How to Open an ETC Device?
3 Answers
The method to open an ETC device is: 1. Use a hairdryer to heat the contact surface between the ETC device and the glass, softening the adhesive before gently removing it; 2. Soak a towel in hot water and apply it to the adhesive tape on the back of the device to heat it; 3. Use a scraper to remove the adhesive tape and take the device off. ETC, or Electronic Toll Collection, is a system that allows vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping. It uses onboard equipment to identify the vehicle, record information, and automatically deduct the corresponding fee from a pre-linked IC card or bank card. ETC is a specialized road tolling method primarily used on highways, toll bridges or tunnels, and certain urban road sections to alleviate traffic congestion in cities.
Last time I removed the ETC device, I used a hairdryer and a plastic card. This thing is usually stuck to the windshield with strong 3M adhesive, so you need to disconnect the power cable (if connected) before removal. Turn the hairdryer to hot air and blow it at the bottom of the device for two to three minutes to soften the glue. Then, use a plastic card or an old bank card to slowly pry it up from the edge—avoid metal tools to prevent scratching the glass. After prying it off, there might be adhesive residue left on the glass, which can be gently cleaned with alcohol. Don’t forget that the ETC device may have a built-in battery, so be careful not to damage any components during removal. If you’re removing it to relocate or switch cars, the device might need reactivation—contact the service provider to update the registration info. It’s best to do this in a well-ventilated indoor area, stay patient, and avoid using excessive force. After removal, check if the device is intact—reinstalling it later will be much simpler. DIY is great, but make sure you have the right tools and prioritize safety.
I'm quite worried about removing the ETC device. It's glued so firmly that a slight mistake could scratch the glass or damage the device. A friend of mine tried removing it himself before, and ended up with a crack in the windshield, costing a lot to repair. So I suggest not DIYing it, but instead going directly to an ETC service point or auto repair shop. They have professional heat guns to soften the adhesive and can safely remove it with plastic pry tools. If you insist on trying it yourself, at least use a hairdryer to heat the adhesive for a few minutes, then slowly pry it off with a credit card to avoid forceful pulling. The device contains delicate circuits inside, and rough handling could cause it to malfunction. After removal, it would need to be reactivated to work, otherwise, it won't function for highway tolls. Considering these risks, I often say that small things can lead to big troubles, and safety comes first—don't invite major problems for a little convenience.
