What is the optimal installation position for ETC?

[LaJack]

The ETC installation position for small cars is generally in the upper middle section of the front windshield horizontally, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it should be installed in the lower middle section. 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 factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave skylight 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 registration certificate. If the application is handled by a non-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 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. 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 windshields with a large rearward tilt angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC is installed without considering this, it may increase the driver's blind spot. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side 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 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 button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-tamper lever in. If the tag is removed arbitrarily, the lever 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 mechanism 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 ahead to avoid automatic toll deduction for the wrong vehicle. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and subsequent toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.

[Ora]

Having driven for over a decade, I know there's an art to ETC installation positioning. The optimal spot is the center of the front windshield, near the rearview mirror—slightly above the driver's direct line of sight. That's where mine is installed, and here's why: First, signal reception is rock-solid; the device responds instantly at toll gates without any delay. Second, it doesn't obstruct my view—clear visibility means safety first. Some folks stick it on side windows for convenience but end up with spotty signals and manual handling, wasting time and effort. Before installation, remember to clean and dry the glass thoroughly, then press firmly for a few minutes to ensure adhesion. In summer heat, adhesive may loosen, but this spot avoids direct sunlight. Get the position right, and it's a one-time effort that saves time. PS: slight adjustments might be needed for different car models, but the core principle remains.

[DeTanner]

As a tech enthusiast, I've done some research on ETC. The optimal installation spot is the upper middle part of the windshield, right next to the rearview mirror. Here's why: the windshield material allows ETC signals to pass through, while metal frames or sunshade films can block or interfere with the signals. Placing it in the middle avoids these issues. Stronger signals mean faster device response and higher passing efficiency. Tests show that just a 10 cm offset can cut the signal strength by half. Just press it gently during installation, avoiding spots that are too low or cluttered. In practice, a good position can extend the device's lifespan and reduce malfunctions. Stick it here, and you'll have smooth passage all year round.

[LouisRose]

I've replaced the ETC devices on several cars, and my experience is that the best spot is near the rearview mirror in the middle of the windshield. If it's placed too high, it blocks the view; if too low, the signal is poor and it obstructs the road. The steps are simple: dry the glass, firmly stick the device, align it with the road to ensure it's not tilted. After installation, just drive straight through the toll booth—it senses quickly and saves time. If placed incorrectly, fixing it is troublesome, and the adhesive might come off. Keeping it at the center point ensures everything works smoothly.