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