Can ETC be used without sticking to the windshield?
4 Answers
ETC can be used without sticking it to the windshield. Installing ETC on the upper part of the windshield is to minimize obstruction of the driver's view and to ensure better recognition by highway toll station equipment. If you don't want to install it on the windshield, try to place it in an open position where it can be seen through the windshield. For small cars, the ETC installation position is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, the installation position is in the lower middle part. The suitable 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 microwave signal transmission, ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. Here are some precautions for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the view; it's best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply inclined windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing ETC without considering this can increase blind spots for the driver. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can help avoid 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 blackened areas of the windshield or in positions where the solar panel might be blocked. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The adhesive pad in the middle has an anti-removal rod connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield presses the anti-removal rod in. If the tag is removed arbitrarily, the rod will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You would then 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 avoid issues caused by the ETC device of the vehicle in front malfunctioning, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from the vehicle ahead to prevent automatic payment for the wrong vehicle. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and cause payment failure. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also lead to payment failure.
From my years of driving experience, it's best to place the ETC tag on the windshield as it's the official designed position. If not properly mounted, such as casually placing it on the dashboard or in the glove box, the signal may be obstructed due to interference from vehicle metal components and electronic devices. Once, I forgot to mount it and couldn't get detected at the highway toll gate, forcing me to reverse and nearly causing an accident. Now, I check the adhesive during every windshield cleaning to ensure it's secure. It's recommended to place it near the rearview mirror as suggested by manufacturers for the smoothest signal. Avoid moving it around in hot summer areas, as overheating can cause more malfunctions. If you really need to change its position, consult the service center, but most times it's just inviting trouble—affecting toll accuracy and requiring extra time for reactivation. In short, mounting it on the windshield is more worry-free and safer.
As someone who pays attention to automotive technology, I've found that ETC devices operate via radio frequency signals, and the windshield is an ideal carrier because it doesn't block transmission. If you don't want to stick it on the glass, such as placing it on the seat or door frame, it may lead to signal attenuation, causing toll stations to fail in recognition, triggering incorrect deductions or delays. From my practice, placing it in the correct position can also reduce electromagnetic interference and extend battery life. Repositioning after moving carries significant risks, especially on bumpy roads where it might fall off and require repair. Considering the in-car environment optimization, it's best not to attempt displacement to avoid adding inconvenience to driving. Occasionally, I hear of people successfully moving it, but those are rare special cases; for general devices, sticking to the original position is the most reliable.
I prioritize daily driving safety, and not attaching the ETC to the windshield poses significant risks. For example, placing it on the dashboard may cause it to go unnoticed at toll booths, leading to sudden braking and rear-end collisions. If the device becomes loose and falls into the pedal area, it becomes even more dangerous. The windshield position is designed to eliminate obstructions and ensure smooth passage. Moving it also requires signal readjustment, which wastes effort. Properly securing it is the key solution.
