Does the onboard ETC need charging?
3 Answers
Installing ETC does not require charging, as the ETC uses its own built-in power source. The ETC electronic tag consumes power, but there is no need to charge the battery during normal use because there is a solar panel on the back of the battery that can charge itself. During installation, it is necessary to avoid the black areas on the front windshield. The built-in power source of the ETC typically has a battery life cycle of 3-5 years. ETC is the abbreviation for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning the electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the vehicle owner's valid ID card and a copy, as well as the original and a copy of the vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent must also bring their valid ID card and a copy. The copy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway toll fees is required. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name. Documents required for official vehicles: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a copy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the original ID card of the agent; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle that needs to have ETC installed. How ETC works: Through the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles accounts with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pay highway or bridge tolls without stopping when passing through toll stations. Benefits of installing ETC: Saves time: eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: promotes low-carbon travel, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Saves wear and tear: reduces costs, decreases the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, and minimizes wear and fuel consumption; Improves efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase traffic efficiency by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC updates faster and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
When I first bought my car, I also wondered if the onboard ETC needed charging, worrying it might suddenly stop working. After asking around, I learned this thing basically doesn’t require manual charging—it usually has a built-in small battery that automatically powers up via the car’s cigarette lighter or solar energy. During regular use, the ETC charges itself, making toll deductions on highways smooth and hassle-free. However, if the car sits idle for a month or two, the battery might drain and malfunction, requiring you to start the car and drive a bit to reactivate it. Last time I was on a long business trip without driving, the ETC didn’t work when I returned, but a 10-minute drive on the highway fixed it. Just use it regularly and don’t worry—maintenance is simple: clean the windshield periodically to avoid blocking the solar panel. Now I feel much more at ease—every time I pass through a toll station, it’s lightning-fast, saving me queue time so I can enjoy some music.
We have an SUV equipped with an ETC device, and I've never had to worry about charging it. It's designed quite intelligently, connecting to the vehicle's power system to operate automatically and charging whenever the car starts. After using it for a long time, I've found the device to be very reliable, never failing due to a lack of power. During long trips through toll stations, it scans quickly and accurately, making things hassle-free. Just a reminder to everyone: don't tamper with the ETC box. It's stuck to the windshield for a reason—moving it might loosen it or affect the signal. If the car is parked for an extended period, the battery might go into sleep mode, but driving for a few minutes will wake it up. Using ETC isn't just about convenience; it also enhances driving safety by reducing the risk of rear-end collisions at toll booths. It's truly practical and safe.
