Why can't ETC be removed?

[McPatrick]

ETC cannot be removed for the following reason: There is an anti-tamper switch button on the back of the ETC device. After installation, this anti-tamper button presses against the windshield. If the device is removed, this button will automatically pop out, causing the ETC to stop functioning. To resume service, you will need to visit a relevant service outlet to reapply for positioning, installation, and activation. ETC, whose Chinese name is Electronic Toll Collection system, is a system that automatically completes the reading and writing of entry and exit information and payment of tolls without stopping by installing an onboard device near the car window. Its advantage is that you don't need to stop when entering or exiting highways, thereby improving traffic efficiency.

[DiJasmine]

I’ve always been curious about this, so I looked it up. The main reason why ETC devices are not recommended or allowed to be removed at will is that they are firmly attached to the windshield with strong adhesive during installation. Forcibly removing them can easily damage the device or leave stubborn glue residue. More importantly, the ETC is bound to specific vehicle information, including the license plate and owner’s identity. Once removed, the internal sensor may automatically deactivate, requiring you to contact staff for reactivation and re-verification, which is time-consuming and costly. I once experienced this when a friend tried to move it to a new car, only to end up stuck in a futile hassle. Additionally, during highway travel, the system relies on this device for automatic vehicle identification. Frequent removal can lead to recognition failures, affecting travel convenience. From a security perspective, this design prevents fraud or unauthorized use, protecting your account safety. In short, if you really need to remove it, it’s best to seek professional service, but there’s usually no need to tamper with it in daily use.

[CassidyLee]

I once tried to disassemble the ETC device myself, but found it completely impossible. The reason is that the circuit board inside the device has an anti-tamper protection mechanism. Moving it even slightly can easily trigger a lockout state, rendering it useless. What's more troublesome is that the adhesive is extremely strong, and forcing it off might damage the windshield or leave permanent marks. At the time, I wondered—why go through the hassle of removing something that was installed for convenience in the first place? Later, I realized that once an ETC is bound to a vehicle, the data is linked to your ID card and bank account. Tampering with it could lead to system misjudgments or deactivation. Highway usage emphasizes efficiency—each time you pass through, the device verifies location data. Frequent disassembly disrupts this automation. There are also legal implications—some regions impose fines for unauthorized removal. After getting used to it on long drives, removing it only causes unnecessary trouble. It's better to leave it alone for peace of mind and convenience.

[JulietLynn]

Don't mess with the ETC device. Simply put, it's designed this way for convenience. When installing it, workers will stick the device to a fixed point on your windshield. Inside, there are GPS and sensors that record your car's position and binding information. If you remove it and change its position, those sensors will detect errors and deactivate. I've seen people remove it for cleaning, only to find it won't connect at the highway toll gate, wasting a trip. Then they have to go back to the service center to fix it—what a hassle. The upside is that fixed installation makes passing through faster, with no need to queue. Randomly removing it might also break wires or leave adhesive residue on the glass, making cleaning difficult. So don't try to DIY—just use it as intended.