Can the ETC be relocated after installation?
3 Answers
ETC cannot be repositioned once adhered. Once removed from the car's windshield, the ETC will cease to function and can only be reactivated by professionals. You may visit the original service point or the provincial expressway ETC service center for reinstallation and activation, after which it can be used normally in ETC-dedicated lanes. This is because there is a button on the back of the ETC device; when removed, the button automatically pops out, clearing all stored information and rendering the ETC unusable. Where can ETC be installed: For small vehicles like cars and minivans, the OBU device should be installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it should be installed on the lower middle part. ETC installation requirements: The height should be no less than 1.2 meters and no more than 2.5 meters; the installation angle N should be between 30º and 90º (the angle between the surface of the electronic tag and the horizontal plane).
In theory, the ETC device can be relocated after installation, but it's recommended to do so through official channels. ETC devices are typically adhered to the windshield and bound to the vehicle's information. Self-removal may cause device damage or toll collection errors. Once, I helped a friend move their ETC, but the adhesive wouldn't come off, and the device malfunctioned, requiring extra costs for a replacement. The correct method is to contact the ETC service provider, such as a bank or highway company. After submitting an application, they will help unbind the old information and guide you through installing a new device in the new location. The process isn't complicated but requires patience to avoid affecting daily travel. Remember not to move it frequently, as aged adhesive becomes harder to handle. Regularly check if the ETC indicator light is functioning properly to ensure smooth passage.
Once an ETC device is installed, it's best not to move it casually. As a frequent driver, I've seen many car owners cause malfunctions by removing it themselves. The ETC's adhesive fixation design makes it sensitive; moving it can easily damage internal circuits or cause signal interruptions. If you need to change cars or relocate the device, first visit an ETC service center to complete the necessary procedures, provide relevant documents to deactivate the original device, and then install an updated version at the new location. Last year, when I got a new car, I went through this process, which was completely free and quick. Randomly moving the device increases repair costs and risks, affecting automatic toll collection efficiency. Additionally, after relocating, remember to test the pass-through effect to avoid recognition failures at toll stations. In short, consult an expert before making any moves.
