Does ETC have to be installed on the windshield?
2 Answers
ETC can be used without being attached 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 the equipment at highway toll stations. 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. The installation position for ETC in small cars is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is in the middle lower 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 the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. Here are the precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it's best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large tilt angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC is installed without considering this, it can increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement because it has a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it casually: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If it is removed casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You will then need to go to an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. Notes for using ETC: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle in front to avoid automatic payment for the vehicle ahead. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. 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 will also cause payment failure.
As a seasoned driver, I've seen many friends ask similar questions. ETC devices are usually recommended to be installed on the windshield because that location is high, has good signal reception, and facilitates wireless communication with highway toll stations. Placing it elsewhere, such as on the dashboard or center console, might theoretically work but could block the signal, leading to failed toll deductions or a dead battery—since the device relies on solar charging, direct sunlight on the glass ensures efficient charging. From my experience, when installing, use the dedicated adhesive to secure it firmly, just make sure it doesn't obstruct your view. If you try other spots and frequently encounter issues, it's better to stick to the standard windshield placement. Remembering this can save a lot of hassle, like avoiding getting stuck at toll gates mid-journey. Safety comes first—ensuring your view isn't blocked while driving also makes the device more durable. In short, based on my years of driving experience, sticking to this position is the most reliable—don't cut corners by placing it elsewhere.
