There are many techniques through which the FASTag sticker can be easily removed from the vehicle windshield without damaging the glass or leaving an obnoxious sticky residue behind. At the same time, if the process is carried out correctly, it will be very simple and fun.
This guide gives the steps required on how to remove FASTag from the windshield, leaving it clean and residue-free.
Materials You Will Need to Remove FASTag From Windshield
Here is a list of things you need to have at your place to make sure that the FASTag sticker is lifted safely, without possible damage:
Hairdryer or Heat Gun: To have a hairdryer or a heat gun is really very important as it will soften the adhesive on the sticker so that it can be peeled off without having to dry or pull on it. Low heat is enough to melt the glue and not damage the windshield.
Flexible Plastic Card: A flexible and hard plastic card should be used for the purpose. An old credit card or a membership card could be good for it. It will stick better than a blunt knife or sharp edge which might scratch the glass.
Adhesive Remover (Optional): Adhesive remover may dissolve residual adhesives sticking on the glass, but it is not guaranteed to have the desired effect, and indeed might do more damage than good, and so care must be employed checking with other home cures such as rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover, making sure to first try out a little patch so as not to ruin the windshield.
Soft Cloth: A soft clean cloth is required to apply adhesive remover and mop up remaining residue. Avoid rough or abrasive materials that might scratch the glass surface.
Soap and Water: After the sticker and adhesive remover are thoroughly removed, soap and water is great for cleaning the windshield. It helps keep the glass clear of any leftover residue.
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How to Remove FASTag from Windshield? - Step by Step Process
When removing the FASTag sticker from your vehicle's windshield, extreme precautions should be taken not to damage the windshield nor leave any residue on it when finished with the removal. For more convenience, you can also check your FASTag status online before removal to ensure all details are up to date.
The full procedure is as follows:
Soften the Adhesive
Next, the adhesive will be softened before the FASTag sticker is removed.
Turn on the electric hair dryer or heating tool at low to medium heat setting so as not to overheat the windshield.
Hold it at around 6 to 8 inches from the outline of the FASTag sticker, making it evenly distribute its heat without damaging that area.
Move the hair dryer back and forth across the sticker for about 2-3 minutes. This, in a way, loosens the adhesive so that the sticker may peel off easily without leaving behind significant residue.
Take Off That FASTag
Once the adhesive has turned a little soft, then you are all set to peel it.
Use your fingernail, or try using the edge of the plastic card. It is a very good idea since you will not scratch the windshield because you are using something blunt against a sharp one, as in the case of nails.
Try peeling the sticker from one corner; no hustling. Otherwise one tends to tear the sticker clean and leave behind the adhesive fragments adhered to the glass. If the sticker is tough, reheat for one more minute to loosen the adhesive a bit more and continue peeling slowly and steadily up until all stickers are off.
Now is where you take your time to prevent leaving many residues.
This really helps in making the adhesive softer. Now it would easily come off all fast. You can simply peel off the FASTag sticker.
Remove Adhesive Residue
A residual adhesive might remain on the glass once the FASTag is removed.
Using a soft cloth, apply a minimal amount of adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol. They can effectively break down adhesives without causing damage to the windshield.
Gently rub the area in circular motions with a light touch to dissolve and lift the adhesive.
If the residue proves particularly stubborn, repeat the previous steps until it is removed. For more serious waxes, alternatives such as nail polish remover can do the trick. Use caution here, though, and try removing the other small section first to test for glass damage.
Final Polish
Once all of the adhesive is removed from the windshield, it's time to clean it until it is polished and free of residue.
Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing soap and water in a small bucket or spray bottle.
Using a soft cloth or sponge, wash the windshield, paying extra attention to the area where the FASTag once resided. This removes any trace of adhesive remover or rubbing alcohol.
Rinse the windshield with clean water until there is nothing left behind.
Dry the windshield with a lint-free cloth to avoid streaking and get a clean finish.
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Things to Look Out for in Success
Some of the general issues that people face are:
Accessibility Issues with the FASTag: In cases where the sticker is partially obstructed by the rearview mirror, temporarily removing the mirror will ensure easier accessibility. If this is the method to be adopted, ensure you have knowledge of re-fixing it back.
Try Adhesive Removers: Always test the adhesive removers on a small, inconspicuous spot on the windshield to check for discoloration or potential damage before applying them in full.
Patience Pays: Removing a old or deactivated FASTag sticker can be a long process. Avoid aggressive scraping that could either scratch the glass or damage the windshield. Take time for a clean removal.
Why It’s Important to Remove FASTags Properly
The answer on how to remove FASTag from windshield could cause lasting damage to your windshield. Adhesive residue may harden and become more difficult to remove, and aggressive scraping can leave scratches or even cracks in the glass. Proper removal techniques will use heat to soften the adhesive, a plastic card for peeling, and adhesive removers for residue. This sort of removal will keep your windshield intact and with a good look.
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Conclusion
For those wanting to replace or deactivate FASTag accounts, use online services to simplify. Sometimes when you buy FASTag online, you can complete your FASTag status check, and online FASTag recharge on a few platforms. With proper maintenance and careful removal, follow the above listed steps and precautions to be taken on how to remove FASTag from windshield.