What are the reasons for the ETC device not lighting up after inserting the card?
2 Answers
etc device not lighting up after inserting the card is due to device malfunction or incorrect card insertion method. The method to check if the ETC device is working properly is: After receiving the ETC device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU, and the red light will briefly light up. If the OLED screen displays "Label Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," it indicates the device is functioning normally. The advantages of installing ETC include: 1. Saving time, eliminating the hassle of waiting in line; 2. Green and low-carbon, as vehicles can pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and minimizing pollution; 3. Cost savings, as vehicles can reduce the frequency of starting or braking, lowering wear and fuel consumption, and users can also enjoy discounts on toll fees.
As an experienced driver who has used many ETC-equipped vehicles, if the device doesn't light up after inserting the card, it's likely a power supply or installation issue. First, feel the surface of the device for any heat; if it's hot, there might be an internal short circuit, and you should stop using it to prevent fire. Next, check the cigarette lighter plug—just last week, I encountered a power outage due to a loose plug. Then, see if the ETC card is inserted properly; dirty metal contacts on the card can also prevent reading, so try cleaning them with an alcohol swab. If your windshield has metal or heat-insulating film, it can easily block signals, causing the device to go dark. Also, new devices nowadays need activation via WeChat mini-programs—if not activated and bound, they naturally won't light up. I always keep a spare power cable handy; if self-testing doesn't work, I promptly head to the toll station for assistance.
