What to Do When the ETC Falls Off?
3 Answers
If the ETC falls off, you need to go to the local customer service center to reactivate it. ETC is an electronic toll collection 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 funds from a pre-linked bank account. It is an electronic toll collection system being actively developed and promoted internationally for use on roads, bridges, and tunnels. The installation method for ETC is as follows: 1. Check the ETC card and electronic tag for any damage. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the electronic tag, and the red light will briefly illuminate. If the OLED screen displays 'Tag Invalid, Please Insert Card,' it indicates the device is functioning properly. 2. Clean the front windshield, peel off the protective film of the electronic tag, and stick it to the installation position, pressing firmly for about 2 to 3 minutes. 3. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, placing the chip into the electronic tag device.
With decades of car repair experience, I often see ETC devices falling off, usually due to aging double-sided tape or summer heat. First, don't drive immediately—find a safe spot to park, wipe the device clean with a cloth, and check for cracks or screen damage. If the device is intact, prepare new double-sided tape (the automotive-grade type), clean the original spot on the windshield thoroughly to remove old adhesive residue, and let it air-dry for a few minutes. When reapplying, press gently for several seconds to ensure a firm bond. Test it: drive through an ETC lane or connect via a mobile app to confirm proper detection. If the device is broken, don't attempt repairs—head to the nearest ETC service point with your vehicle registration and ETC card for a free replacement or reactivation. For prevention, regularly inspect the tape and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
As a mom who often drives the kids around, I was startled when the ETC device suddenly fell off, worrying it might block my view and cause an accident. I immediately removed it and placed it in a corner of the dashboard to ensure a safe drive home. After checking, the possible reasons could be improper car washing or device vibration loosening it. The solution is simple: clean the glass and device surface with a wet wipe, buy strong double-sided tape (the 3M brand available at supermarkets will do), and wait a few hours after reattaching before use. I tried once, but it fell off again after a few days. Customer service suggested the glass might have oil residue and advised me to polish it clean before reattaching. Now, I always check the ETC's stability before long trips, as it affects both the convenience of highway toll payments and safety—never force it to work if it falls off, as it might affect your car insurance coverage.
