What to do when the ETC runs out of power?
2 Answers
Solutions for a dead ETC: 1. For solar-powered ETC devices, park the vehicle under sunlight for a period to allow the solar panel to recharge; 2. Take the device to an ETC service center for inspection. If it's within the 2-year warranty period and not damaged due to human factors, a free replacement can be provided. Methods to self-repair a failed ETC tag: 1. Use a pry bar or small flat-head screwdriver to open the electronic tag casing, remove the old battery, and replace it with a new one; 2. Solder the power cord's positive and negative terminals with a soldering iron, then close the device cover. ETC is an Electronic Toll Collection system, and ETC lanes are dedicated to vehicles equipped with ETC onboard units, utilizing electronic payment methods.
When my ETC device suddenly runs out of power, as someone who has driven for many years, I start by checking the simplest steps: after starting the vehicle, I check if the device has any indicator lights on, as some ETC devices are powered by the vehicle's power source. If there's no light, I try unplugging the device and reinserting it into the cigarette lighter or dedicated socket, as poor contact can sometimes cause a false power loss. If there's still no response, I check if the vehicle's fuse has blown, especially the ETC-related circuit in the fuse box. If that doesn't work, I drive to a service point for professional inspection. On the highway, if I encounter this situation, I never force my way through but instead choose the manual toll lane to avoid fines or congestion. In the long run, I've developed the habit of checking the ETC indicator light every time I start the car to ensure the device is functioning properly and reduce such annoyances. If there's a battery issue, I replace it promptly and don't wait until a critical moment to address the problem.
