What to Do When the ETC Tag Shows Low Battery?
2 Answers
When the ETC battery is low, there will be an alert sound along with a low battery reminder. However, there's no need to panic if the ETC battery is low, as the ETC device has a built-in solar panel that automatically charges when exposed to sufficient sunlight. 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; a red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield to ensure the 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 properly inserted into the OBU device. Benefits of Installing ETC: Saves time by eliminating the need to queue and wait. Environmentally friendly: Vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions, thereby minimizing pollution. Reduces wear and saves costs by decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, lowering wear and fuel consumption. Users also enjoy a 5% discount on toll fees. Improves efficiency: ETC lanes can theoretically increase vehicle throughput by 2-3 times, making traditional ETC systems more updated, faster, and more technologically advanced. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.
When the ETC tag displays a low battery warning, it usually indicates that the built-in battery is nearly depleted, which is common for devices that have been in use for several years. As someone with some knowledge of electronic devices, I would first confirm whether the tag is indeed low on power. Some tags have LED indicators or audible alarms to signal their status. Opening the device cover to check the battery is a good step. If it uses a replaceable coin-cell battery, I can purchase a new one and replace it myself, ensuring the model matches; for rechargeable types, connecting to a charger for a few hours is necessary. It's advisable to keep the tag in a shaded area inside the car to avoid high temperatures that can accelerate battery aging, as battery life typically degrades after three to five years. If the issue persists, promptly contact the bank or highway company where the ETC was issued—they can guide you through repairs or provide a free replacement to prevent additional toll charges due to malfunctioning tags.
