Can ETC be installed in the black area of the front windshield?
4 Answers
ETC cannot be installed in the black area of the front windshield. The ETC electronic tag requires power, but it does not need to be charged or have its battery replaced regularly because there is a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, when installing, avoid the black area on the windshield and do not place it in a position where the solar panel might be easily blocked. ETC is the Electronic Toll Collection system, also known as the Fully Automatic Electronic Toll Collection system. It is one of the service functions of the Intelligent Transportation System and is particularly suitable for use on highways or in busy bridge and tunnel environments. Currently, there are dedicated ETC toll lanes at highway toll stations.
I previously tried installing the ETC device in the black dotted area on the windshield, but the performance was poor. That black area is a sunshade coating, which may contain metallic components that can interfere with the ETC's radio signals, often resulting in insensitive or failed recognition at toll stations. Once, when I passed through a high-speed toll gate, there was no response, almost causing a traffic jam. The issue was resolved after I repositioned it to the transparent area. For safety reasons, I recommend checking your vehicle manual or device instructions—most recommend installing near the rearview mirror in a clear, uncolored spot. If you must place it there, test the signal strength with a temporary method first, but generally, choosing the transparent area is the safest option. Regularly cleaning the windshield and checking the device's adhesive is also important to prevent unexpected issues.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I know ETC installation positioning is quite particular. Mounting the device on the windshield's black dotted area? It works for some vehicles, but in most cases, the coating weakens the signal. Through testing various positions, I've noticed the black area causes delayed response at toll gates. I recommend selecting a test spot first—if it functions normally, great; otherwise, relocate it near the rearview mirror in the clear zone. The coating might contain shielding layers that interfere with RF transmission, so don't prioritize aesthetics alone. Clean the windshield surface with alcohol before securing it to ensure the adhesive tape bonds firmly, preventing detachment during driving. Proper positioning also affects nighttime usage due to headlight illumination, and correct placement enhances overall safety performance.
It is generally not recommended to place the ETC device in the black area of the front windshield. That area is designed with an anti-UV coating, which can easily block the device's signal, causing toll stations to fail in accurately reading it and increasing driving risks. I have experienced the inconvenience when it malfunctions. It's best to install it on a transparent, colorless part, such as near the rearview mirror, to ensure stable signal reception. When attaching the device, clean the windshield to avoid dust affecting the connection. If there are issues after installation, promptly adjust its position to prevent safety incidents.
