What are the pros and cons of installing ETC in a car?

[VonEmerson]

Pros of installing ETC in a car: 1. Automatic passage: When passing through highway toll stations, the system automatically scans and deducts the fee, eliminating the need to queue for toll payment, which saves the owner's time to a certain extent. 2. Recharge promotions: ETC occasionally offers recharge promotions, which can save a lot of money if the car frequently travels on highways. Cons of installing ETC in a car: 1. Excessive cost: If used infrequently and not often on highways, the cost of ETC may exceed the toll fees. 2. Complicated process: The application process is relatively cumbersome, requiring not only the purchase and installation of the ETC device but also the application for a dedicated bank savings card or credit card. Required materials for ETC application include personal ID, driver's license, vehicle registration, vehicle insurance policy, bank card, etc. 3. Limited usage: The scope of ETC usage is small, and some highway sections are not yet equipped with ETC. 4. Bank card fraud: The bank card linked to ETC is vulnerable to fraudulent activities by criminals.

[StOscar]

When I first installed the ETC, I really found it much more convenient. It saved me over ten minutes of queuing time during my daily highway commute. Zooming past the toll booth without fumbling for change or stopping was super efficient, plus I got to enjoy some discounted rates. However, there are downsides too. First, you have to shell out a few hundred bucks for the device and installation, which stings a bit. And if the device malfunctions, it’s a real hassle—last summer, mine stopped recognizing, leaving me stranded for ages. Plus, there’s this nagging feeling of being tracked; every trip record is stored, and the thought of a potential data leak is frustrating. My advice? Frequent drivers should definitely get one, but for occasional travelers, it’s probably not worth it.

[SanReed]

From a cost-saving perspective, ETC offers significant benefits. For instance, I save on the small change discounts from toll fees, amounting to hundreds of yuan annually. Plus, the time saved allows me to get more work done, meaning the investment pays for itself in just a few months. However, the downside is the high initial cost—nearly 500 yuan for the device and activation fee, which isn't suitable for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some older highways may not be compatible, requiring manual payment during travel. Moreover, the device requires maintenance, and if you don't drive often, it may expire and become useless. It's advisable to calculate based on your actual usage frequency for better cost-effectiveness.

[MichaelDella]

From a technical perspective, ETC automation is excellent, eliminating the need for manual operation to avoid checkpoint congestion and improving overall traffic flow. However, the device relies on electronic signals, occasionally leading to misjudgments or malfunctions, such as failing to read in rainy weather, which can be awkward. Installation is simple and quick, requiring only attachment to the car window. The downside is a small chance of affecting the window's aesthetics. It is recommended to choose a reliable brand to avoid issues.

[SanSebastian]

I place a high value on privacy and security. The advantage of ETC is its convenient, contactless passage, especially reducing risks during the pandemic. However, the downside is quite obvious: it records all travel data, allowing institutions to track locations at any time, which is unsettling, and the device may also be targeted by hackers. Additionally, the initial promotion's mandatory installation sparked controversy, with some people resisting this sense of surveillance. It is advisable to enable anonymous mode or consult legal advice to protect personal freedom.