How Long Does an ETC Battery Last?
3 Answers
It can last for 3 years. Currently, ETC devices are powered either by solar charging or via a charging cable. If any quality issues arise with the ETC device during the 2-year warranty period, it can be repaired or replaced at ETC bank service outlets. ETC application requirements are as follows: Provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. The photocopy of the driver's license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Fill out a credit card application form, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After receiving the credit card, swipe it twice and present the POS slips to claim and install the ETC onboard device for free at designated outlets, with no additional charges. Applicants must be aged between 18 and 60. Own a vehicle registered under a personal name. For company vehicles applying for ETC, the following documents are required: company introduction letter, business license, business license copy, company seal, legal representative's ID, vehicle driver's license, and vehicle registration certificate. These documents can be submitted at various bank outlets or the One-Card Company. Business license or organization code certificate, original company authorization letter for ETC service application with official seal, original and photocopy of the agent's ID, and original vehicle registration certificate. ETC installation process is as follows: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU; a red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield to ensure it is smooth, clean, and dry. Then, peel off the OBU adhesive backing and stick it to the installation position, pressing firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, ensuring the chip is properly inserted into the OBU device. ETC usage precautions: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. If the vehicle in front stops, maintain a distance of over 10 meters to prevent automatic fee deduction for the wrong vehicle in case of ETC device failure or absence. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h. Driving too fast may prevent the system from reading the vehicle's device information, leading to failed transactions. Unauthorized removal or movement of the OBU device, or if the ETC electronic tag falls off or becomes loose, will render the tag invalid. It can be taken to the bank where the ETC card was issued or a highway service center for inspection. If the issue is not due to human error, reactivation may suffice. When using a debit card for ETC, insufficient balance may cause transaction failures. Follow on-site staff instructions to use manual MTC lanes with cash or card payments. Thick or modified windshields may cause poor signal reception, especially for vehicles that have had windshield replacements after accidents or modifications.
The ETC device installed in my car has been working for almost five years. I frequently drive on highways, and the battery has proven to be quite durable—I feel it can easily last four to five years. There are many factors that affect battery lifespan. For instance, higher usage frequency naturally drains the battery faster, and since I often take long trips, the wear is slightly greater. Environmental temperature also plays a role—prolonged exposure to high temperatures in summer, like parking under direct sunlight all day, accelerates battery aging. That’s why I make a habit of parking in the shade or using a car cover. Additionally, the quality of the device itself is crucial. Newer ETC models come with automatic charging features, such as solar assistance, making the battery even more resilient and reducing worries about frequent replacements. If the device stops lighting up, don’t panic—just drive to a service center for inspection. Never attempt to dismantle it yourself to avoid damaging components or voiding the warranty. In short, how long an ETC battery lasts largely depends on maintenance and driving habits.
For regular car owners, an average ETC battery lifespan of three to five years is considered normal. From my experience, proper maintenance can extend its life. Avoid exposing it to extreme conditions—like freezing in winter or overheating in a parked car during summer, as these can damage it. After parking, remember to close windows and doors for proper ventilation. Additionally, regular usage helps keep it active; I take at least one highway trip monthly to recharge the battery and prevent degradation from prolonged inactivity. When the device signals low battery, address it promptly—don’t wait until it fails completely. I once faced a tollgate recognition failure due to a dead battery, which wasted time and caused hassle. It’s best to contact a service center for quick replacement—modern services are efficient. Brand choice also matters; newer models with energy-saving features tend to last longer.
