How long after window tinting can ETC be installed?
4 Answers
Generally, you need to wait about a week after window tinting, until the moisture inside the tint has completely evaporated, before installing ETC. The ETC installation process is as follows: Upon receiving the device, first check whether the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU, and the red light will briefly illuminate. The OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," indicating that the device is functioning normally. Clean the front windshield to ensure the glass surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then peel off the adhesive backing of the OBU and attach it to the installation position. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, ensuring the chip is properly inserted into the OBU device.
I was so excited to install the ETC right after getting my car tinted, but the mechanic advised me to wait at least 48 hours. He explained that the adhesive for the tint needs to fully dry, otherwise the ETC device wouldn't stick properly and could easily fall off. Also, washing the car or exposing it to high temperatures during the initial period could affect the adhesion, so I resisted the urge. Two days later, I installed the ETC myself without any issues, and it's been working perfectly for over a year now. A friend of mine didn't follow the advice and only waited one day, resulting in the device becoming loose and almost flying off—it was terrifying. Also, make sure to choose a good spot for the ETC, avoiding the edges of the windshield to prevent signal interference. Experience has taught me that patience is always better than regret.
Having driven for most of my life and applied window films multiple times, I always wait three days before installing the ETC device. This is because freshly applied film retains moisture on the glass surface, and attaching the device immediately can cause bubbles or even damage the film. Once, in a hurry to get on the highway, I didn’t wait long enough, and the ETC suddenly fell off, nearly causing an accident. Since then, I’ve never cut corners. Generally, I recommend waiting 48 to 72 hours, depending on the weather and the type of film applied. In dry summer conditions, two days may suffice, while winter might require more time. I also make sure to clean the glass surface thoroughly before installing the ETC to remove any dust residue, ensuring a firmer adhesion. Safe driving is paramount—don’t skimp on this waiting time.
DIY tinting is quite rewarding, but installing the ETC must wait until the film is fully cured. I recommend waiting two to three days, and extending the time in cold or humid conditions. Otherwise, the ETC adhesive may react with the uncured film, causing wrinkles that affect both aesthetics and functionality. My first attempt was installing the ETC the day after tinting, and the results were less than satisfactory. Later, I learned to be patient, and the outcome improved significantly. Also, avoid opening windows during those days to prevent dust accumulation. The best position for the ETC is the upper middle part of the windshield—it doesn’t obstruct the view and ensures stable signal reception. It’s both cost-effective and worry-free.
