What to Do with ETC After Changing Cars?
3 Answers
After changing cars with ETC, bring the ETC device, ETC card, the owner's ID card, and driver's license to the local ETC service center to handle the removal. Then, with the removal certificate issued by the ETC service center, go to the contracted bank to terminate the contract. The bank staff will cancel the ETC. After successful cancellation, the new car will undergo an external inspection for registration. Through the dedicated short-range microwave communication between the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station, and using computer networking technology for back-end settlement processing with the bank, the vehicle can pass through the toll station without stopping to pay the toll fees.
You can't just transfer your ETC device when changing cars - it needs to be properly removed first. I learned this the hard way during my last vehicle switch when the adhesive was so strong it nearly cracked my windshield. Here's the right way: Call your ETC bank's customer service or visit an ETC service center to process the transfer, remembering to bring your ID and vehicle registration. The crucial step is completely removing the old device - many places won't do this for you. Try carefully cutting through the adhesive with fishing line. Before installing on your new car, thoroughly clean the windshield with alcohol, otherwise the device might detach while driving at highway speeds - terrifying! Never attempt to simply insert your card into a new device yourself, as the system will detect this and freeze your account.
Speaking of ETC transfer, I've had some trouble with it too. If you're getting a new car, it's actually quite simple—just bring your documents to an ETC service point and fill out a vehicle change application. But for used cars, you need to be careful. Last time I helped a friend with it: the buyer needs to reapply for ETC, and the seller must bring the original device to cancel it. Otherwise, the license plate will be occupied, and the new car won't be able to register for ETC. A key reminder: overdue fees for more than 30 days can affect your credit. Also, you can now make online appointments for processing. Just upload your documents on the 'ETC Assistant' mini-program, and the new device will be mailed directly to your home for self-installation.
