Where is the ETC card placed?

[MiguelRose]

The ETC card is inserted into the ETC device. 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 suitable installation position should be no lower than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 and 90 degrees. If the vehicle has anti-explosion film or it is applied later, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the device should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, which means 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 handled by a proxy, the proxy'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 linked to the owner's name for deducting highway tolls is also required, and the owner must be between 18 and 60 years old. 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 tilt 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 spot. Installing it on the right side behind the rearview mirror can avoid obstructing 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, 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-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-tamper lever in. If the device is removed casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering 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 the following: The ETC transaction sensing range 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 toll deduction for the wrong vehicle. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.

[JeremiahRose]

Speaking of the ETC card's placement, as a long-time car owner, it is usually inserted into the OBU device, which is then affixed to the area near the rearview mirror on the inside of the windshield. When I installed mine, I chose a spot above the driver's side—it doesn't obstruct the view and ensures smooth signal reading by toll station sensors. Incorrect placement, such as positioning it too high or where there's metallic film interference, may lead to fee deduction errors or delays in passing through, wasting travel time. That's why I always recommend cleaning the glass surface before installation and ensuring the OBU is firmly attached without wobbling. Regularly checking the battery life and whether the card is loose is also important. Proper placement can effectively improve passage efficiency, making highway travel more worry-free and safer.

[SimonLee]

From my experience, simply insert the ETC card directly into the OBU small box, which is mounted on the corner of the windshield, usually near the left or right side of the rearview mirror. The reason for this placement is straightforward: it ensures broader signal coverage without obstructing the driver's view. During installation, first confirm that the card is activated and the box is securely attached, ensuring it's not misaligned—otherwise, temperature extremes might loosen the adhesive, causing the device to fall off. If the toll booth doesn't respond, it might be due to a shifted position or signal blockage; just check and reposition it. Proper placement saves time and avoids penalty hassles.

[SanLaila]

I place my ETC card in the small device on the windshield while driving, usually choosing a spot behind the rearview mirror. This placement is very convenient, allowing for quick and smooth passage through toll stations. Once, I carelessly positioned it crookedly, which resulted in the toll station failing to detect it and incorrectly deducting fees. Later, after adjusting it properly, things improved significantly. So the key is to ensure it doesn’t obstruct the view and is positioned close to the front of the car. Try installing it yourself—it’s quite simple.