How to Install ETC on a Private Car?

[LeLillian]

ETC can be processed at bank branches or highway service areas. After installing the ETC device at the service point, professional staff will assist with the installation. Required documents include the vehicle owner's valid ID card and the original and photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not processed by the owner, the agent must also provide their valid ID card. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a Postal Savings credit card application form is required, as the credit card will be used to bind the ETC card. After receiving the credit card, swipe it twice and present the POS slip to claim and install the ETC onboard device for free at designated Postal Savings branches, with no additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own the vehicle in their name. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, meaning electronic toll system. Below are some considerations for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have steeply angled windshields, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Installing it on the right side behind the rearview mirror 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 on the back for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or 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 lever in. If removed, the lever will pop out, triggering the switch and locking the electronic tag, rendering it unusable. You will then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism prevents multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note the following: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid paying for the vehicle in front due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at speeds up to 20 km/h; exceeding this speed may result in failed transactions due to unreadable device information. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause transaction failure.

[FernandoFitz]

Just finished installing the ETC for my car, and the process was actually quite simple. First, I applied through the WeChat ETC Assistant mini-program, selected the device type, filled in the information, and uploaded photos of my vehicle license. The device arrived two days after approval. Opening the package, I found a small box and an instruction manual. I located the black area behind the rearview mirror on the windshield, thoroughly cleaned the glass surface with an alcohol wipe, peeled off the double-sided adhesive protective film on the back of the ETC device, and firmly pressed it into place for 30 seconds to ensure it stuck well. Then, I inserted the card to activate it, and a beep sound indicated success. I specifically went to a nearby toll station to test it, and the barrier lifted really high as I passed. I recommend choosing the solar-powered version to avoid worrying about charging. Make sure the installation position doesn’t block your driving view, and don’t tamper with it, as you’ll need to reactivate it, which is a huge hassle.

[DeNora]

I'm quite familiar with installing ETC. First, decide whether to go through a bank or online channels. Many banks now offer free device promotions—I just drove to a branch with my ID card, and the staff activated the device in five minutes. Key point: choose the installation spot carefully. The ideal location is the upper middle area of the front windshield, specifically to the right of the rearview mirror. This ensures both clear visibility and strong signal reception. Before sticking it on, wipe the glass clean with a dry cloth—grease residue can weaken adhesion. Press firmly for about 10 seconds after applying, and it'll stay put. A flashing red light during card activation means success. I recommend testing it immediately at the nearest ETC lane to avoid gate issues later. Remember to keep the card slot facing outward and occasionally check if the device has loosened.

[Johnson]

Installing an ETC for a sedan involves three steps: application, installation, and testing. First, search for ETC services on Alipay and follow the prompts to upload your ID card and vehicle license. The device will arrive in two days. The installation location is crucial—the black area behind the rearview mirror is ideal. Avoid sticking it on the transparent part of the windshield, as it may affect solar charging. Before peeling off the adhesive, clean the glass with a wet wipe to prevent it from falling off. Once firmly attached, insert the card immediately to activate it, and you’ll hear a confirmation sound. Finally, drive to the highway entrance and use the dedicated lane to test the sensitivity. Reduce your speed to around 20 km/h when about five meters from the toll gate for the most stable detection. If the device falls off, you’ll need to visit a service center to reactivate it. Also, avoid frequently inserting or removing the ETC card.