Where is the ETC installed in the car?
2 Answers
The installation position of ETC 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 to lower 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 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with anti-explosion film or those that have been retrofitted with anti-explosion film, it may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, so it 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, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card 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 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 can reduce the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered when installing ETC, it will increase the driver's blind spot. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can avoid blocking the view. Do not affect 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 do not install it in a position 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, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If it 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 go to 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 payment for the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to failed toll deduction. When using a debit card bound to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction failure.
I've installed an ETC device in my own car before. That little box is usually attached to the inside of the windshield, positioned near the driver's side above, right in a corner next to the rearview mirror. Many people ask me why it has to be placed there – it's actually because the signal reception needs to be unobstructed. Positioning it near the top of the window avoids blocking the driver's view and doesn't interfere with the airbag's operation. Before installation, make sure to clean the glass surface thoroughly and firmly attach it using the provided double-sided tape. Never move it afterward, or it might fall off. Last time I installed one, I almost chose the wrong spot—placing it above the dashboard nearly blocked the rain sensor. Luckily, a friend reminded me to adjust it. Now, every time I pass through a toll station, it instantly connects with the toll system, saving me a lot of time with its quick response. If you're planning to install one, it's best to follow the manual or seek help from a professional shop to ensure it's done correctly. Regularly check if it's loose or has a weak signal to avoid sudden malfunctions on the highway. Overall, the placement directly affects both convenience and safety in usage.
