Is there a charge for not using ETC?

[ZoeyLynn]

ETC does not charge when not in use. Below is relevant information about ETC: 1. Technical Principle: The ETC system employs automatic vehicle identification technology to establish wireless data communication between vehicles and toll stations, enabling automatic vehicle recognition and exchange of relevant toll data. By utilizing computer networks for toll data processing, it achieves a fully automatic electronic toll collection system without requiring vehicles to stop or setting up toll booths. 2. Technical Features: The non-stop toll collection technology is particularly suitable for implementation on highways or busy bridge-tunnel environments.

[VonFinn]

I once specifically asked toll booth staff during a long-distance trip, and the ETC device in the car won't deduct money on its own. That little machine remains dormant like an offline phone as long as it doesn't pass through the toll station's sensing area. One time my car sat unused for three months, and the ETC card balance didn't decrease at all. For long-term non-use, it's recommended to remove the card to avoid device wear from solar charging. But pay special attention: bank-issued ETC co-branded credit cards may have annual fees, which is a separate matter from highway tolls. The Ministry of Transport has long stipulated that ETC devices themselves are permanently free to use, so everyone can rest assured.

[MacKayden]

Last year when helping my dad install the ETC, I specifically checked the policies and found there's no need to worry about idle fees. The ETC system only charges when you actually use the highway - the device is just an electronic tag during normal times. I tested leaving my car in the underground garage for two months, and the toll bill remained zero throughout. However, note that if a debit-card style ETC runs out of balance, it may enter a graylist affecting future use. A bank staff member told me the new-generation devices now have extremely low power consumption and can still function even after six months without sunlight exposure.

[PaigeAnn]

When I first bought a car, I also thought that unused ETC would incur maintenance fees, but later found out it was unnecessary worry. The highway toll system is designed intelligently, only activating billing when vehicles pass under the gantry. The small box attached in the car is just a signal receiver, with negligible daily power consumption. A friend's car only used the highway twice in three years, and the ETC never deducted any extra fees. But remember to use it at least once every six months, otherwise it might be flagged as a dormant account by the system.