[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Read this article to learn how to remove and replace your 3D gel number plates safely, using the correct processes to make things easy.
Need to know how to remove and replace your 3D gel number plates safely? We will cover what you need to know in the sections below – it’s a lot easier than you might think, you just need the right tools to get the job done.
At Number Plate Clinic, we love our 3D gel plates and other dimensional plates, along with all the benefits they have. If you are used to standard printed plates, then changing out to gels for the first time might seem daunting. However, once you realise how quick and easy it is, it will just be one more reason to consider getting them.
Find out more about the world of number plates, like the most expensive private plate sold in the UK, why there is no Z in number plates, 2024 private plate laws, the difference between legal and show plates, why carbon gel plates are illegal in the UK, and what to do if your plate falls off. As the best alternative to Halfords, we pride ourselves in our plates, from our fast delivery to our incredible quality.
3D gel number plates are different from their standard counterparts, as the characters have domed resin over them to give them a different effect. Also called 3D gel resin or 3D domed gel plates, they are made with an acrylic or aluminium sheet base and laser cut vinyl characters. The characters are then covered with a polyurethane gel resin, which is what gives the characters that attractive raised profile that we see on these plates – and also why they are called 3D gel resin plates.
Provided you follow the government guidelines on plate manufacturing, which includes materials and spacing, 3D gel plates are legal in the UK and can be seen by cameras, including ANPR and ULEZ. Furthermore, these plates will not stop you from passing your MOT, but should be declared for insurance since they are classed as a modification.
If the time has come for you to install a new number plate, you are going to need to know how to remove and replace your 3D gel number plate safely. As we said, this is relatively straightforward, so you don’t need to stress about it at all.
Just follow the instructions below, and you will have your new plate installed and ready to go in no time.
There is a certain amount of controversy surrounding sticky number plates. Some say that they are perfectly secure and will be flagged in an MOT, while others state that they are very secure and pose no issues at all.
Regardless of your stance on them, removing them from your vehicle is incredibly easy, and it can be done with a quick pull. Gently grab the plate and pull it away from the car, and it will come right off.
Unfortunately, this does pose the risk of security for your plate – if you can pull it off so easily, so can thieves. Because of this, you can use a number plate holder to help make it more secure and deter any illicit activity.
There’s no magic trick to this, and it really is as simple as it sounds. To remove a number plate that has been screwed in, all you need to do is find the appropriate screwdriver to loosen the screws and get them removed.
For this, it would be easiest to use a ratcheting screwdriver. This will allow you to both loosen and tighten screws, and you don’t need to readjust your grip every time.
Now that the old number plate is off, you need to get to replacing it! Let’s go through what you need to know in this part of the process.
You might think that a bit of dirt and grime won’t have any effect on your number plate, but this couldn’t be further from the truth – especially if you are going to be using adhesive to attach your new plate.
Use a deep surface grime remover for the cleaning and once sprayed, leave the cleaner to do its thing for a few minutes. Doing this will ensure that any residue from the adhesive can come off. Be prepared to repeat this a few times for the car to be clean, then dry it off thoroughly.
We sell packs of double-sided sticky pads for number plate installation, which allow for a quick and easy process without needing to drill holes into your plate. The best way to apply these will be to stick them onto the number plate, heat them up slightly and then heat the surface of the vehicle where they will be applied.
When you install this number plate, make sure to firmly hold or press it against the vehicle to allow it to stick properly. Do this for 1– 1 ½ minutes, and you will be good to go.
Alternatively, you could use screws to attach your number plate to the vehicle. This isn’t recommended as it puts holes in the plate, but you can choose whichever option suits you best.
To do this, you need to know how to drill a hole, and decide if you are using regular or anti-theft screws. We suggest using a 5 mm drill bit for this and drill the holes from the back of the plate to ensure that the film isn’t damaged.
Carefully line up the holes – if you don’t then you’re going to need to order a whole new set! Take the time to measure out and mark where you need to drill to make sure you get it right the first time.
There are a few things we would like to point out when removing and replacing your number plates – whether they are 3D gel or not. Bear the following in mind, and you are bound to succeed:
Knowing how to work with your number plate is essential. This means cleaning, removing, and replacing the plate when you need to. While you could get someone else to do it for you, as your vehicle and your plate, it’s your responsibility – so it only makes sense to learn the basics.
If you want to purchase new number plates for your vehicle, why not order from us and get same-day dispatch if you order before 1pm? Read through our terms and conditions, privacy policy and refund policy before making a purchase. You can also learn about our workshop and affiliate program, or find out more by speaking with our customer service if you want to purchase high-quality, DVLA-compliant number plates.
Now that you know how to remove and replace your 3D gel number plates safely, you shouldn’t have an issue the next time you need to do it again. Hopefully this has helped, and you feel confident in doing it yourself![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
