License plate location to avoid sensors

[metrangia]

Hi all. I'm new to Stangnet. I just bought a new 2025 Mustang 2.3L Ecoboost. Living in NJ, I need to put a license plate in front. Given all of the sensors in new cars, i don't want to drill any holes unless I'm 100% sure the plate won't block any sensors, like parking sensors, lane assist sensors, etc.

It's just an Ecoboost, not a Premium or GT. It has the "Equipment Group 101A" package.

I'm looking for others' experiences with this. Thanks.

 

[Noobz347]

Install it where it is indicated in the owner's manual.

 

[Bullitt347]

If you look closely, Ford usually puts 2 small dimples in the bumper cover to show where to install the retaining screws.

 

[metrangia]

Install it where it is indicated in the owner's manual.

The owner’s manual doesn’t specifically say not to place the front license plate in the center, but it does say this about Adaptive Cruise Control:

The radar sensor is in the lower grille.

Note: You cannot see the sensor. It is
behind a fascia panel.

Note: Keep the front of your vehicle free of
dirt, metal badges or objects. Vehicle front
protectors, aftermarket lights, additional
paint or plastic coatings could also degrade
sensor performance.

A message displays if something obstructs
the camera or the sensor. When something
blocks the sensor, the system cannot
detect a vehicle ahead and does not
function.

Notice that the sensor is behind where the license plate would be placed.

I don’t think my Mustang has Adaptive Cruise Control but I am determining that now.

 

[metrangia]

If you look closely, Ford usually puts 2 small dimples in the bumper cover to show where to install the retaining screws.

Yes, I saw those. But see my reply to Noobz347.

I would think Ford is smart enough to place the sensor low enough so that the plate wouldn't block it. If there is an issue, it would have been raised in this forum and elsewhere, but I can't find anything on it.

 

[Bullitt347]

Yes, I saw those. But see my reply to Noobz347.

I would think Ford is smart enough to place the sensor low enough so that the plate wouldn't block it. If there is an issue, it would have been raised in this forum and elsewhere, but I can't find anything on it.

The plate is not going to block any signal from that sensor.


Note: You cannot see the sensor. It is
behind a fascia panel.

If the sensor is ok behind a fascia panel, it is ok behind a license plate.
Also:
If there is an issue, it would have been raised in this forum and elsewhere, but I can't find anything on it.
Exactly...

 

[Bullitt347]

Just think of the THOUSANDS of other cars out there that do not have a problem wit the license plate being exactly where yours should go.
If it works for them, why not you?

 

[91AOD5.0LX]

How about just looking at the other new mustangs on the lot at the dealership and see how it’s installed being that it’s a brand new car?

Also if you want instead of drilling thru the front bumper how about one of these Sto-N-Show plate holders. They screw underneath the bumper so no visible damage to the front bumper and the plate can be disconnected from the bracket for a clean look and no holes.
You will still have the plate in front of the sensor which [isnt] a problem but you won’t risk drilling into the sensor and the best part is no holes in the bumper.

https://lmr.com/item/LRS-SNS372A/mustang-sto-n-show-license-plate-holder-w-co-pilot-360-2024?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20122150531&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjJrCBhCXARIsAI5x66XxtKyNqka_iz1LfhVpAtzNDN87_Tcu39spyyAc5MVhqqF0FF8ZKBMaAt6nEALw_wcB