What is the correct installation position for ETC?
3 Answers
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 lower middle part. The appropriate installation position should be at a height no less 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, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, meaning electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner must provide original and photocopied versions of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is handled by a proxy, the proxy'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. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is needed, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged between 18 and 60. Here are some important considerations for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's view; the best position is behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a significant rearward tilt, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can help avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag requires power but generally does not need charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The adhesive in the middle has an anti-tamper rod connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-tamper rod in. If the tag is removed, the rod will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In such cases, you will need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This feature is designed to prevent 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 from the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at a speed of 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failed fee deductions due to unreadable device information. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause fee deduction failures.
As a frequent highway driver, I've found that the correct installation position for the ETC device is quite particular—it can't be placed just anywhere. Generally, it should be installed on the inside of the windshield, preferably in the area above or to the sides of the rearview mirror. This location is chosen because it doesn't obstruct my driving view, ensuring I can clearly see road signs and pedestrians, while also allowing the toll station's antenna to smoothly read the signal. Placing it too low or too high isn't ideal, especially if the windshield has tint or dirt, which can interfere with the signal. Remember to clean the glass thoroughly to remove dust before pressing the device firmly to ensure the adhesive sticks securely. If installed incorrectly, it might fail to read at toll gates, causing unnecessary delays—so it's worth taking a few extra minutes to carefully follow the manual's guidance on placement. Additionally, improper long-term positioning can lead to device overheating, causing the battery to drain prematurely. I always test the signal strength after installation for peace of mind.
As an ordinary office worker, I commute by car on the highway every day. When installing the ETC device, I tried several positions before finding the right one. The best spot is above the windshield, near the right side of the rearview mirror. This way, the device remains unaffected when I get in and out of the car or during rainy weather, ensuring stable signal transmission. The first time I installed it too low, which caused no response at the toll gate and led to traffic congestion. Later, moving it higher made things much easier. The installation process is simple: first, clean the glass surface thoroughly, then stick the device on and press firmly to ensure it doesn’t loosen. Remember not to place it near areas with metal coatings or dark-tinted film, as this can interfere with the signal and cause errors. By the way, ETC is convenient and saves queuing time, but it only truly saves effort when installed in the correct position. A good position also helps avoid battery issues, as proper ventilation makes the device more durable.
