How to Remove ETC Device?
4 Answers
You can use a hairdryer to blow hot air at the joint between the OBU device and the windshield. The adhesive tape on the back of the device will soften when heated, reducing its stickiness. Then, the owner can slowly twist and remove the OBU device by hand or use a plastic scraper to gently scrape it off. Alternatively, soak a towel in hot water and place it on the outside of the windshield to heat the adhesive tape on the back of the OBU device. Wait for the tape to soften before removing the device. Another method is to use sunlight to heat the adhesive tape on the back of the OBU device. On a hot, sunny day, park the car in an open area to expose the device to direct sunlight until it softens, then remove it. You can also visit the ETC service office and ask staff for assistance. They may spray some tar remover and then use a plastic scraper to slowly remove the OBU device. Benefits of Installing ETC: Save time by avoiding queues and waiting. Environmentally friendly, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and minimizing pollution. Reduce wear and save costs by decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and brakes, lowering wear and fuel consumption. Users can also enjoy a 5% discount on toll fees. Improve efficiency—ETC lanes can theoretically increase vehicle throughput by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster, more advanced, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
I've helped friends remove ETC devices before. If you're doing it yourself, first check how it's mounted - most are attached to the windshield with 3M adhesive. I recommend using a hairdryer to heat the adhesive area, then slowly cutting through the glue layer with a thin line like fishing line or dental floss. Never yank it forcefully, as you might scratch the glass or damage the ETC device. Some ETC units use suction cups which are simpler - just rotate the base or press the buckle to remove. The key is to be careful with the anti-tamper button on the back of the device - it will deactivate once removed. You'll need to take it to the bank or service point for reactivation. It's best to contact your issuing bank beforehand to understand their reactivation process to avoid delays.
When removing the ETC device, you need to consider whether it might trigger the anti-tamper lock. Most ETC devices have a small spring-loaded button on the back that pops up and locks the device when it's slightly separated from the windshield. When I removed mine, I first inserted a plastic card between the device and the windshield to hold down that button. Then, address the mounting method: for adhesive types, use a heat gun to soften the glue, then slowly pry it open with the card. After removal, immediately check the button status – if it's locked, you'll need to contact the bank for a reset. The whole process takes about twenty minutes, but requires patience as excessive force can easily damage the wiring. Don't throw away the removed device either, as most ETC units can still be reused.
Removing ETC depends on the installation method. For suction cup mounts, simply twist the base counterclockwise to detach—it takes just three seconds. Adhesive mounts are trickier: use a hairdryer to heat the glue area on the windshield for three minutes, then gently pry the device edges. Pro tip: cover the anti-tamper button on the device base with transparent tape beforehand. After removal, clean residual glue with alcohol wipes. Note: the device locks if separated from the windshield for 15 seconds, requiring reactivation at the original service point. Avoid damaging the windshield's black border throughout the process.
