How to Activate ETC After Replacing the Windshield?
3 Answers
Methods to activate ETC after replacing the windshield: Insert and remove the ETC card twice consecutively until the electronic tag screen displays 'Bluetooth is on.' If 'Tag invalid' appears when inserting and removing twice without the electronic tag attached, this is normal and does not affect activation. Alternatively, press the button on top of the electronic tag directly to enable Bluetooth. Turn on the Bluetooth on your phone, open the corresponding mobile app (usually a download QR code is provided on the electronic tag), and enter the device activation interface. Click 'Connect Device' and wait patiently for the 'Connection Successful' prompt. After successful connection, upload a photo of the vehicle's front to complete activation. How ETC Works: Through dedicated short-range communication between the vehicle-mounted electronic tag installed on the windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at toll stations, computer networking technology is used for backend settlement processing with the bank. This allows vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while still paying the required fees.
I also encountered ETC activation issues after replacing the windshield before. The small box didn’t respond at all after being reattached. After struggling for a while, I found three key points: first, ensure the device is stuck to the black grid area on the windshield—if the position is too off-center, the signal will be weak; then, download the corresponding bank app on your phone, turn on Bluetooth, and operate with the phone close to the ETC—some devices may require multiple attempts; if all else fails, drive to the card-issuing branch with your ID card, and the staff can handle it in two minutes with a handheld device. Remember to check the device model in advance—older models must be activated on-site.
When installing the ETC device, there is a small button on the back. Pressing it against the windshield activates it. When replacing the windshield or removing the device, the button pops up and automatically locks, requiring reactivation. It's recommended to try using your phone first: install the device, connect the power, turn on your phone's Bluetooth and the ETC service app, select the device activation option, and follow the prompts. If it fails, it's likely the anti-theft mechanism has been triggered. In this case, you'll need to visit a bank or highway service point with your vehicle registration document for staff assistance. Avoid forcibly dismantling the device casing yourself, as it may damage the chip.
