How to Remove an ETC Device?
2 Answers
When removing the ETC device, you can use a hairdryer to heat the double-sided tape on the back of the ETC, then use a small plastic scraper to peel it off, and finally wipe it clean with a cloth. ETC Usage Precautions: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When encountering a stationary vehicle ahead, to prevent the ETC device of the front vehicle from malfunctioning or not having an ETC device at all, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters to avoid automatic sensing and payment for the front vehicle. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h. Driving too fast may prevent the system from reading the vehicle's device information, leading to a failed fee deduction. Unauthorized removal or movement of the OBU device, or if the ETC electronic tag falls off or becomes loose, may cause the electronic tag to become invalid. In such cases, you can take it to the bank where the ETC card was issued or the highway service office for inspection. If the loosening or detachment was not due to human intervention, reactivation may suffice. When using a debit card linked to the ETC, insufficient balance may also lead to a failed fee deduction. In such situations, follow the guidance of on-site staff to proceed to a manual MTC lane and use cash or card payment for passage. Poor signal reception may occur if the car's windshield is too thick. This is especially important for vehicles that have had their windshields replaced after an accident or for those who have modified their front windshields.
Removing the ETC device isn't too difficult, but you need to be careful not to scratch the windshield. The device is usually stuck to the glass with strong double-sided tape. My favorite method is using fishing line to slide underneath and slowly pull it back and forth, like sawing through the adhesive. If you don't have fishing line, a stiff plastic card like a bank card will also work—just insert it at an angle and gently pry. The adhesive gets especially hard in cold weather, so I recommend using a hairdryer to heat and soften it for 2-3 minutes. The toughest part is dealing with the leftover adhesive marks on the glass—spray some adhesive remover or essential oil, let it sit for five minutes, then scrub hard with an old towel. Remember to remove the ETC card before starting, just in case the device falls and damages it. Don’t throw the device away after removal—if you plan to use it in another car, just take it to the bank for reactivation.
