What does it mean when the ETC card displays 'Label Invalid' after insertion?
2 Answers
When the ETC displays 'Label Invalid,' it means the ETC electronic tag has not been activated. You need to take the ETC device to an ETC service center or ETC service outlet for inspection. If the invalidation is not caused by human factors, a simple secondary activation of the ETC will allow it to be used. ETC Installation Process: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU; the red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display 'Label 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 attach 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 consecutively until the electronic tag screen displays 'Bluetooth On.' If 'Label Invalid' appears after two insertions and removals when the electronic tag is not 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 your phone's Bluetooth and open the corresponding mobile app (usually with a download QR code on the electronic tag), then navigate to the device activation interface. Click 'Device Connection' and wait patiently for the 'Connection Successful' prompt. Once connected, upload a photo of the vehicle's front to complete the activation.
I also encountered the ETC tag failure while driving, and I was really anxious at that time. Tag failure means that the little box stops working, possibly due to loose positioning or a drained battery. That time, I almost got stuck at the highway entrance, but luckily I detected it in advance. Common causes include unstable installation, outdated equipment, or moisture. It's recommended to check if the card is securely inserted after parking and try restarting the device. If it still doesn’t work, don’t force it—quickly go to a repair shop or ETC service center to update the device. Don’t try to dismantle it yourself, as you might damage more components. Testing it a few times before commuting on the highway can help avoid trouble, ensuring safety and saving time. Checking the ETC during regular car maintenance can also extend its lifespan. This issue is common, but the key is not to delay handling it.
