How long does the ETC battery last?

[MacAddyson]

Generally, an ETC device can last 2-3 months on a single charge. The ETC user manual does not specify how long a single charge lasts. For car owners who do not frequently use ETC, it is recommended to charge the ETC device every 3 months. For wired power-supplied ETC devices, if they are not used for a long time, it is advised to charge them once a month to avoid affecting the battery lifespan due to self-discharge. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which refers to the electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, the following documents are required: the owner's valid ID card and vehicle license (original and copies), and if the application is made by a proxy, the proxy's valid ID card is also needed. The copy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. For company vehicles, the required documents include: A letter of introduction from the vehicle owner (with company seal); a copy of the organization code certificate or business license (with company seal); the original ID card of the proxy; the original vehicle license; and the vehicle for which ETC is to be installed. ETC works by communicating with microwave antennas in ETC lanes at toll stations via an onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield. It uses computer networking technology to settle payments with banks in the background, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay tolls. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Avoids the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Reduces noise and exhaust emissions as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping; Cost-saving: Reduces vehicle wear and fuel consumption by minimizing start-stop cycles, and users can enjoy toll discounts; Efficiency improvement: ETC lanes can theoretically increase passing efficiency by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC faster and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[McGriffin]

My ETC device has been working fine for over five years. The technician said the built-in battery typically lasts five to ten years, depending on usage habits. Solar-powered models can recharge as long as they get sunlight, and short daily trips actually help conserve power. However, frequent parking in underground garages drains the battery faster, shortening its lifespan. I once saw someone’s device leak battery fluid after a hard brake knocked it loose, so make sure it’s securely mounted to avoid impacts. When the green light turns red, it means the battery is almost dead—the safest option is to get a replacement at a highway toll station from customer service. Trying to remove it yourself might trigger the anti-theft lock.

[VonAllie]

I recently looked into this. There are two types of OBU device batteries: regular lithium batteries last 5-8 years, while solar-assisted ones can last around 10 years. Actually, battery drain speed mainly depends on three factors: exposure to direct sunlight (high heat damages batteries most), highway driving frequency (daily highway use drains power faster), and device version (older models consume power aggressively). It's recommended to place it in the middle of the windshield instead of the dashboard - this ensures sunlight exposure while preventing overheating. Based on statistics from our fleet of 30-40 vehicles, we replace devices every 7 years on average.

[MariaAnn]

Both of our family cars have solar-powered ETC devices, and the manual states a theoretical lifespan of ten years. In reality, the first one alerted us to low battery after seven years, and the service center said the coin cell had failed and even damaged the circuit board. Signs of battery aging include yellowed buttons and slower response times. The newer models now come with built-in supercapacitors that only power up when passing through toll gates, consuming almost no energy when idle. However, if the battery truly dies, don’t try to pry it open yourself—the anti-tamper lock will render the device useless once triggered. Instead, visit a bank or highway service point to get it replaced on the spot for around a hundred yuan.

[RobertAnn]

Field tests show that older ETC devices in Northeast China fail after five years, with battery capacity halved in extreme cold. New models can withstand temperatures from -40°C to 85°C, but prolonged exposure to sunlight may cause bulging. My auto shop frequently repairs sun-damaged units—reminder: use sunshades in summer! Battery depletion may cause transaction failures or blank screens; if you hear a beep but the barrier doesn’t move, check the power. Before long trips, press the device button annually to test responsiveness—delays exceeding three seconds warrant caution.