So I decided to run w/out the front license plate - bought a set of caps and found that the right cap would not fit in place - took a closer look and saw that the area the caps fit into was off center - a friend suggested I try and screw the license plate nut back on and pull forward to realign the area - no dice
Now I can

 

Remove your front bumper and you will gain access. Not hard to do but I would suggest having a friend help so as to not scratch the bumper.