Pros: Are you removing Lic Plates?

Detailing by M

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My customers love this.

I always like to remove the Lic Plat on a full detail and even a wash if the car is disgusting.

It also adds to my "attention to detail" Reputation.
I always have my DeWalt cordless and every tip to even remove "security screws".

So if you do this:
How often?
Details only?
 
I normally only do it on more advanced details. I don't routinely do it on maintenance washes
 
I alwasy do as it gets bad behind the plate and it only takes a minute or two to remove.
 
I try to remember to but sometimes get so busy I let it go...


Here's an example of removing it...


1949 Chevy 5-Window Pickup Extreme Makeover - Pictures & Videos

You see the chrome bracket but I removed the plate...

1949_Chevy_Truck_072.jpg




It's a good practice not only to clean behind it and around it but to also get it out of the way...

It's also a good idea so you don't have to worry about having it show up in videos or pictures later...


:)
 
On details that get get polished/waxed, absolutely. On a lot of cars and suv's, that's the only way to get in the recessed area for the rear plate. It would take longer to work around it then to remove it.
 
Yes...Plates come off!

And if so equipped:
Remove/clean-up (wash/polish/seal) the license plate frame assemblies/mounting-screws as well.

NOTE:
One "frame" exception: No abrasive-polishing of PVD<<<:poke:

:)

Bob
 
All of the time if I'm paint correcting.
 
Not a pro, but I always remove the plates for a full detail whether my own cars or the couple friends cars I have done. Not for regular washes, just the twice per year tear downs.

Here's one example why I do it:
 
I take mine off, even for maintanence washes. Something about water continuing to drip from behind a plate drives me nuts. Plus, I wipe it down with the frame after every wash.
 
Taking the plate off is a good idea. Saves the pads.

Ed
 
I'm not a pro. Every time I full detail my car or a friends the plate(s) come off. Also every four or five washings.
 
It's the details that matter, license plate, gas cap area, door jambs, painted areas under the hood/trunk.
 
I've only paid one time to have my car detailed; all other times have been done myself but when I saw that the license plate was off I will say I was happy to see the extra level of detail.

As an enthusiast, I know that I am going to (at least most of the time) do a better job or put more into my detail than any paid individual because I am personally invested in the project, rather than just doing it for a paycheck.

For those professionals that are doing it - I say continue to do so. It's the little things that count and trust me, it's noticed by customers. For those that don't - obviously you all know best for what your customers want but if doing a full detail, rather than just a quick wash, I would highly recommend it. Just don't forget to put it back on :laughing:
 
the only tool i put on the cars is buffer , for liability i don`t remove any bolts , screws or anything related , wheels , tires , wipers , seats etc
if are removed by the owner i clean , other i don`t mess with the car.
better be safe than a liable hero and sorry.
 
its part of those details...plus things get caught between the plate and could leak down when they leave which ruins the work you just completed
 
I do unless they have the screws with the covers. Once I had a customer who had these and the cover popped off a few days later. I had to drive all over town to find replacements ;pullhair:
 
I too an a plate remover.

I also remove the hitch out of the receiver on trucks, saves the shins,ribs,and cuts down on concusions.
 
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