Ontario licence plates are peeling away
Have you noticed that your Ontario licence plate has been bubbling or peeling? You’re not the only one.
The Toronto Star reached out to the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services to determine why “delamination” of licence plates is happening and what is being done about it.
“The [Ontario] government is aware that some individuals have experienced an issue with the reflective lamination bubbling or peeling off their currently licence plates,” Ministry spokesperson Harry Malhi said. Malhi mentioned that the bubbling has happening due to “several factors like climate, pH extremes, cleaners used in industrial car washes, and free chloride ions.”
Malhi suggests that “customers should visit a ServiceOntario centre if peeling has caused the characters on the plate to not be plainly visible.” The plate should be replaced if the laminate is worn off in some areas or bubbling around the characters.
When asked about cost, Malhi mentioned that current licence plates are guaranteed by the manufacturer for up to five years. After five years, the cost is $59 to replace.
If you bring your plates to a ServiceOntario centre, make sure to bring your identification, proof of insurance, the original vehicle permit (plate and vehicle portion) and the damaged plates (both front and rear).
Starting February 1st, 2020, all new passenger and commercial licence plates issued will have a brand-new design. “The province is enhancing the quality, design and production of licence plates at no cost to taxpayers,” Malhi said. Ontarians will be able to voluntarily purchase the new licence plate once available.
Malhi mentioned that the new licence plate is a materially enhanced, effective product. The new plates will use heavy-duty, high definition sheeting that is stronger, brighter and will last longer than current plates.
Source: My Ontario licence plate is peeling. What should I do?