Since three decades ago, the E-ZPass system has been used in 17 states across the United States’ Midwestern and Eastern areas.
Over thirty years, many improvements have been seen in traffic, such as smoother lanes and enhanced travel experiences for all drivers.
Still, not everything is perfect, and problems related to E-ZPass arise every day. Sometimes, drivers have to face toll violation fees due to a malfunctioning transponder, or maybe the system did not detect their device even if it was functioning correctly.
In some cases, these problems are not related to the device but the windshield.
If you think your E-ZPass has been malfunctioning due to your windshield issues, here we list some of the most common ones and how to solve them.
Some cases may require you to attend a customer service center, but most of them can be easily solved at home. Let’s begin!
Your transponder is not positioned or installed correctly
This problem is more common than you think. If your device is not well installed, the system will not detect it whenever you drive near a toll booth, meaning that you’re basically “evading” a toll, even if you are not aware of it.
However, you probably will notice it after a toll violation notice is sent to your mail, or maybe when you go through your E-ZPass account and see your balance is intact.
The installation process is not complicated. Here you can find some detailed instructions available on the Virginia E-ZPass site.
Not only do they teach you the correct position for the device, but they also provide well-explained information regarding the installation step-by-step.
If your E-ZPass tag is installed correctly and is still not working when you drive through the toll lane, your device is the problem.
You can request a replacement at any time on the website corresponding to your location or by visiting a customer service center.
You are not using the correct transponder for your windshield.
If you have been accidentally not paid for the tolls, it can be because you are not using the correct transponder for your windshield. Therefore, the system will not detect it, and you may face a costly fine soon.
Please get in touch with the customer service center where you registered your E-ZPass tag to avoid this problem. They will give you an answer, depending on the kind of vehicle you possess.
Remember that each E-ZPass tag is assigned to all vehicles individually, too. Suppose you want to learn more about what vehicles need a particular transponder due to having a different windshield.
In that case, this page contains a detailed list with all the information you need. If your car is listed there, it would be best to contact the customer service center as soon as possible to correct the problem.
The Bottom Line
These are some of the most common E-ZPass problems related to the windshield. Still, if you have any doubts, please get in touch with an E-ZPass representative via the website, phone call, or in person.