of 4D plates are, then we can even help with that, too.
So, in our “what are 4D gel plates? A complete guide’, we have said that they are the same as regular 4D plates initially, then the characters are covered with a high gloss gel resin to give them a domed, wet appearance.
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