Is it mandatory to install ETC on the windshield?
1 Answers
ETC can be used without being attached to the glass. Installing ETC on the upper part of the windshield is to minimize obstruction of the driver's view while ensuring better recognition by the equipment at highway toll stations. If you prefer not to install it on the glass, place it in an open area where it can be seen through the windshield. For small vehicles, the ETC is generally installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle part. The suitable installation height is between 1.2 meters and 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 to 90 degrees. If the vehicle has or will have a blast-resistant film, which may interfere with microwave signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window strip. Here are some considerations for ETC installation: Avoid obstructing the view—best installed behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a steep incline, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Placing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side helps avoid blocking the view. Ensure unobstructed 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 windshield's blacked-out areas or positions that might block the solar panel. Do not remove it once installed: The adhesive backing has an anti-tamper button connected to a switch. Once installed, the windshield presses this button in. If removed, the button pops out, triggering the switch and locking the tag, rendering it unusable until unlocked at an ETC service point. This mechanism prevents multiple vehicles from sharing one device. ETC usage tips: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid paying for the vehicle ahead due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of over 10 meters. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h—exceeding this may result in failed transactions. If using a debit card-linked ETC, insufficient balance will cause transaction failures.
