What is the best position to install the ETC?
2 Answers
The ETC is generally installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield for passenger cars, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed on the lower middle 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 explosion-proof film or those that have it installed later, it may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, so it should be installed in the microwave skylight area. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for it, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is made by someone other than the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway tolls is also needed, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged between 18 and 60. For company vehicles, the required documents are: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the agent's original ID card; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle for which the ETC is to be installed. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large backward tilt angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If the ETC is installed without considering this, it can increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it on the right side behind the rearview mirror 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, when installing, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal rod connected to a switch. Once the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal rod in. If it is removed arbitrarily, the rod 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.
I did quite a bit of research on ETC installation and finally chose the spot behind the rearview mirror. The main advantage is that it doesn't block my view - I can't see it at all while driving, and I still get a full view of the rear window through the mirror. Plus, this area happens to be where those dense black dots are, so the sticker holds extremely firmly without worrying about bumps making it fall off. I've tested it entering and exiting highways, and the signal reception is rock solid. I saw a friend place theirs on the dashboard, but the summer heat melted the adhesive - not only did it fall off, but it also obstructed the view, which was really troublesome. Mine hasn't moved an inch in two years of use, and it doesn't get in the way when washing the car or cleaning the windshield - very hassle-free. The position is directly behind the interior rearview mirror, neither affecting road visibility nor blocking the sensor area.
