Can ETC be installed on the black dot area of the windshield?
4 Answers
The ETC device can be installed on the black dot area of the windshield, as long as it does not obstruct the driver's view and can detect the toll station's detection equipment. However, installing it on the black dot area has a drawback: the solar charging capability of the ETC device may weaken, and over time, it could run out of power. For small cars, the ETC is generally installed in the upper-middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower-middle part. The suitable installation position should be at a height of no less than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 and 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket anti-explosion film, which may affect microwave communication signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window strip. Here are some ETC installation precautions: Do not obstruct the view; installing it behind the rearview mirror is best: Many car models have windshields with a significant rearward tilt, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it could increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side avoids obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the black areas of the windshield or positions where the solar panel might be blocked. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield presses the anti-tamper lever in. If removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable, requiring a visit to an ETC service point for unlocking. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. ETC usage notes: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid issues caused by the vehicle ahead's ETC device malfunctioning, maintain a distance of over 10 meters from the vehicle ahead to prevent automatic payment for its toll. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to payment failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause payment failure.
I have some experience installing ETC devices and often help friends with it. Regarding whether ETC can be placed on the black dots on the windshield, I think it's not advisable. Those black dots are ceramic frit areas designed to reduce glare or dissipate heat, but they contain metallic materials that can interfere with ETC signal transmission. Since ETC relies on microwave communication with roadside equipment, placing it on the black dots may cause recognition failure. I've seen cases where people did this and the device didn't respond at toll stations, wasting time and requiring reinstallation. The correct position should be a clean spot at the top of the windshield, such as near the central rearview mirror. Before installation, wipe the glass with an alcohol pad to remove grease and dust, ensuring the adhesive is secure to prevent wobbling. Remember, don't block the driver's view—safety first. Regularly remove the card and clean internal dust to extend the device's lifespan. If the black dots occupy a large area, a slight offset is acceptable, but avoid direct coverage to prevent future issues. In short, choosing an unobstructed spot is the safest option.
As an ordinary car owner who pays attention to automotive details, I believe that ETC should not be installed on the black dots of the windshield. The black dot area is made of special materials that may interfere with signal transmission, potentially causing the ETC to malfunction. It is advisable to choose a clean spot at the top of the windshield for installation. Ensure the adhesive is secure to prevent loosening due to bumps. Regularly checking the device's condition can also improve passage efficiency.
After years of driving, I've found that placing the ETC device on the black dots on the windshield is a bad idea. The black dots contain metallic materials that can interfere with the signal, causing slow or failed toll recognition. Personally, I prefer to place it near the rearview mirror in an area without black dots, ensuring a firm attachment for hassle-free use. Before installation, clean the windshield thoroughly to avoid dirt affecting adhesion. If mistakenly placed there, adjust it as soon as possible to prevent issues on the highway. For daily use, occasionally wipe the device to prevent dust buildup, ensuring long-term durability. Simply put: avoid the black dots to reduce trouble.
