Where is the ETC usually installed?

[GrantRose]

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 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 anti-explosion film or those that have been retrofitted with anti-explosion film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave skylight area. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for an ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies 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 stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is 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 obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large rearward tilt angle, 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 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, 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 area 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 wrong vehicle. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information and thus failed toll deduction. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also lead to failed toll deduction.

[Ora]

As a veteran long-haul driver with over a decade of experience, the best position for the ETC device is on the inner top edge of the windshield, right in front near the driver's seat, typically above or in the center area of the rearview mirror. This spot is ideal because it doesn't obstruct the view and ensures good signal reception, allowing you to pass through toll gates instantly. If positioned incorrectly—like on the dotted area of the glass or too low—the signal may be blocked or interfered with by the car roof, causing the ETC to fail. I once misplaced mine and ended up stuck in a half-hour queue at the highway entrance. The position must be stable: clean the glass thoroughly and use strong adhesive to secure it firmly. The ETC relies on solar charging, so a good position can extend its lifespan. While placement varies little between car models, SUVs or taller vehicles should mount it higher for better safety. Once installed, avoid moving it, as a fallen device means reinstallation and wasted travel time. My advice is to have a professional position and install it properly when you get a new car to avoid future hassles.

[McAlexander]

As a tech enthusiast, the ETC device is small but choosing the right location is crucial. I personally tested placing it at the top center of the windshield, as that spot offers the best signal reception with wide coverage. A good position means smooth driving without traffic jams all night. If it's misaligned or blocked by dust, the ETC recognition slows down and wastes power. Once, due to improper placement, the device malfunctioned, leaving me stuck at the toll booth—super frustrating. The ETC charges via solar power, so exposing it to sunlight ensures automatic maintenance. A fixed position also reduces signal interference, making the device last for years without replacement. New car models with built-in electronic devices hide the position directly, which is more convenient, but for add-on devices, this spot is perfect. Before installation, check the windshield's flatness, avoid placing it on reflective film, and secure it firmly with double-sided tape.

[StAlexander]

I save time on my daily commute thanks to ETC, positioned right at the top center inside the windshield—basically where it doesn’t obstruct your view while driving. Get the spot right, and the signal picks up fast for smooth, hassle-free toll passage. A bad position, like the side or with obstructions, might mean the ETC fails to read, forcing manual payment—total pain. My husband helped install it, wiping the spot crystal-clear before securing it firmly. Once fixed, it keeps kids from asking endless questions, letting me focus on driving. A good position also extends the ETC’s lifespan, prevents falls, and saves repair time.