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The use of different license plate attachments such as conventional holders, Velcro, suction cups or magnets has led to different interpretations of the "fixed attachment", which is required by the Vehicle Registration Ordinance (FZV). In our Article from 12.03.2023/XNUMX/XNUMX we discussed the topic of magnet and Velcro attachments, which sparked a lot of discussion, especially on Facebook. However, our original presentation was unclear and sometimes even wrong, for which we would like to apologize once again. But what did the Federal Ministry of Transport actually change in its traffic bulletin announcement of February 15? It's important, that save legally binding regulations have been changed. The pronouncement only specifies the main requirements for obtaining a license for license plate mountings that can be removed without tools.
attach the mark
Accordingly, a license plate attachment meets the requirements of a fixed attachment within the meaning of the FZV, if for the removal of an attached license plate a tool is required. A direct attachment of the license plate and its possible holder on the vehicle (e.g. B. by means of screws through the license plate or the bracket in the body) is not absolutely necessary. However, the license plate and its holder must firmly attached to the body and only with tools or be removable with increased mechanical effort.
The announcement also emphasizes that the fixed attachment of the license plate for all types of attachment (including adhesive, Velcro, magnetic or similar attachments) must be guaranteed. The license plate must not fall off when driving on cobblestones with potholes (Belgian block), using portal car washes, car washes or self-service wash boxes. And the fixed attachment must also remain intact under various environmental influences such as temperature fluctuations, humidity, impact and shock loads, UV weathering and corrosive media.
what can be easily removed is not fixed
In view of the clarification mentioned above, we still consider magnets with low tensile strength and simple Velcro fasteners from the hardware store to be unsuitable. However, special systems are like that Easy Fix Ultra, which is used on some of our editorial vehicles, acceptable. This Velcro system is equipped with a special acrylate adhesive and was specially developed for this purpose. It is not comparable to conventional hook and loop fasteners. The high-pile fleece material is resistant to most chemicals and is also waterproof. Such a fully taped license plate can only be removed with considerable effort, in contrast to many conventional license plate holders or reinforcements, where this often works without tools.
In summary, the clarification by the Federal Ministry of Transport shows that the fixed attachment of license plates must be ensured for all types of attachment. The announcement provides a uniform interpretation of the requirements and thus creates clarity for drivers and experts. Magnets with low tensile strength and simple Velcro fasteners are therefore less suitable. Special systems such as the Easy Fix Ultra system, on the other hand, meet the requirements for a fixed attachment according to the vehicle registration regulation, as they attach the license plate firmly to the body and can only be removed with increased mechanical effort.
- Unproblematic mounts:
- License plate Velcro: Special Velcro, ideally with mushroom head Velcro and resin-based adhesive
- Classic bracket: screwed license plate frame
- Screwed license plate: Number plates screwed directly to the vehicle
- reinforcement plate: Plastic or metal plate that mounts behind the license plate to provide additional stability
- Removable license plate holder: Systems that allow secure attachment and yet can be easily removed if necessary (e.g. for trailers or bike racks)
- Problematic mounts:
- Double-sided tape: does not withstand temperature differences, susceptible to moisture
- neon frame: The problem is the color, it changes the optical properties of the license plate
- Velcro strips: Simple Velcro strips as a cheap solution from the hardware store
- Simple magnets with little pulling force: suitable for dealers, show license plates
- Stainless Steel/Chrome Look Frame: The problem is the chrome, it changes the optical properties of the license plate and can dazzle
Can strong magnets be used?
We are of the opinion that even strong magnets are not generally allowed to permanently attach a license plate to the vehicle. They are not considered by us as "fixed attachment"because they can be removed without tools or increased mechanical effort. Magnets are more suitable for dealers or show plates. To avoid legal problems and possible penalties, one should use one of the "unproblematic mounts“Use.
This post is not legal advice! It only reflects our experience/assessment with this topic!
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