What is the ETC installation method?
2 Answers
ETC installation method: Sensor installation. ETC devices are uniformly installed on the front windshield inside the car, next to the center rearview mirror. They come with plastic suction cups to attach to the windshield. Choose an installation location that does not obstruct the front view while driving. Sensor wiring installation. Plug the sensor's wiring harness connector into the sensor's connection port. The wiring harness is connected through the vehicle's internal network, branching out from the car's intelligent information system. Wrap the wiring harness along the interior roof trim panel without removing the interior trim—simply press it into place by hand to effectively conceal the wiring. Insert the card into the ETC sensor. Gently insert the side of the card with the chip facing forward into the ETC sensor's card slot. The sensor detects the chip and reads the express card. If the card is inserted correctly, the sensor's display will light up after detecting the ETC express card, showing the message "Start billing," indicating a successful connection between the sensor and the express card. ETC working principle: Through dedicated short-range communication between the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the toll station's ETC lane, computer networking technology is used for backend settlement processing with the bank. This allows vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while still paying the required fees.
Installing an ETC device is actually quite simple, and I’ve done it a few times with my own insights. First step, get the device—usually provided for free by the bank—and don’t rush to unbox it. Clean the inside area of the windshield, especially near the rearview mirror, using alcohol wipes to remove dust and grease for a firmer adhesion. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive side of the device and press it firmly in place, ensuring it’s centered and doesn’t obstruct your view. Second step, connect the power cable—most plug into the OBD port (that small socket under the steering wheel) or use a cigarette lighter adapter. The device will light up and activate automatically after starting the car. Third step, activate and link your bank card, which requires scanning a QR code or using an app, and sometimes a visit to the bank for confirmation. Test it by passing through an ETC lane—if it works, the green light will show. After installation, check the adhesion every three months to avoid issues on the highway—I’ve seen a friend’s device fall off due to poor adhesion, requiring a redo. The whole process takes less than half an hour, and you can do it yourself to save time and hassle.
