Where is the ETC generally 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 and lower part. The suitable installation position should be at a height not lower than 1.2 meters and not higher than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 and 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC is the abbreviation for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is handled by a non-owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. 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 an individual aged between 18 and 60. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's 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 on the right side behind the rearview mirror 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 for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If the tag is removed arbitrarily, 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 deduction for the preceding vehicle. The recognition speed for ETC lanes is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.
When it comes to installing an ETC device in your car, the most commonly recommended spot is on the upper inner side of the windshield, right near the rearview mirror area. Why is this the best location? First, it ensures excellent signal reception, allowing the toll station antenna to scan it directly for automatic fee deduction—hassle-free. Second, it doesn’t obstruct your view, as the high position won’t interfere with road visibility. As someone who’s driven for years, I’ve never found it distracting. Just use strong double-sided adhesive during installation, and make sure to clean the glass to prevent slipping. If you pick the wrong spot—like the side window or dashboard—you might face poor signal reception, leading to failed toll payments and manual handling, which wastes time and adds frustration. I’ve seen beginners install it slightly off, forcing them to slow down at every toll gate—quite inconvenient. The right position makes passing through smoother and safer. Also, if your windshield has metallic tint, avoid the tinted area or opt for a dedicated spot to prevent signal blockage. In short, proper placement is simple but crucial for daily convenience.
