What is the best installation location for ETC?
3 Answers
The ETC installation position for cars is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield horizontally, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it should be installed in the upper part. The appropriate 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 microwave communication signal transmission, it should be installed in the microwave sunroof area. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not processed by the owner personally, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal. A bank card for deducting highway tolls is also needed, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual aged between 18 and 60. Required documents for official vehicles: Introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); Photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); Original ID card of the agent; Original vehicle license; The vehicle that needs ETC service. Here are some considerations for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the view. It's best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large backward tilt angle, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If ETC is installed without considering this, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid obstructing the view. Do not affect charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or 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 installation, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If removed casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You would then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. Precautions for using ETC:
I installed the ETC device at the very top center of the windshield, right below the rearview mirror, which is the most ideal location. During installation, I repeatedly tested it and found that this position offers the best signal reception strength. Every time I pass through a toll station, it works seamlessly without any lag. Why not choose other positions? For example, placing it lower or to the side—but a lower position would obstruct the driver's view, especially during turns when visibility of the left and right lanes is crucial, increasing the risk of accidents. Installing it on the side sometimes results in unstable signals, possibly due to variations in glass thickness or coatings. Additionally, it’s important to avoid areas with sunshade films or metallic coatings, as they can block signals and render the device ineffective. After installation, I regularly check the adhesive for any looseness and clean the glass to ensure the device remains firmly attached with the original adhesive. Overall, this location ensures both safe driving visibility and efficient toll passage, making it the smart choice based on my practical experience.
Safety is my top priority, and the ETC installation location must not be taken lightly. The optimal position is slightly to the left or right of the upper center of the windshield, ensuring it does not obstruct the driver's view. A position too low, such as above the dashboard, can block the road view, causing distractions and potential accidents during high-speed driving. In terms of signal reception, the central top position optimizes interaction between the device and toll station antennas, avoiding traffic congestion risks due to poor signal detection. Incorrect options include areas covered by metal film, as their shielding effect can render the ETC ineffective. When installing, clean the glass thoroughly and apply strong adhesive to prevent shaking. Regularly check the adhesive's firmness to avoid detachment, as this small detail directly impacts driving safety and efficiency.