How to Handle ETC After Selling a Car?
2 Answers
After selling the car, if the original license plate number will continue to be used, you need to remove the ETC device, install it in the new car, and reactivate it once. If the license plate number is no longer in use, you need to cancel the original ETC registration. How many ETCs can one person apply for: If a person has only one car under their name, they can only apply for one ETC. If a person owns multiple cars, they can apply for multiple ETCs. ETC Usage Notes: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. When encountering a stopped vehicle ahead, to prevent the vehicle in front from having a faulty ETC device or no ETC device at all, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the vehicle ahead. The recognized speed for ETC lane passage is 20km/h. If the speed is too fast, the vehicle device information cannot be read, which will also result in a failed fee deduction. Unauthorized removal or movement of the OBU device, or if the ETC electronic tag falls off or becomes loose, will cause the electronic tag to fail. It can be sent to the bank where the ETC card was issued or the highway service office for inspection. If the loosening or detachment is not due to human factors, it only needs to be reactivated. When using a debit card to bind with ETC, insufficient balance will also lead to failed fee deductions. Follow the guidance of on-site staff to use the manual MTC lane and pass by cash or card payment. Excessive thickness of the car's windshield may cause poor sensing. This is especially important for vehicles that have had their windshields replaced after an accident or for those who have modified their front windshields.
Last year when I sold my car, I also encountered this ETC issue. At first, I was completely confused, so I went to the bank branch to consult the customer service. They said I needed to bring my ID card and the vehicle registration certificate to cancel the ETC, unbind the old license plate, and avoid the new owner being unable to use it. I went that same day to submit the application, removed the OBU device, and kept it for future use. If not handled promptly, it could lead to incorrect charges or affect credit. It's advisable to get this done a week before selling the car to avoid last-minute chaos on the transaction day. About a month after the quick process, I bought a new car and directly installed the device—highway travel remained fast and time-saving. The whole process is simple but crucial; don’t underestimate this step. Everyone selling their car should prioritize ETC cancellation.
