How to deal with ETC malfunction?
3 Answers
Check if the OBU (On-Board Unit) fixed on the front windshield of the car has fallen off. If it falls off, the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU will reset, and you need to go to the ETC card service point for reactivation. Additional information: 1. ETC (Electronic-Toll-Collection), translated as Electronic Toll Collection in Chinese, is an automatic toll collection system for highways or bridges. 2. The ETC system uses automatic vehicle identification technology to complete wireless data communication between the vehicle and the toll station, enabling automatic vehicle recognition and exchange of relevant toll data. 3. The ETC system performs wireless communication and information exchange between the on-board device installed on the vehicle and the antenna installed on the toll station lane. When the vehicle passes through the toll station, the loop sensor detects the vehicle, the RSU sends an interrogation signal, the OBU responds, and two-way communication and data exchange take place.
I've been driving for many years and have encountered ETC malfunctions several times, which were annoying but always solvable. Common causes include depleted device batteries, loose or dirty tags on the windshield affecting signal transmission, vehicles moving too fast to be detected, or insufficient balance in the ETC card account. Here's how to handle it step by step: First, pull over or stop in a safe place and turn off the engine, then check the indicator light on the device. If the light is off or blinking, the battery might be dead—replacing it with a spare is simple. If the light is normal but the device isn’t responding, try cleaning the tag and reattaching it firmly. If that doesn’t work, use a mobile app or contact the ETC service hotline for remote activation, which is free and quick. On the highway, never block the toll gate—use the manual lane first to avoid fines. Make it a habit to check the battery life and device slot monthly to ensure smooth ETC operation, saving both money and time while driving more safely. Don’t let minor issues disrupt your trip.
As a frequent driver, my ETC occasionally encounters issues, mostly due to unstable device signals. My usual troubleshooting steps are simple: first, check if the device's light is on. If it's a battery issue, I just buy a new one for around 20 yuan and replace it myself. If the tag position is misaligned, reattaching it usually fixes the problem. Sometimes, if there's no response at the toll booth, I slow down to under 30 km/h and try again. If the issue is caused by insufficient balance in the card account, I immediately top up via the mobile app, and the funds are credited instantly. Importantly, never force through when the device malfunctions to avoid subsequent fines. Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking the ETC device, can prevent most issues, making highway driving smoother and more hassle-free.
