Can the ETC device be installed in the black area?
3 Answers
The ETC device cannot be installed in the black area, as the ETC electronic tag requires power, and installing it in the black area will affect the solar reception of the ETC. The placement of the ETC card should be on the front windshield in a position that does not obstruct the driver's view, near the central rearview mirror inside the car. The installation method of the ETC device: 1. The ETC sensor is installed on the front windshield inside the car, and its base is fixed with a small round plastic suction cup on the windshield, ensuring it does not affect the front view of driving; 2. Plug the connector of the sensor's wiring harness into the sensor's connection port, connect the wiring harness through the car's internal network, divert the wiring harness from the car's intelligent information system, and wrap the wiring harness along the car's roof trim; 3. Take out the express card and gently insert the side with the chip into the card slot of the ETC sensor; 4. After the sensor detects the ETC express card, the sensor's display will light up, showing the message 'start accounting'.
I noticed many people are concerned about this issue. When I installed my ETC before, I specifically researched it—the black area refers to those spotted or grid-like sections at the top of the windshield. I genuinely don’t recommend installing it directly on the pure black area, especially the metal-coated parts, as they can block signals. My suggestion is to mount it right along the edge of the black zone, keeping the main device body on the transparent glass. This ensures both solar panel charging efficiency and uninterrupted microwave signals. If you really want to install it on the black dots, make sure they’re non-metallic ceramic dots first. A friend of mine installed his right in the middle of the black grid, and it kept malfunctioning at toll booths—it only worked after repositioning. Before installation, it’s best to check the manual or consult customer service to avoid issues on the highway.
With over a decade of experience in auto repair, I frequently encounter cases where ETC devices are incorrectly positioned. The black grid area may seem discreet, but it severely blocks signals. Metal films make it even worse, akin to mobile signals in an elevator. The optimal installation spot is near the interior rearview mirror—it won't obstruct your view and avoids signal interference zones. I recall a customer whose entire ETC was pressed against a large black dot, resulting in the solar panel failing to charge and toll stations being unable to scan it. Even placing a bank card over it couldn't read the signal. My advice: before installation, feel the area with your hand—avoid any spots with a metallic texture. If unsure about the location, use an ETC tester to scan and prevent future rework.
