VEP RFID Tag Not Scanning? A MyMechanic Guide to Border Issues

Your Expert Guide to a Common Motorist's Headache

That Sinking Feeling: When the Gantry Doesn’t Open

You’ve planned your trip, navigated the causeway traffic, and you pull up to the Malaysian gantry... but nothing happens. The barrier remains down. Your VEP RFID tag has failed to scan. It’s a stressful moment that can derail your plans. As Singapore's VEP service leader, MyMechanic has helped countless drivers troubleshoot this exact problem. This expert guide explains what to do in the moment and how to fix it for good.

Immediate Steps to Take at the Border Crossing

Stay Calm and Await Instructions

The most important thing to do is stay calm. Do not repeatedly inch forward or honk. The Malaysian immigration officers see this happen every day. Wait for their signal. They will direct you to a designated lane or an inspection area for manual verification. Be polite and patient; this will help resolve the situation faster.

The Top 3 Reasons for VEP RFID Scanning Failure

From our experience, the issue almost always comes down to one of these three things:

  • Incorrect Placement: The tag must be on the left passenger-side headlamp. Not the windscreen, not the right headlamp. The overhead scanners are precisely calibrated for this spot.
  • Damaged or Worn-Out Tag: The RFID chip inside the sticker is delicate. Damage from harsh car wash chemicals, direct pressure, or simply years of exposure to sun and rain can cause it to fail.
  • Signal Interference: Heavy metallic window tints or even other RFID tags (for your condo or office) placed too close to the VEP tag can interfere with the signal.

The Permanent Fix: Resolving the Issue Back in Singapore

Once you’re back home, it's essential to fix the problem permanently. A non-scanning tag will not magically fix itself. Here’s the MyMechanic-approved action plan:

  1. Step 1: Inspect the Tag Closely: Look for any visible signs of damage—peeling corners, cracks, or discoloration. Is it placed correctly on the left headlamp?
  2. Step 2: Do NOT Try to Peel it Off: The VEP tag is designed to be tamper-proof and will break apart if you attempt to remove it, leaving a sticky mess.
  3. Step 3: Apply for an Official Replacement: The only correct solution is to log into the JPJ VEP portal and apply for a replacement tag. This will deactivate your faulty tag and assign you a new one.

MyMechanic: Your VEP Tag Troubleshooting Partner

Dealing with a faulty VEP tag and the official portal can be a hassle. Let the experts at MyMechanic take care of it for you. We can help diagnose the issue, manage the entire replacement application on your behalf, and provide professional installation for the new tag to guarantee it works perfectly every time.

Fix My Faulty VEP Tag

Frequently Asked Questions by Singaporean Drivers