Where is the ETC installed in a car?

[MadelineRose]

The ETC is generally installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it is installed on 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 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 stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which is an electronic toll collection system. To apply for an ETC, the vehicle owner must provide their valid ID card and the original and photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate. If the application is made by a proxy, the proxy's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway toll fees is needed, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged between 18 and 60. For company vehicles, the required documents include: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); a photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); the original ID card of the proxy; the original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle that needs to have the ETC installed. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not block the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply inclined windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If the ETC is installed without considering this, it may increase the driver's blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can help 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 blackened 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 on the windshield, the anti-removal lever is pressed 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 payment for the preceding vehicle. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at a speed of 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.

[LydiaDella]

As an ordinary commuter who drives to work, I find the small area at the top of the windshield where the ETC is installed particularly crucial—usually right below the rearview mirror inside the car. The reason for this design is to give the antenna a clear line of sight to capture signals from toll stations, eliminating the need to slow down and pull out a card or scan a code every time I pass through. I remember when it was installed, the technician specifically chose this spot, explaining that there are no metal frames or tint films blocking the signal here, ensuring stable device operation. Since I frequently take the highway for my daily commute, ETC has saved me a lot of queuing time and reduced collision risks. Once fixed in place, it requires no frequent adjustments, and maintenance is simple—just periodically check if the device is loose. If a new driver asks, I’d definitely recommend installing it in the standard position without moving it around randomly. Only when positioned correctly can the device function reliably, significantly improving traffic efficiency.

[VanJason]

When considering car accessories, I noticed that the ETC is typically mounted at the top center of the windshield, right in the area opposite the rearview mirror. This design is quite clever because the antenna needs to radiate signals outward to communicate with roadside receivers. Choosing this installation spot ensures it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view, and the device itself is compact, maintaining the car’s interior aesthetics. I’ve tried the installation process—just clean the glass thoroughly and stick it on with double-sided tape, but make sure the surface is free of grease or dirt to prevent detachment. Positioning it correctly ensures fast response during toll collection, accurate deductions, and avoids errors that could cause unnecessary hassle. For cars with tinted films, excessively thick layers might interfere with the signal, so it’s best to check before installation. In short, placement is crucial—it determines whether the device functions properly. I recommend car owners stick to this standard spot and avoid moving it to the sides or elsewhere. For daily maintenance, simply wiping the glass to keep it clean is sufficient; frequent checks aren’t necessary.

[MorganAnn]

I just got my new car not long ago, and the ETC device is installed at the top center of the windshield, right next to the rearview mirror. I asked the installer, and they said this is the optimal location to ensure unobstructed communication between the device's antenna and the toll station system. Having it positioned this way has made my experience as a new driver very smooth—no manual operation is needed when passing through toll booths, eliminating potential mistakes. Before installation, I was worried it might block my view or be inconvenient to use, but in practice, it doesn’t affect driving at all. Since installation, the device has worked flawlessly, which gives me peace of mind. If you're new to ETC, choosing this spot for installation is definitely reliable. Also, remember not to install it before applying window tint to avoid signal weakening. A simple setup can lead to efficient passage.