That Tiny Piece of Plastic is Causing Big Problems? A Guide to Number Plate Issues | MyMechanic

Why is This Such a Big Deal?

So why all the fuss? First, the automated cameras at toll booths need a clean, clear plate to read—if they can't, the barrier stays down. Second, JPJ officers are trained to spot plates that are hard to read or don't meet the rules, which can lead to a fine. And finally, your number plate is your car's main ID. If it's obscured or broken, it can raise security flags at checkpoints.

Okay, You're Stuck. What Now?

• At a Toll Booth: If you're stuck at a toll, don't try to reverse. Just stay put, press the intercom button, and someone will usually come to help.
• At a JPJ Checkpoint: If you're stopped by an officer, the best approach is to be polite and cooperative. Acknowledge the problem with the plate.
• Don't Argue: Arguing about the rules won't get you very far, as the regulations are quite strict. It's better to focus on a solution.

How We Can Help You Get It Sorted

If you're told to get a new plate, or you're just stuck, what can we do? While we don't make plates ourselves, we're great at finding the nearest car accessory shop that can make you a new, JPJ-compliant one, often while you wait. If your plate is just loose, we can sometimes talk you through a simple, temporary fix to get you safely to a shop. And if the plate issue is part of a bigger problem, like a minor accident, we're ready with our full breakdown and towing services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Here's a simple tip: before you cross the border, just give your number plates a quick glance. Make sure they're clean, readable, and not cracked. It’s a two-second check that can save you a world of hassle. If you do run into trouble, just stay calm. A solution is usually just around the corner, and with a quick call to MyMechanic, we can help you figure out exactly which corner that is.

Frequently Asked Questions