Where can ETC be installed?
3 Answers
The ETC installation position is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield for most vehicles, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle part. The appropriate 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 anti-explosion films, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide valid identification and the original and photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid identification is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. A bank card for deducting highway tolls is also required, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged 18 to 60. For company vehicles, the required documents include: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the original ID of the agent; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle that needs to apply for ETC. 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 a large inclination angle of the windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC is installed without considering this, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid obstructing the view. Do not affect 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 that can charge itself. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that 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 it is removed casually, the anti-removal lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and making it unusable. In this case, you 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 the following: The ETC transaction sensing area 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 in front to avoid automatic payment for the vehicle in front. The ETC lane recognition speed 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.
I remember when I installed the ETC for my car, I spent quite some time figuring out the right position. It's usually stuck on the inside of the windshield, in that small area behind the rearview mirror, roughly right in front of the driver's seat. Why choose this spot? Because it has the strongest signal reception, ensuring the antenna isn't blocked by metal frames. I accidentally placed mine too far to the left, which caused signal delays at toll booths, and I had to reposition it. The installation is simple: clean the glass, wait a few seconds for it to stick firmly, and you're done. ETC is incredibly convenient—no need to queue up to pay cash, saving both fuel and time. Just make sure not to obstruct your view or place it on dark tinted films, as this can affect scanning sensitivity. Regularly check if the adhesive is still secure to avoid any hassle during trips.
As a novice who often tinkers with cars, I think the ETC device is best installed at the top center of the front windshield, near the rearview mirror. That spot offers the best signal reception and minimizes interference. Avoid placing it incorrectly, like at the corners of the front window or on the dashboard, as the signal will be terrible. Before installation, make sure the glass is clean and free of grease—just press it gently and it's done. I've also tested different angles and found that a slight tilt actually works better. The advantage of ETC is fast passage and the ability to accumulate points for discounts. After installation, don’t rush to check your balance via a mobile app to avoid conflicts. Also, don’t force it off if the glass is frozen in winter—wait for it to thaw first.
