Where is the best position to install ETC?

[RicardoMarie]

For small cars, the ETC device is generally installed 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 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 anti-explosion film or those that have it installed later, 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, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID 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 needed, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual's name aged between 18 to 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 a large inclination angle of the windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the right side of the rearview mirror 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. Do not remove it randomly once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If the tag is removed randomly, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and making it unusable. You will then need to visit 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 car in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the car in front to avoid automatic sensing and paying for the car ahead. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may prevent the vehicle device information from being read, leading to payment failure. When using a debit card bound to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause payment failure.

[ElizabethFitz]

When installing the ETC device, I highly recommend placing it in the top center area of the front windshield, about a fist's distance behind the rearview mirror. This ensures optimal signal reception without obstruction from the vehicle's structure or metal parts, especially for quick response at highway toll booths. Be sure to avoid the wiper area and the driver's line of sight, otherwise the signal may weaken on rainy days or block your driving view, which is too dangerous. After years of personal use, I've never experienced misreads or disconnections in this position—it's very reliable. Remember to secure it firmly with the original adhesive during installation; don't cut corners to avoid loosening on bumpy roads. Regularly check for adhesive aging to ensure long-term device performance.

[LeJanelle]

I think installing the ETC on the upper left or right corner of the windshield is fine, as long as it's in the central area of the upper half. The position should be close to the rearview mirror for more stable signal performance, preventing toll system reading failures due to the vehicle's angle. The advantage is that it's convenient to observe the device's indicator lights while driving, allowing you to check the battery or status at a glance without bending over. Additionally, for aesthetic reasons, choose a clean and flat spot to stick it, ensuring it doesn’t block any sensors like the rain sensor, which could affect vehicle functions. After installation, every time I drive on the highway, it works smoothly. A higher position also reduces dust accumulation, making cleaning easier. I recommend wiping the glass surface with a damp cloth before installation to prevent dust from affecting adhesion and prolong its lifespan.

[AdelineMarie]

When installing the ETC device, it's best to place it in the upper center of the windshield, not too close to the edge. Choosing the wrong position, such as near the metal edge of the A-pillar or below the dashboard, can result in poor signal, leading to repeated scanning failures at toll stations, which is both troublesome and costly. The angle should ensure that the device's front faces the direction of the car's front, so the induction antenna aligns with the toll collection device. I also advise avoiding direct sunlight spots, as strong heat can easily damage electronic components. After securing it firmly, test it several times on the highway to confirm everything works properly before finalizing the installation. This setup is simple and practical, avoiding common issues like signal loss or device loosening.

[GabrielLynn]

When choosing an ETC placement, I prefer the centered position at the top of the windshield. It suits various vehicle types: compact cars benefit from unobstructed space here, while SUVs maintain strong signal reception at the higher position. The key is avoiding driver sightline obstruction or wiper system interference. Clean dust before installation to ensure adhesive bonding, which provides moisture and shock resistance for long-term stability. If suboptimal positioning causes toll collection issues, simply adjust the angle promptly.