How to Pack & Protect Your VEP RFID Tag While Washing Your Car

You've invested time and effort into getting your VEP approved and your RFID tag installed. Now, you want to keep your car sparkling clean. But can a routine car wash, especially an automatic one, damage your delicate VEP RFID tag? It's a common concern among Singaporean drivers.

Your VEP RFID tag is a thin sticker affixed to the inside of your windscreen. It contains a tiny, fragile antenna. While it's protected from direct external elements, the windscreen itself is exposed to water, chemicals, and brushes during a wash.

• High-Pressure Water: Can potentially force water under the edges of the sticker if the adhesive is compromised, or even cause micro-fractures in the glass that affect the tag.
• Harsh Chemicals: Certain cleaning agents can degrade the adhesive over time.
• Physical Contact: Brushes or cloths used during the wash can snag or peel the tag if not careful.

If you frequently use automatic car washes, especially those with high-pressure jets or rotating brushes:

• Inform the attendant about your RFID tag.
• Choose a 'touchless' car wash if available, as these rely solely on high-pressure water and chemicals, minimizing physical contact.
• After the wash, quickly inspect your tag for any signs of peeling or bubbling.
• Be Gentle Around the Tag: When cleaning the outside of your windscreen, avoid directing high-pressure water jets directly at the tag area. Use a soft sponge or cloth.
• Interior Cleaning: When cleaning the inside of your windscreen, use a gentle, ammonia-free glass cleaner. Spray the cleaner onto your cloth first, then wipe the glass. Avoid spraying directly onto the tag.

If you notice any of these after a car wash, your tag might be compromised:

• Visible peeling, bubbling, or lifting of the sticker.
• New scratches or tears on the tag.
• Intermittent or complete scan failures at the border (after ensuring eWallet balance is sufficient).

The best defence against car wash damage is a perfectly installed tag. MyMechanic's professional installation ensures your VEP RFID tag is securely affixed to your windscreen with a strong, bubble-free bond. This minimizes the chances of water seepage or accidental peeling.

Frequently Asked Questions