What does it mean when an ETC card has no electronic tag?

[StColton]

An ETC card without an electronic tag means the device is currently unavailable and needs to be reinstalled and reactivated at the original processing point or any highway ETC service center. The ETC installation process is as follows: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and the electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU. A red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning normally. Clean the front windshield to ensure the glass surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then peel off the adhesive backing of the OBU and stick it to the installation position. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, ensuring the chip is inserted into the OBU device. ETC activation method: Insert and remove the ETC card twice in succession until the electronic tag screen displays "Bluetooth On." If "Tag Invalid" appears when inserting and removing the card twice without the electronic tag attached, this is normal and does not affect activation. Alternatively, press the button on the top of the electronic tag to enable Bluetooth directly. Turn on the phone’s Bluetooth and open the corresponding mobile app (usually a download QR code is provided on the electronic tag), then enter the device activation interface. Click "Connect Device" and wait patiently for the "Connection Successful" prompt. Once connected, upload a photo of the vehicle’s front to complete activation.

[SanGrace]

I've been driving for over a decade and frequently use ETC on highways, so here's my experience to share: The ETC card is essentially a bank card, much like a credit card. But the electronic tag is that small square device mounted on your car's windshield. Without this tag, the ETC card is useless; it must be inserted into the tag to be scanned by the antenna at toll stations for payment. Simply put, the card stores your vehicle's information, while the tag communicates with the toll station. When I first installed the tag, it was provided for free by the bank; once paired with the card, it allows automatic gate passage, saving you from queuing. The tag's placement is crucial—don't let it obstruct your view. Some mistakenly think the card can be used alone, but that's not the case; if the tag is damaged or improperly installed, the card won't work either. Remember to get it repaired at a 4S shop or the bank to avoid travel delays. This combo design is all about security and convenience.

[VonAdaline]

As a tech enthusiast, I'm quite familiar with the ETC system: the key to electronic toll collection lies in the equipment and the card. The ETC card contains a chip that stores data, but without an electronic tag, it means the OBU device is missing; it's installed in the vehicle to emit radio waves, and the toll station receives the signal to complete the deduction. The card is activated when inserted into the tag; without the tag, the card is just a piece of plastic and can't function. The onboard tag is usually attached to the front window and has a built-in battery that lasts for several years. I've learned that device malfunctions can render the card ineffective, requiring checks for loose positioning or interference. Some new car models now come with integrated tags, which is more convenient. ETC is handy, but it relies entirely on the equipment's operation; it's recommended to regularly maintain the tag to avoid issues.

[DiEthan]

When I first got my car and applied for an ETC card, I was confused too: the card was issued, and the bank said it could charge automatically, but nothing happened when I passed the toll booth. Later, I learned: the electronic tag is that small device stuck on the windshield, about the size of a phone; the ETC card must be inserted into it to work. Without the tag, the card alone can't do anything—it's just a decoration. Banks or 4S shops provide the tag for free; you need to bring your card to install it and have them bind it. After installation, it saves parking time. Now I understand, the tag is the core equipment, and the card is just an authorization tool.

[OGenesis]

I often help customers at the auto repair shop with their questions: An ETC card without an electronic tag means the vehicle's onboard device is missing, rendering the card unusable. In the ETC system, the card is the bank card component, while the electronic tag is the OBU device responsible for signal transmission. Without it, the card becomes ineffective. Common reasons include the tag not being installed or being damaged; it is recommended to apply at the bank for a free replacement. The tag must be correctly placed on the front windshield to avoid obstruction or detachment. During inspection, check the indicator light; if the card is inserted but the light doesn't turn on, it's a tag issue. Once properly installed, it makes passing through highways very convenient.