2001 325i front license bracket removal? - BMW Forum

alpinestar · 08-21-2004, 01:07 AM

I have a 2001 325i and I was wondering if anyone has removed their front license plate bracket? The plastic/rubber piece looks like it can be removed and replaced with a regular strip?

I think the car would have a cleaner look if this was done...just wondering if anyone has.

The portion that looks like would be able to be removed is highlighted in red. The pic below that is what it would look like without (used ms paint to edit pic... hehe).

KillFox · 08-21-2004, 09:59 AM

Coupes apparently dont have this... It is just screwed right into the bumper on my car; the bracket/holder that is.

jakks20 · 08-21-2004, 06:59 PM

It just pops out. Just grab one side, push down on the top and pull. I did it just using my hands. No screwdrivers necessary. I suppose you could just grab the bottom of the license plate holder and do it the opposite way. And yes, there is just a regular strip that can be bought.

2001BMW325xi · 08-21-2004, 07:34 PM

Is it legal not to have the front licence plates????

jakks20 · 08-21-2004, 08:13 PM

75% of the states don't have front licence plates. Where are you from?

2001BMW325xi · 08-22-2004, 06:46 PM

Iowa......hmmm did not notice that.......mebbe I will be taking out mine soon.....how can we find out if its legal in the state???

jakks20 · 08-22-2004, 07:29 PM

Ummm, if you have a front licence plate then its MOST likely mandatory that you keep it on. Call your DMV to see.

louden · 08-25-2004, 07:26 AM

Just clarifying how to get the plate holder off:

The black plastic strip on either side of the plate holder overlaps it. Pull them off (a bit) first. I saw the dealer do it with a a little plastic knife, but you can also use your fingers. Once you lift either side, you can then lift the plate section off. - it's all snapped in.

You'd then need to replace the plate section with a thin plastic strip like the rest of the molding. I have both for my car. I removed the front plate, and went back to the strip - Might be against the law, but it does look nicer on the ZHP...

M3Guy · 08-25-2004, 08:29 AM

I have the replacement piece for the front license bracket for sale if you're interested.

alpinestar · 08-26-2004, 12:47 AM

send me an email M3Guy
the_alpinestar@yahoo.com
I'll make that purchase if it will ift a 2001 325i (E46 4DR)

M3Guy · 09-07-2004, 10:03 AM

Alpinestar, sorry for the delay, I sent you an e-mail.