Can ETC be installed in the black area?
3 Answers
ETC devices can be installed on the black dots of the windshield as long as they do not obstruct the driver's view and can detect the toll station's equipment. However, installing them outside the black dots has drawbacks, such as reduced solar charging capability, which may lead to power depletion over time. Correct ETC installation positions: For small vehicles like cars and minivans, the ETC card and OBU device should be installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, the installation position is on the lower middle part. ETC installation requirements: height should be no lower than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters; the installation angle N should be between 30º and 90º (the angle between the electronic tag surface and the horizontal plane). 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 air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, ensuring the chip is inserted into the OBU device.
When I worked at an automotive accessories shop, I installed ETC devices on many cars, and mounting them on the black area of the windshield is completely feasible—it's actually the standard position. That black patch is a dot matrix design area specifically meant for attaching items, so it won’t obstruct the driver’s view or interfere with signals like other areas might. The installation steps are simple: first, clean the glass to ensure it’s dust-free, wipe it with an alcohol pad, then use the included static cling sticker to secure the ETC box, typically placing it on the upper front passenger side facing the front of the car. Be careful not to mount it in areas blocked by windshield wipers, as this could cause signal issues during rain or snow. I’ve handled cases where the device was incorrectly placed—for example, a driver stuck it in front of the steering wheel, which distracted them and nearly caused an accident. After repositioning it to the black dot area, everything worked smoothly. For optimal ETC operation, ensure the solar panel gets sunlight; the black strip helps by reducing glare, extending the device’s lifespan. Once installed, periodically test it by driving through a toll station—if the green light turns on, everything’s working fine.
As a safety-conscious veteran driver, I always prioritize the secure placement of my ETC device. Installing it within the dotted black area on the windshield is a wise choice, as this peripheral location won't obstruct driving visibility. Improper placement—such as mounting it directly in front of the driver—can block crucial road information during high-speed travel, especially in adverse weather conditions with higher risks. I once experienced signal misreading and overcharging due to incorrect ETC positioning, but after relocating it to the black dotted zone, the issues vanished completely. Always use specialized anti-tamper adhesive strips during installation to ensure the device stays firmly attached. Additionally, avoid covering the entire black area with adhesive—leave some space to maintain signal clarity. The ETC battery draws solar energy more reliably through the blackened section, preventing power shortage malfunctions. I recommend test-driving on highways after initial installation to verify functionality, ensuring both safety and peace of mind.
