What is the correct installation position for ETC devices?
4 Answers
For small cars, the ETC device is generally installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle part. The appropriate installation position should be at a height of no less than 1.2 meters and no more than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with anti-explosion film or those that have been retrofitted with anti-explosion film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the device should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is handled by a proxy, the proxy's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license 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. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply inclined windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, 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 because it has a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and 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 below. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If the tag is removed casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In this case, you will need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This 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 prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle in front to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the toll of the vehicle in front. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle device information and thus failed toll deduction. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also lead to failed toll deduction.
I think the placement of the ETC device is crucial. From my daily driving experience, it must be installed in the top central area of the front windshield, preferably near the blank space behind the rearview mirror. I've tried sticking it elsewhere, like on the side or the dashboard, but the signal reception was unstable, often causing failures at ETC toll booths. Professionals recommend placing it 1 to 2 centimeters away from the edge of the windshield, ensuring it doesn't obstruct the driver's view to avoid accidents. During installation, it's essential to clean the glass surface with alcohol wipes first to remove dust and grease, ensuring a firm bond. If installed incorrectly, the device may fall off over time. I suggest checking the installation guide or asking professionals at the 4S store for help to avoid unnecessary issues. This little tip has kept my ETC device working perfectly for three to four years without replacement.
I've been researching the optimal placement for car devices, and the ETC is best installed in the upper middle part of the windshield, especially in that small space behind the rearview mirror, as it requires good signal reception. Why is this recommended? Choosing the wrong location can cause significant signal interference, potentially leading to system delays at toll booths—I've personally experienced erroneous charges due to this before. The specific height should be about 5-10 cm below the top edge of the windshield, avoiding areas too close to the A-pillar or wiper zones to prevent obstructing the driver's view. Additionally, note that the device has a solar charging panel on its back; placing it in a shaded area will affect charging efficiency. I recommend testing the position before installation using a mobile app to check signal strength—a simple test can save a lot of hassle. Regularly cleaning the adhesive area is another handy tip. These small details significantly enhance the device's performance.
When I first bought my car last year, I had no idea where to place the ETC device. After some random attempts, I found the correct position is at the top center or right side of the windshield, preferably near the rearview mirror. Initially, I placed it on the dashboard, but it kept failing at toll booths, causing delays and embarrassment. Later, I read the manual which emphasized that the windshield position ensures proper signal reception and solar charging. Now it works perfectly without any issues. Simply put, the placement should not obstruct your view, with the device facing upwards. If you're unsure, just ask at a car service center instead of experimenting like I did.
