Where is the ETC installed on the front windshield?
4 Answers
The installation position of the 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 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 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, it should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for an ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page stamped with the latest annual inspection. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required, 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 driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply angled 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 on the right side behind the rearview mirror can help avoid obstructing 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 for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Do not remove it arbitrarily once installed: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-removal lever connected to a switch. After installation, 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. You will then 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 avoid paying for the vehicle in front due to its ETC device malfunction, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour. Driving too fast may result in failed fee deductions due to the inability to read the vehicle's device information. If a debit card is linked to the ETC, insufficient balance may also cause fee deduction failures.
When installing an ETC device, the optimal position is usually at the top center area of the front windshield, near the rearview mirror. As an ordinary car owner who installed it myself last year, I chose that spot because it doesn’t obstruct the view at all—safety comes first while driving. The signal reception is excellent, with fast and accurate automatic detection at toll stations. The installation is simple: first clean the glass surface with a damp cloth to remove dust, let it dry completely, then firmly attach the device. Avoid placing it over black dotted areas—those are defroster coatings that may interfere with the signal. Also, don’t position it too close to the edges, or you might face toll payment failures and have to redo it. A quick tip: my neighbor initially installed his lower down and kept getting stuck at toll booths until I helped him move it higher. In short, the central position is the most reliable, ensuring the device stays secure and doesn’t shake loose, making daily driving hassle-free. Just check periodically to ensure it’s firmly in place—it only takes a few minutes.
For ETC installation on the windshield, the optimal position is right at the top center, near the rearview mirror area. As an avid DIY enthusiast, I've tested several spots during self-installation, and this location delivers the strongest signal for quick toll booth antenna detection. Cleaning the glass thoroughly before installation is crucial—avoid alcohol-based cleaners to prevent residue. After ensuring a bubble-free adhesion, power it on to test sensitivity. Improper placement can be frustrating; I once positioned it too far to the side, triggering frequent error beeps at toll gates until readjustment. This spot also avoids interference with rain sensors and cameras on the windshield, combining safety and practicality. Beginners are advised to temporarily secure it with double-sided tape for a trial run of a few days before permanent fixation to confirm ideal performance. Correct placement extends device lifespan, whereas wrong spots accelerate aging. Though the process requires attention, it's rewarding—DIY saves both money and time.
Safe driving is paramount, so the ETC should be placed high on the front windshield near the center, ideally close to the rearview mirror. Personally, I prioritize unobstructed visibility while driving and always position it there to ensure bright, clear sightlines. Placing it too low can be distracting, especially in rainy or foggy conditions, potentially leading to accidents. Installation is simple: clean the area, firmly attach the device, and test for smooth toll collection. If the signal weakens, adjust immediately to avoid mid-road malfunctions that could cause rear-end collisions. Remember to avoid the black dots on the windshield to maintain stable signal reception.
