Why maintain your plate regularly?
A clean and legible license plate is not just about aesthetics. It is a legal obligation that can save you a lot of trouble:
- €116 fine for an illegible plate
- Rejection at the technical inspection
- Accelerated corrosion
- Deterioration of the reflective coating
Required material for optimal cleaning
To clean your plate without damaging it:
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth (prevents scratches)
- Neutral soap or diluted dish soap
- Lukewarm water (never boiling)
- Soft-bristled brush for embossed areas and gaps
- Soft lint-free drying cloth
Step-by-step method
Step 1: Preliminary rinsing
Always start by rinsing your plate thoroughly with clean water. This step removes dirt and dust particles that could scratch the surface during cleaning.
Step 2: Soapy wash
Prepare a solution of lukewarm water and neutral soap. Gently rub with the sponge lengthwise, without pressing too hard to avoid damaging the marking.
Step 3: Cleaning embossed characters
Use a soft-bristled brush to clean the spaces between letters and numbers. This is often where dirt accumulates the most.
Step 4: Rinsing and drying
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry immediately with a soft cloth to avoid limescale marks.
Products to avoid at all costs
Never use on your license plate:
- Solvents, acetone, or white spirit
- Bleach or chlorine-based products
- Wire or abrasive brushes
- Aggressive household cleaners
- High-pressure washers (too aggressive)
Recommended cleaning frequency
| Situation | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Normal use | Every 2 weeks |
| Winter (salt, mud) | Weekly |
| Highway (insects) | After every long trip |
| Seaside | Twice a week (sea salt) |
Signs you need to replace your plate
Despite good maintenance, replace your plate if you notice:
- Advanced corrosion or pitting on the aluminum
- Faded or hard-to-read characters
- Significant deformation (dented, bent)
- Cracks or chips in the metal
- Loss of reflectivity on the white background
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