What does ETC tag failure mean and how to deal with it?
2 Answers
ETC tag failure occurs because ETC is dedicated to specific vehicles. During installation, there is a protective linkage mechanism. There is a push-button switch on the side that adheres to the car's windshield. If this switch button is triggered twice consecutively, it will cause the ETC electronic tag to fail. The solution is: Take the device to the bank where you applied for the ETC or the highway service office for a reset. If the failure is due to loosened adhesive, simply reactivate it. Special cases: When receiving a new ETC device, if you press the anti-tamper switch on the back and the red light briefly turns on, the OLED display will show "ETC tag failure," indicating that the ETC electronic tag is not activated. This is a normal phenomenon.
ETC tag failure means the device cannot be properly recognized for toll deduction at highway toll stations. I used to encounter this issue frequently while driving. Sometimes it's due to a dead battery, aging equipment that fails to start, or a loose tag causing poor contact. The solution is quite simple: first, check if the tag on the windshield is firmly attached and if the card is properly inserted. If that doesn’t work, try removing it to recharge—most newer models have built-in batteries and can be restored with a quick charge. If the problem persists, there might be an internal malfunction, and you’ll need to contact an ETC service point for inspection or replacement. For regular use, I recommend periodically checking the tag’s status to avoid last-minute panic on the highway, which could waste time or even result in fines. A quick DIY check of the battery or card slot can save you the hassle of multiple trips to the 4S shop.
