Can ETC be removed?
4 Answers
ETC can be removed after installation. However, if the ETC device is removed by itself, it will become invalid because the ETC device has an anti-tamper function. There is a small switch at the back of the ETC electronic tag. Once it is peeled off the windshield, the internal switch will automatically close. Therefore, you must bring the vehicle's registration certificate to the ETC service provider for reactivation. ETC billing principle: There will be one or more ETC lanes on highways. Through dedicated short-range microwave communication between the vehicle-mounted electronic tag installed on the windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at toll stations, the computer network technology is used for backend settlement with banks, achieving the purpose of paying tolls without stopping at road and bridge toll stations. All of this is based on the principle of passing first and deducting fees later. Benefits of installing ETC: Save time: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and environmentally friendly: Low-carbon, vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and minimizing pollution; Reduce wear: Saves costs, decreases the frequency of vehicle starts and brakes, and reduces wear and fuel consumption; Improve efficiency: The efficiency of ETC lanes can theoretically increase by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC more updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous. More policy support: The State Council explicitly stated in the "13th Five-Year Plan for the Development of a Modern Comprehensive Transportation System" that "by 2020, the interoperability of transportation smart cards in key city clusters will be basically achieved, and the proportion of vehicles equipped with ETC will significantly increase." It also set a clear target in the "13th Five-Year" comprehensive transportation development indicators: "By 2020, the ETC usage rate for road passenger vehicles will reach 50%." More future possibilities: In addition to continuously improving the convenience of ETC installation and usage and the ETC usage rate for passenger vehicles, the future will also promote the use of ETC for trucks and explore the deep integration of the ETC system with smart transportation directions such as vehicle-to-vehicle communication and vehicle-to-road coordination, providing comprehensive travel services for vehicle owners. This means more application scenarios will support ETC applications.
The ETC device can be removed. I once removed it myself when changing cars. It's adhered to the windshield with adhesive. I carefully used a heat gun to gently warm the edges to soften the glue, then slowly pried it off with a plastic scraper—avoid metal tools to prevent scratching the glass or damaging the device. After removal, the device may need reactivation or recharging since it has a built-in battery. Rough handling can cause sensor malfunctions, affecting its performance at toll stations. I recommend backing up data first. For solar-powered versions, place it in sunlight to recharge after removal. If the adhesive is stubborn, don’t force it—use alcohol wipes to clean residue. Overall, while removable, I avoid tampering unless necessary for replacement or repair. Regular dusting with a cloth helps maintain sensitivity.
Removing the ETC device is feasible, but it requires proper technique. I've noticed many people yank it forcefully and end up tearing the label, rendering the device useless. You should prepare some mild adhesive remover, spray it near the glue residue to soften it, and then gently pry it off the glass surface. After removal, check if the wiring connector is loose—some older models have wired connections, so unplug and firmly reconnect them before testing the power. After powering off the device, you may need to visit a service center to reinitialize and reactivate it; otherwise, the ETC gate won't recognize your license plate. For regular maintenance, I advise against frequent removal and reinstallation, as the adhesive weakens with each reapplication, affecting stability. If the device freezes or gives false alarms, simply press the reset button instead of removing it.
ETC can be removed, but don't mess around with it casually. I've removed it once or twice, and the operation is simple: first, gently pull the edge of the label with a soft wire, and once the adhesive loosens, slowly remove it. The problem is, after removal, if the battery runs out, it needs to be recharged, which can be a hassle; and if it's not placed back in the correct position when reattached, it can affect the recognition accuracy. It's recommended not to touch it unless absolutely necessary. Usually, just wipe the surface with a cloth to keep it clean for more reliable signals. If you really need to remove it, go to an ETC service point and let professionals handle it for peace of mind.
