How to Ground a License Plate Light

Updated 04/14/2020 | Published 04/12/2020

Products Featured in This Question

Ring Terminal -16-14 Gauge - 1/4" Ring ID - Qty. 1

(71)

$1.22

Self-Tapping Screw - 1/4" -14 x 3/4" Long - Zinc

(77)

$1.66

LCD Digital Circuit Tester

(28)

$26.76

Question:

Hi I installed a new metal bracket to replace a broken plastic license plate bracket. I put 3 wires behind the bracket and tightened them to the frame. However the light will not come on. Any suggestions?

asked by: Jim D

Expert Reply:

If you have ensured you have power to the light using a test light similar to the LCD Digital Circuit Tester part # PTW2992 then it has to be an issue with the ground. I have always liked making a ground if the original connection doesn't work. You can move it around a little and get contact but eventually it will fail again.

Instead use a self tapping screw like Self-Tapping Screw part # FA1131822 and securing the wires to it with 1/4" ring terminal part # DW05702-1. This is going to give you the best ground possible. You will have brand new steel on brand new connectors. Once you've installed it i recommend touching that area up with a little spray paint to cover it up and it should never give you issues again.

expert reply by: Randy B