Where is the suitable position to install ETC?
2 Answers
For small cars, the ETC device is generally installed in the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles such as trucks and buses, the installation position is in the middle to lower 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 explosion-proof film or those that have it installed later, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the device should be installed in the microwave skylight strip. ETC is the abbreviation for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply, you need to provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle license should include the page with the most recent annual inspection seal. 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 the 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 can 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 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 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. You will then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. Notes for using ETC: 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 toll deduction for the wrong vehicle. The ETC lane recognizes vehicle speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle device information and toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction failure.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and the most crucial spot to install the ETC is right at the top center of the windshield, near the rearview mirror. That area offers clear visibility, doesn't obstruct your view at all while driving, and has excellent signal reception—it gets detected instantly at toll booths. Avoid placing it too low or to the side, as the signal may become unstable and it's more likely to fall off. During installation, thoroughly clean the glass with alcohol to remove any grease, then firmly attach the ETC using its built-in adhesive. Once fixed in place, try not to move it around too much to prevent the adhesive from loosening or the device shifting, which would require reactivation. In summer heat, positioning it too close to the roof can shorten its lifespan due to high temperatures, whereas this spot stays relatively cooler. Regularly check the adhesive and the card slot to avoid discovering issues right before a long trip. In short, choosing the right location makes driving hassle-free and safer, prevents delays at toll booths, and extends the device's lifespan.
