What does ETC tag removal mean?
3 Answers
ETC showing 'tag invalid' means the ETC electronic tag is not activated. You need to bring the ETC device to an ETC service center or ETC service outlet for inspection. If the invalidation is not caused by human factors, simply performing a secondary activation of ETC will make it usable again. 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 of the toll station, computer networking technology is used for backend settlement processing with banks. This achieves the purpose of vehicles passing through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while paying the fees. Where ETC can be installed: For small vehicles like cars and vans, the ETC card and OBU device are installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, the installation position is in the lower middle part.
Removing the ETC tag means taking off that small device attached to the windshield, usually for reasons like changing to a new car, repairing the glass, or a malfunctioning device. I've encountered this a few times and found it quite straightforward. If you're doing it yourself, remember to first use a heat gun to soften the adhesive, then gently pry it off—don't pull hard to avoid cracking the glass. If the adhesive leaves sticky residue, you can clean it off with alcohol. Afterward, the ETC device might need reactivation or account transfer; otherwise, it might not be recognized at the toll gate next time, causing delays. I recommend contacting your ETC service provider before removal to clarify the process, saving you a potential trip later if issues arise. Also, don’t throw the device away after removal—it might still be usable in your new car, saving you some money. Though small, there’s a technique to removing and reinstalling it. A friend of mine scratched the glass while trying to remove it himself and ended up spending an extra 200 bucks on repairs—quite a loss. So, being extra careful when doing it yourself is the way to go.
Removing the ETC tag is essentially dealing with that little gadget on the car window, and common reasons include replacing the windshield or upgrading the device. I've done it several times. The method isn't complicated—just use a plastic scraper to slowly pry off the base, but patience is key to avoid leaving marks or breaking the adhesive on the glass. Before removal, it's best to disconnect the power or turn off the vehicle's power to prevent short circuits or electric shocks, a step many overlook but is crucial. After removal, check the device's status. If you're replacing the ETC, remember to contact the service provider to update the binding info to avoid issues with toll passage—I once got stuck at a toll gate because I didn't reactivate it properly after reinstalling, which was embarrassing. Also, the adhesive is harder in cold weather, so heating it slightly makes removal easier. If you'd rather not DIY, hiring a professional saves hassle. Overall, if you're somewhat handy, it's not too difficult to handle.
