Where is the ETC installed on the windshield?
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 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 and 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect microwave communication signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopied valid ID and vehicle registration documents. If applying through an agent, the agent's valid ID is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration document should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual aged between 18 and 60. Here are some considerations for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the driver's view. The best position is behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a steep incline, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can help avoid obstructing the view. Avoid affecting charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Do not remove the device once installed: The adhesive backing has an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. Once the ETC tag is installed, the windshield presses the lever in. If removed, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the device and requiring an ETC service center to unlock it. This feature prevents 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 faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at speeds up to 20 km/h. Driving too fast may result in failed toll deductions. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause deduction failures.
When I first bought my car, I researched this. The ETC device is usually stuck on the upper center of the windshield's interior, near the rearview mirror area. Personally, I placed mine slightly to the right of the center to avoid blocking the driver's view. Veteran drivers advise against placing it where the windshield wipers can reach, as heavy rain or dirt buildup can cause poor ETC signal reception, leading to toll stations failing to recognize the vehicle and forcing you to stop and pay in cash—which is both time-consuming and frustrating. I remember a friend who installed it on the side and kept failing to get recognized at highway exits, wasting time in line and even getting scolded. They later moved it to the center, and the problem was solved. When installing, make sure to use the provided double-sided tape to secure it firmly and avoid moving it around. A higher position ensures better visibility and safer driving. I also take care to avoid that area when cleaning the windshield to prevent dust buildup from affecting its functionality. Developing good habits can save you from a lot of fines.
