What to Do When the ETC Device Falls Off?

[StJace]

The solution for a fallen ETC device is: Go to the original issuing point or the provincial expressway ETC service center to have it reinstalled and reactivated. The installation steps for ETC are: 1. Prepare the ETC sensor device; 2. Peel off the adhesive strip on the back of the sensor and stick it to the right side of the rearview mirror on the windshield; 3. Insert the ETC card. Once the sensor detects the ETC card, the display will light up. ETC refers to the Electronic Toll Collection system, used for automatic toll collection on expressways or bridges. Its functions include: 1. Saving time by eliminating the need to wait in line; 2. Allowing vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions, thereby minimizing pollution; 3. Decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, reducing wear and tear.

[DeCarter]

My ETC device also fell off due to sun exposure last time, which almost drove me crazy. Later at the bank branch, I learned that once this little box detaches, it automatically locks and the built-in anti-tamper switch immediately deactivates. Never try to stick it back randomly—it won't work! You must bring the device, ID card, and vehicle license to the original issuing bank or expressway service point for reactivation. Staff will use specialized equipment to reset it; if the device is damaged, you'll need to pay a few hundred for a replacement. I specifically asked the technician—he said summer is peak season for detachment due to weak windshield film adhesion, recommending professional adhesive reinforcement. When reinstalling, avoid the black dotted grid and metal areas to ensure signal reception. Since highway toll gates rely on it, get it fixed ASAP for peace of mind.

[ElleAnn]

I have experience with ETC devices falling off. Once during a long drive, it suddenly detached, giving me quite a scare. I immediately contacted customer service, and they informed me that once the device is separated from the windshield, it becomes unusable and must be reactivated at the issuing location. This is because there's an anti-tamper button at the base of the device that locks it when detached. I took the device to a bank branch, where they checked it and confirmed it wasn't damaged. They reactivated it in just a few minutes. Installation position is crucial—you need to clean off the old adhesive thoroughly and place it right in the center at the top of the windshield. The customer service advised not to rush to remove the card when securing it with double-sided tape, but to let it sit for 24 hours to ensure the adhesive sets firmly. If the device falls off multiple times, it might get damaged, and replacing it could cost several hundred yuan. It's best to check the installation status before heading out, especially for vehicles with modified windshields—extra caution is needed.

[LeBethany]

Don't try to reattach the ETC device yourself if it falls off. I tried it before and it didn't work at all – later I found out the device has anti-theft design that locks it once detached from the windshield. Just take the device to a service center or bank in your car, where staff can reactivate it with their machine. If undamaged, it takes just five minutes. Remember to clean off old adhesive from the windshield first, and avoid installing it on metal surfaces or black dotted areas, otherwise highway sensors won't detect it. If the device is broken, you'll need a replacement costing around 300 yuan. Now I regularly check the adhesive strip for wear and am extra careful not to touch that little box during car washes.