Sto N Sho - Removable Front License Plate

[f80er]

I agree 💯

[oneknightr]

Checked out a few front license plate threads and have pretty much decided to get this one (upper mounted). I have a couple of questions:

1) Is using just the supplied tape enough to hold it in place or do I need to buy some 3M Automotive double-sided tape?

2) Even though the attached picture shows tape, the description says: "Big Mike's Performance Parts STO N SHO requires small holes to be drilled on the underside of your vehicle. These holes are not visible and in no way detract from the look of your car." Do I have to drill holes even though I'm using the tape method? I've also seen a different upper mount version with a white plastic piece (2nd picture) that looks like it needs to be inserted in the bumper.

3) Does it rattle? From all the videos I've seen, there is a bit of play when you push up on it. Not a deal-breaker but I'm curious.

Thanks!

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by oneknightr

Checked out a few front license plate threads and have pretty much decided to get this one (upper mounted). I have a couple of questions:

1) Is using just the supplied tape enough to hold it in place or do I need to buy some 3M Automotive double-sided tape?

2) Even though the attached picture shows tape, the description says: "Big Mike's Performance Parts STO N SHO requires small holes to be drilled on the underside of your vehicle. These holes are not visible and in no way detract from the look of your car." Do I have to drill holes even though I'm using the tape method? I've also seen a different upper mount version with a white plastic piece (2nd picture) that looks like it needs to be inserted in the bumper.

3) Does it rattle? From all the videos I've seen, there is a bit of play when you push up on it. Not a deal-breaker but I'm curious.

Thanks!

Per my post #31 (https://f80.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...6&postcount=31) I used a small screw in addition to the supplied tape. Gives a lot more confidence. Mine does not rattle at all.

[Rockshaker]

I used the screw and tape as well. I couldn't imagine the damage it would cause if it came off at high speed. I've had no issues since installing over a year ago.

[x.shell]

Originally Posted by oneknightr

Checked out a few front license plate threads and have pretty much decided to get this one (upper mounted). I have a couple of questions:

1) Is using just the supplied tape enough to hold it in place or do I need to buy some 3M Automotive double-sided tape?

2) Even though the attached picture shows tape, the description says: "Big Mike's Performance Parts STO N SHO requires small holes to be drilled on the underside of your vehicle. These holes are not visible and in no way detract from the look of your car." Do I have to drill holes even though I'm using the tape method? I've also seen a different upper mount version with a white plastic piece (2nd picture) that looks like it needs to be inserted in the bumper.

3) Does it rattle? From all the videos I've seen, there is a bit of play when you push up on it. Not a deal-breaker but I'm curious.

Thanks!

I wouldn't be hesitant to put a small hole on the bumper that isn't visible, given the front bumper takes so much damage over years from rocks and debris. The extra security is worth it IMO.

Originally Posted by Rockshaker

I used the screw and tape as well. I couldn't imagine the damage it would cause if it came off at high speed. I've had no issues since installing over a year ago.

That's a good point. I didn't even think about what would happen if it ripped off at high speed. This is a solid aluminum apparatus that would wreak havoc if you ran over it. I mounted mine with a pretty big screw and it's been solid since the day I started this thread. I take my plate on and off about 6 times daily.

[Alan l.]

I use the screw with mine as well. I also made sure I cleaned the double sided tape contact area really good and heated up the tape before installing it to the car. No issues at all and simply the best front plate solution for this car. No rattling and I love how i can remove it in seconds for photos or when i'm washing the car to get behind it.

Also as a tip I used doubled sided tape to attach the license plate frame to the plate, then used double sided tape to attach the plate to the stonshow. Keeps it as slim as possible and nothing sticking out pointing at your bumper.

Alan

[x.shell]

Originally Posted by Alan l.

I use the screw with mine as well. I also made sure I cleaned the double sided tape contact area really good and heated up the tape before installing it to the car. No issues at all and simply the best front plate solution for this car. No rattling and I love how i can remove it in seconds for photos or when i'm washing the car to get behind it.

Also as a tip I used doubled sided tape to attach the license plate frame to the plate, then used double sided tape to attach the plate to the stonshow. Keeps it as slim as possible and nothing sticking out pointing at your bumper.

Alan

Good idea on the tape for the plate.

For people who wanna use a plate frame, I bought something called a Chicago Screw. It's very flat with nothing sticking out. You can sandwich the frame > plate > sto n sho.

