Are there any requirements for the installation position of ETC in cars?
2 Answers
The ETC installation position for small cars is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it is installed in the middle-lower part. The appropriate installation position should be no lower than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC is the abbreviation for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is processed by a non-owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged between 18 and 60. Below are the precautions for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large rearward tilt angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the right side of the rearview mirror can avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag requires power, but generally, it does not need to be charged or have its battery replaced, as it has a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed on the windshield, the anti-removal lever will be pressed in. If the tag is removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In such cases, you will need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note the following: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle ahead to avoid automatic toll payment for the preceding vehicle. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may prevent the system from reading the vehicle's device information, resulting in a failed toll deduction. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause the toll deduction to fail.
I've installed the ETC several times, and the placement requirements are quite specific. You can't just stick it anywhere. For example, the best spot is on the windshield, usually near the rearview mirror or slightly above the center area, so the toll station cameras can easily scan the signal. If it's placed on the side or the edge of the windshield, it might not be recognized, leading to failed passage or even fines. I've tried testing the signal strength with a mobile app, and the center point works best. Also, pay attention to the film issue—metallic films can interfere with the ETC's RF signal, but switching to a regular transparent film solves the problem. Make sure the device is firmly attached during installation to prevent it from falling off on bumpy roads. Finally, regularly clean the placement area to avoid dust buildup affecting functionality, ensuring the ETC works stably and saves you hassle and money.
