What is the suitable position for ETC installation?
4 Answers
The ETC device is generally installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield for passenger cars, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle part. The suitable installation position should be at a height of 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 signal transmission, the device should be installed in the microwave window area. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for an ETC device, 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 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 under the owner's name (aged between 18 and 60) is needed for deducting highway tolls. For company-owned vehicles, the required documents include: 1. A letter of introduction from the vehicle owner (with company seal); 2. A photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with company seal); 3. The original ID card of the proxy; 4. The original vehicle registration certificate; 5. The vehicle for which the ETC is to be installed. Here are some important considerations for ETC installation: 1. Do not obstruct the driver's view. The best position is behind the rearview mirror. Many vehicles have a steeply angled windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC device without considering this may increase blind spots. Installing it on the right side behind the rearview mirror can help avoid obstructing the view. 2. Ensure it does not interfere with charging. The ETC device consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the blackened areas of the windshield or positions that may block the solar panel. 3. Do not remove the device once installed. The adhesive backing contains an anti-tamper switch. Once installed, the windshield presses this switch in. If the device is removed, the switch will pop out and lock the device, rendering it unusable. Unlocking it will require a visit to an ETC service center. This feature prevents multiple vehicles from sharing a single device.
Mounting the ETC at the top of the windshield is the most hassle-free option. I prefer sticking it on the right side of the rearview mirror near the passenger seat. This placement doesn't obstruct the view at all—you won't even catch a glimpse of it in your peripheral vision while driving. Remember to avoid the black dotted areas; otherwise, the solar panel won't charge properly. Clean the glass with alcohol before sticking it, or it might fall off in summer heat. Mine has stayed put for three years without issues, and it triggers instant recognition at toll booths. If mounted too low, parking lot barriers often fail to detect it, forcing you to manually swipe the card—super annoying. Choose the right spot, and it'll last for years.
It is most reliable to install the ETC device right in the center of the upper part of the windshield, directly behind the rearview mirror. This area is unaffected by window tinting, and even metallic reflective films won't interfere with the signal. I've personally tested it - this position provides the fastest response at toll stations. Note that the device must not be installed upside down - the small sun icon should face upward, otherwise solar charging will be affected. It's best to install it right after getting new license plates to avoid repeated adhesion issues. If positioned correctly, you won't even need to roll down your window on the highway.
The preferred location for ETC is behind the rearview mirror, where it doesn't obstruct the view on either side. I've seen people stick it on the dashboard, but the high temperature in summer can easily damage the battery. The top left corner of the windshield is also a good spot, though inserting the card with the right hand can be a bit awkward. The key is to avoid the airbag deployment area, which is usually marked in the manual. A friend placed it too close to the edge, where the metal window frame blocked the signal, causing frequent read failures at ETC lanes. After installation, don't rush onto the highway; test it at a manual toll booth first to ensure proper fee deduction.
