Where should the ETC be installed?

[Stephen]

The ETC is generally installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield for regular vehicles, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed on 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 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 sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, meaning electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle license. If the application is handled by someone other than 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 stamp. 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. For company vehicles, the required documents include: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); original ID card of the agent; original vehicle license; and the vehicle that needs to have ETC installed. 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 reduces 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. Once installed, do not remove it casually: 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 casually, 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 in front 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, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.

[McRachel]

I often install ETC devices while driving. Generally, it should be attached to the inner side of the front windshield, near the rearview mirror or slightly to the left. Why? Because that area causes the least visual distraction, so you won’t be distracted while driving. Moreover, the ETC needs a direct signal toward the toll booth antenna, and the top area provides the best reception, as the windshield in this position rarely has metal or tint film blocking it. I once placed it incorrectly at the bottom or side, resulting in intermittent signals, and I had to manually lift the barrier after paying. I recommend cleaning the glass with a damp cloth before installation, letting it dry completely, and then attaching it firmly to prevent the device from sliding and interfering with reception. Also, make sure it doesn’t block the rearview mirror or forward visibility—safety should always come first, or turning or changing lanes could become dangerous. If your car has a sunroof, that’s an even better location, as ETC manuals usually recommend this area.

[VanElliott]

As someone who values car cleanliness, I believe the ETC placement should balance practicality and aesthetics. I prefer to stick it in a small area to the left of the rearview mirror. This spot is both discreet and convenient, maintaining the car's overall style without compromising functionality. After installation, the signal works smoothly, ensuring hassle-free highway passage. I've seen others place it on the dashboard or center console, but those spots tend to accumulate dust and partially obstruct the windshield, creating visual clutter. My advice is to install it on a sunny day, clean the glass surface with alcohol to minimize bubbles affecting adhesion, and test the device to ensure the indicator light works properly before hitting the road. The ETC device itself is compact, and choosing the right location makes driving easier, especially during long trips where convenience matters most.

[EmmaAnn]

From a technical perspective, the optimal placement for ETC devices is near the rearview mirror at the top of the windshield, as electromagnetic wave transmission requires a clear path. The ETC antenna communicates with toll stations via wireless signals, and this windshield location avoids metal or thick film obstructions, maximizing signal coverage for faster toll processing. Alternative positions like A-pillars or side windows may attenuate signal strength, leading to read failures or incorrect charges. Personally, I recommend checking the device manual before installation to confirm vehicle compatibility, cleaning the surface with a dry cloth to avoid moisture residue, and avoiding frequent relocation after securing it to prevent internal chip interference. Modern automotive glass design accounts for such accessories—proper installation ensures smooth and efficient driving every day.