Where are ETC devices usually installed in the car?
4 Answers
The installation position of ETC for small cars is generally 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 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 built-in or later-installed anti-explosion film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave skylight band. ETC is the abbreviation of 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 not made by the owner themselves, the agent'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. For units or companies, an organization code certificate (or business license) and official seal are required. Here are the precautions for installing ETC: Do not block the view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a large inclination angle of the windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered when installing ETC, it will increase the driver's blind spot. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid blocking the view. Do not affect charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power, but generally does not need to be charged or have its battery replaced because it has a solar panel on the back that can charge itself. Therefore, when installing, avoid the black areas on the windshield and do not place it where it 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 making it unusable. You will then need to go to an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note that: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, keep a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle in front to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the vehicle in front. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. If the speed is too fast, the vehicle device information cannot be read, leading to payment failure. When using a debit card bound to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause payment failure.
When I installed the ETC, I specifically asked the staff, and they recommended placing it on the upper middle part of the front windshield, slightly behind the rearview mirror towards the passenger side. This position doesn’t obstruct my view, ensures sufficient sunlight for solar charging, and provides stable signal reception when passing through highways. My own car has had it stuck for over two years without falling off. The key is to thoroughly clean the glass surface first and then wipe it with an alcohol pad to remove any oil film. Remember to avoid the edges of the black grid area, as exposure to summer heat can cause the adhesive to loosen. After selecting the position, press firmly for thirty seconds, and it’s best to wait a day before using the ETC.
I often drive long distances and have replaced the ETC devices on three cars. They are usually stuck about ten centimeters to the right of the rearview mirror on the windshield, roughly five centimeters from the edge of the roof. This area has the most sensitive signal and makes it easy to reach in and remove the card. Last time, when helping a friend install his, I noticed he placed it too close to the A-pillar, which caused frequent scanning failures due to interference from the dashcam. It was only resolved after moving it directly behind the rearview mirror. Before installation, I recommend using your phone's flashlight to check the windshield to avoid dark areas with metal coatings, as they can block the ETC signal.
My ETC always malfunctioned before, and I later realized it was installed in the wrong position. Now it's stuck at the top center of the windshield, two fingers' width directly behind the rearview mirror. This spot is in the driver's blind spot, doesn't obstruct the view, and the black ceramic dot area enhances adhesion. I specifically tested it: the signal is strongest in the upper third of the windshield. If it's too close to the wiper position, the hood can block the signal. When installing, remember to snap the button on the back of the OBU device into the holder—you should hear a click to ensure it's securely installed. The solar panel of the device should face outward at an angle of about 15 degrees to ensure optimal light exposure efficiency.
