Smarts and FasTrak

[Carl242]

FYI: Smarts do not yet exist in the Bay Area FasTrak database. I tried to update my account today to add the car, and it wasn't there. Guess I'll just have to carry cash around

[factor9]

Originally Posted by Carl242

FYI: Smarts do not yet exist in the Bay Area FasTrak database. I tried to update my account today to add the car, and it wasn't there. Guess I'll just have to carry cash around

I use my FasTrak from one car to the other and hold it up to the windshield, and it works fine. I'm probably breaking a law, but at least I'm paying my toll and getting through quickly. I'll see what I find online as well. Good point.

[kathy333]

hmmm... i've just used the transponder from my other car... had crossed my mind that I should probably order another one, but just checked my online statement and tolls seem to be charging fine so far...
Kathy

[dstackle]

That's funny, the Fastrak in S.Cal has the smart listed.

[saronian]

I sent an email to FasTrak last year asking the webmaster to add the smart, but they thought I wanted to add my license "smart". It got so confusing I gave up and chose UNKNOWN FORTWO.

Note that you can use your transponder in different vehicles, but the license should be registered on your account under that transponder ID.

Also, if you use the HOV lane during commute time, with two in the car, you should isolate the transponder (in the foil bag) to prevent paying for the toll in the carpool lanes. If you get stuck in a FasTrak lane with two during commute, you should stop and tell the toll taker you want a credit.

The Golden Gate bridge does not allow free passage for two-seater cars with two people.

I researched all this prior to getting the smart. I plan on saving an additional $1,200 in tolls each year by carpooling with two in the smart!

[smartxs]

Originally Posted by kathy333

hmmm... i've just used the transponder from my other car... had crossed my mind that I should probably order another one, but just checked my online statement and tolls seem to be charging fine so far...
Kathy

I did this in a rental car in LA last year and got a ticket. Register the car and license for ANY vehicle you might use in a Fastrak lane! (I protested the ticket and didn't get out of it, as it came through the rental agecy. Others tell me they have gotten relief for cars they own but hadn't registered yet.)

I registered my smart, though no license yet, as Unknown, Smart ForTwo and will add the license when the car is registered smartxs.

[starlord]

you dont have to stick the fastrak on your window, if it's on the dash (actually, it sticks to mine because its cloth and velcro sticks to it) -- just place it in front of you and the scanner will pick it up. sweet! i do have my car registered on the site, i think they list it as "unknown" also. as long as they have your california plate # then you can go through without a ticket, i mean, unless you want a nice b&w photo of the back of your smart going through the tollgate, then go ahead... no, no, no, just kidding ;)

[Carl242]

Are you not worried about the velcro scuffing up the fabric on your dash as you remove it?

[starlord]

hmm, no guess i havent thought about it. i best check my dash for velcro scuff marks on a regular basis! my garage door opener is velcro'd too

i guess i could hold it up to the window like Bob, or stick it on more permanently, but, for now i get a weird satisfaction taking it out then throwing the thing back in the glovebox after going through the toll gate. hey theres an idea, i wonder if it will still work from inside the glovebox?

[LittoDeviL]

I personally carry the FasTrak with me when I switch cars... I just take it out of my glove box and hold it up to the windshield and drive thru, I never had an issue.. as long as it's paid then it's good Not to mention i don't even think I have all my cars in their database.. I think it's when you get caught or.. when it doesn't pick up then you can put your car in and say "oh i forgot to put my car in the database" and they'll let you slide once or twice

Larry