Here's a link to the ones I bought.

https://www.amazon.com/Springfield-L.../dp/B00BFCTAE4

[Rellik_jre]

I used only the supplied tape. Only time i mount the plate is when I park to avoid ticket while I'm away from the car.

[oneknightr]

Originally Posted by x.shell

Good idea on the tape for the plate.

For people who wanna use a plate frame, I bought something called a Chicago Screw. It's very flat with nothing sticking out. You can sandwich the frame > plate > sto n sho.

Here's a link to the ones I bought.

https://www.amazon.com/Springfield-L.../dp/B00BFCTAE4

Thanks for this! Details page says they are made of steel. Have they started rusting or are they coated?

[oneknightr]

I thought I had it all figured out and then I started reading about the Carbonio front plate mount (https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...e+plate+holder). Now I'm wavering between the two.

Sto N Sho

Pros: Plate sits higher and doesn't cover intake area as much as the Carbonio. Cost $85 on eBay (10% eBay Bucks promo running today and tomorrow which lowers cost a bit more). Can be taken off easily with a pull of a pin.
Cons: Will most likely need to drill a hole to ensure the bracket is secure.

Carbonio
Pros: No hole drilling needed. Can be removed as well but not as easy as the Sto N Sho.
Cons: $130 total with shipping. Covers more of the intake area compared to the Sto N Sho. Unsure if attaching to grill poses any long term issues (loosening grill).

For me, it comes down to hole vs no hole and ~$50 price diff. Decisions, decisions.

[Alan l.]

^^ no way i would go with the carbonio. Doesn't look as good being lower, blocks more radiator cooling and def. not as secure mounting to the flexible grill.

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by oneknightr

I thought I had it all figured out and then I started reading about the Carbonio front plate mount (https://f87.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh...e+plate+holder). Now I'm wavering between the two.

Sto N Sho

Pros: Plate sits higher and doesn't cover intake area as much as the Carbonio. Cost $85 on eBay (10% eBay Bucks promo running today and tomorrow which lowers cost a bit more). Can be taken off easily with a pull of a pin.
Cons: Will most likely need to drill a hole to ensure the bracket is secure.

Carbonio
Pros: No hole drilling needed. Can be removed as well but not as easy as the Sto N Sho.
Cons: $130 total with shipping. Covers more of the intake area compared to the Sto N Sho. Unsure if attaching to grill poses any long term issues (loosening grill).

For me, it comes down to hole vs no hole and ~$50 price diff. Decisions, decisions.

The hole is a non-issue in my mind. Even if you were to move to a non-front plate state and remove the bracket a small hole in that location will not be seen from normal viewing angles.

[oneknightr]

Sto N Sho bought! Thanks for the advice and help!

[Mr. Hankey]

Originally Posted by oneknightr

Sto N Sho bought! Thanks for the advice and help!

It's great. A bit late to the thread.

I intially only used double sided 3M tape but left the plate mounted for 3-4 weeks and it started to get loose. Removed, re-taped and used the screw. Been solid since.

[oneknightr]

Originally Posted by rhk118

It's great. A bit late to the thread.

I intially only used double sided 3M tape but left the plate mounted for 3-4 weeks and it started to get loose. Removed, re-taped and used the screw. Been solid since.

Thanks for the info on your experience! Mine should be delivered either today or tomorrow. I've pretty much decided to use the screw just to be sure it stays on. The hole being on the underside and practically unnoticeable made it an easier decision.

[M 4 FUN]

Here in Sweden it's very popular to use magnets that you put on the backside of the bumper so you easily can remove the numberplate.

[TomSawyer]

Will this work on a 2019 M4? STO N SHO website says compatible with 2015-2018

[GregW / Oregon]

Originally Posted by mudring

Will this work on a 2019 M4? STO N SHO website says compatible with 2015-2018

Why are you asking us instead of them? I think the answer is “yes.” No difference?

[TomSawyer]

Originally Posted by GregW / Oregon

Why are you asking us instead of them? I think the answer is “yes.” No difference?

Thanks, I did - STO N SHO could not confirm compatibility.

[GregW / Oregon]

Unless the lower front fascia has changed, which I don’t think it has, you should be fine.

[PhatLyfe]

Originally Posted by mavjr99

Zero drilling . . . This thing is awesome. The PERFECT solution.

That is pretty low and it would block the cooling...

[FK80M3]

Has anyone installed the STO N GO mount over PPF? I wouldn't trust the adhesive alone and plan on using the screw to secure it.