Where is the car ETC installed?
2 Answers
The installation position of the car ETC is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, the installation position is in the middle and lower part. The appropriate installation position is at a height of no less than 1.2 meters and no more than 2.5 meters, and the installation angle should be between 30 and 90 degrees. For vehicles with anti-explosion film or those that have been retrofitted with anti-explosion film, it will affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, so it should be installed in the microwave skylight band. ETC is the abbreviation of Electronic-Toll-Collection, which means electronic toll collection system. To apply for it, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If it is not the owner who applies, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license needs to 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. 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 results in a smaller driver's field of vision. If this is not taken into account when installing ETC, it will increase the driver's blind spot. Install it behind the rearview mirror on the right side to 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 area on the windshield and do not install it in a position where the solar panel is easily blocked. Once installed, do not remove it at will: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal guide rod, which is connected to a switch below. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal guide rod in. If it is removed at will, the anti-removal guide rod will pop out and trigger the switch, and the electronic tag will be locked and cannot be used. You will need to go to the 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 area 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 of the ETC lane is 20 kilometers per hour. If the speed is too fast, the vehicle device information cannot be read, which will lead to failure of deduction. When using a debit card to bind ETC, insufficient balance will also lead to failure of deduction.
I've been driving for ten years, and the placement of the ETC device is quite particular. It's generally recommended to install it on the inner side of the windshield, right in the middle near the rearview mirror. This ensures the best signal reception without obstructing the view or affecting driving. That's exactly how I installed it in my own car, and every time I pass through a toll station, it's a quick and seamless process—super convenient. If installed in the wrong spot, like the corner of the windshield or areas covered with metallic film, the signal might become unstable, causing the ETC to malfunction. It's best to have a professional handle the installation; they use special adhesive to secure it firmly and prevent it from falling off. Also, remember to avoid placing it over the heating wire area, as it can impair visibility and damage the device. In summary, the correct placement enhances travel efficiency, saves time, and ensures safety.