What are the reasons for ETC not being detected?
4 Answers
ETC not being detected can be due to the following reasons: 1. The electronic tag is not properly inserted; 2. Unauthorized removal of the vehicle's electronic tag will render it unusable; 3. The vehicle's windshield is covered with a metal explosion-proof film; 4. OBU transfer or replacement requires visiting a service outlet. ETC operates through dedicated short-range communication between the vehicle's electronic tag installed on the windshield and the microwave antenna on the ETC lane at toll stations. It utilizes computer networking technology to conduct background settlement processing with banks, achieving the purpose of allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay fees.
I encountered an issue with the ETC not being detected while driving, and it was really frustrating! What could be the reason? I think the most common one is the small box (OBU device) running out of power—once the battery life is up, it stops working. Incorrect placement of the tag is also a problem; if there's UV protection film on the windshield, the signal can't get through. Insufficient account balance or a frozen account can also trigger a malfunction—I experienced this last time, and checking my bank app quickly resolved it. Lane equipment failure or driving too fast might also interrupt detection, so it's recommended to slow down and try again or switch lanes when this happens. Don’t overlook these maintenance tips to avoid getting stuck on the highway and adding to the hassle.
Last year during a long-distance trip, my ETC didn't respond at the toll station for a long time, making me sweat with anxiety. After troubleshooting, I found the tag had aged and loosened over time, unable to adhere properly and send signals. It could also be due to the windshield coating—metal films can block signal transmission. Running out of account balance can cause this too; I usually don't check and ended up in trouble. It's advisable to regularly check if the device is properly positioned, try replacing the adhesive or charging it. If that doesn't work, visit a service center—don't let it become a safety hazard. Safety comes first on highways; if this happens, pull over to investigate—it's the safest approach.
As an experienced driver, the main reasons for ETC malfunction are just these few points: the tag is not firmly attached or worn out, the windshield coating blocks the signal, the device battery is depleted, or the account balance is zero. The troubleshooting steps are simple: first, check if the tag is in the correct position and feel if the device is overheating; then, verify if the account balance is normal. If all else fails, try switching lanes or manually paying as an emergency measure. Avoid driving too fast on the highway to prevent interference, and when attaching the tag, avoid metal areas for better reliability. Address the issue promptly to avoid delays.
