What to Do If the ETC is Incorrectly Installed?
2 Answers
ETC installation can be repositioned if incorrectly placed. The suitable installation positions for ETC are: For small vehicles such as cars and minivans, the ETC card and OBU device should be installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, the installation position is in the middle lower part. ETC installation requirements: the height should not be less than 1.2 meters or more than 2.5 meters; the installation angle N should be between 30º and 90º (the angle between the surface of the electronic tag and the horizontal plane). The installation process for the ETC device is as follows: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU; the red light will briefly light up, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" or "Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield to ensure the surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then peel off the adhesive backing of the OBU and attach it to the installation position. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield, ensuring the chip is inserted into the OBU device.
I was quite nervous when I first encountered this issue. Previously, I accidentally installed my ETC device on the dotted black area of the windshield, which caused frequent signal interruptions during highway toll passages. Several times, I embarrassingly had to switch to manual lanes at toll booths. Later, I learned a practical trick: first, use a household hairdryer on low heat to warm and soften the adhesive part, then gently lift the device with the edge of a credit card. Remember to clean the glass surface thoroughly with alcohol wipes to ensure no dust or oil residue. Choose a new spot at the top center of the windshield, preferably avoiding areas with sun film or metal wires, to ensure stable signal reception. If adhesive residue is stubborn, a bit of adhesive remover spray will do the trick. Test the device after reinstallation to ensure it responds well at toll stations. I recommend checking the manual carefully for proper positioning during the first installation to avoid trouble. If the device gets damaged during removal, don't worry—just visit any ETC service point for a free base replacement. I know this well from personal experience.
