Can I install the ETC device by myself?

[VonDaniela]

ETC devices can be installed by yourself as long as you follow the correct installation steps. Generally, ETC can be installed in an open area on the front windshield, as long as it does not obstruct the driver's view. The optimal installation position is at the upper part of the front windshield, behind the rearview mirror, preferably around the black dot area. Installing it in the black dot area is mainly to prevent insufficient sunlight in winter, which may lead to low battery levels, as the black dot area can block some sunlight. ETC is an Electronic Toll Collection system used for automatic toll collection on highways or bridges. It works through dedicated short-range communication between the vehicle's electronic tag installed on the windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. By utilizing computer networking technology and bank backend settlement processing, it enables vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay the tolls.

[VonOlive]

Last time I saw someone get stuck at the toll gate while trying to install their own ETC device at the highway entrance—it was quite awkward. Actually, I don't recommend DIY installation because the device requires professional activation, and the placement is also very particular. You need to avoid the black dotted area on the windshield; otherwise, the signal will be intermittent. Cheap devices bought online often get blacklisted by the system—it’s better to get one for free from a bank. My colleague tried sticking it on himself, but the solar charging spot was blocked by the rearview mirror, and the device ran out of power in less than a week. What’s even more troublesome is repairs—if a self-installed device has issues, you have to visit the service center yourself, whereas bank-issued devices can be serviced with just a phone call for on-site support.

[StBenjamin]

The ETC device on my car was installed directly at the toll station, and the staff completed it in just ten minutes. The biggest fear of self-installation is misplacement leading to signal interruption, especially for cars with metal film on the windshield—professional help is a must. I've seen people stick the device on the black ceramic dots, and it didn't respond at all when passing through the toll gate. The activation process requires internet connection to bind vehicle information, which is difficult for individuals to handle. Additionally, new devices come with anti-removal springs; accidentally triggering them during self-installation means reactivation is needed, which is quite troublesome. Nowadays, banks and highway service points offer free installation services, so why take the risk yourself?

[LailaDella]

ETC may seem like just sticking a device on your car, but it actually involves vehicle certification and system coordination. Banks require on-site verification of your vehicle license when applying for ETC, while self-purchased devices online may have information binding loopholes. I remember last year my neighbor bought a cheap ETC online, only to find out on the highway that it was on the gray list. What's more troublesome is device maintenance - service outlets simply don't recognize third-party devices. The installation position also matters - it must be placed in the unobstructed upper area of the windshield, with consideration for solar panel exposure. It's better to go to professional institutions for ETC - much more worry-free.

[Skylar]

Car electronics are more complicated than they seem. ETC involves financial transactions, and self-installation may pose a risk of unauthorized charges. Professional installation requires connecting to the vehicle's computer to verify the VIN, which is prone to errors when done individually. The material of the windshield affects signal penetration, requiring special handling for those with heating wires or metal coatings. Last time I helped a friend install an ETC, improper placement near the rain sensor caused the automatic wipers to malfunction. Currently, banks offer 100 yuan in toll credits for ETC applications, with free devices and professional debugging, making it a better deal than online purchases.