Where is the ETC device installed?
2 Answers
The ETC installation position 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 middle-lower part. The appropriate installation position should be at a height no less 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 explosion-proof film, which may affect microwave communication signal transmission, the device should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of valid ID and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is handled by a proxy, the proxy's valid ID is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal. 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 some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large rearward tilt angle, 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 behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with 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 on the windshield, the anti-removal lever will be pressed in. If the tag is removed casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In such cases, you will need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism 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 ahead to avoid automatic toll payment 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 device information and thus failed toll deduction. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.
When I installed my ETC, I did some research on the placement. It's generally recommended to stick it on the upper central area of the windshield's inner surface, near the rearview mirror where those small black dots are. Why this spot? Because it minimizes signal blockage, ensuring smooth signal reception at toll stations. Don't underestimate this placement—getting it wrong might lead to incorrect charges or the gate not opening. My first attempt was sticking it in a corner with heating wires, which caused constant signal drops. After repositioning, everything worked fine. Before installation, remember to clean and dry the glass surface. Once installed, avoid moving it around—most ETC devices have anti-tamper features that lock the device if moved, requiring reactivation, which is a hassle. In short, prioritize the central high position—it won't obstruct your view while driving and saves you trouble.
