Where to Install ETC?

[DelMatteo]

For small cars, the ETC device is generally installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield, 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 factory-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect microwave signal transmission, the device should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip area. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID and vehicle registration certificate. If someone else is handling the application on behalf of the owner, the agent's valid ID is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page stamped with the most recent annual inspection seal. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway toll fees is needed, and the vehicle must be registered under an individual aged between 18 and 60. Here are some important notes 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 angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC device 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 on the back 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 in the middle has an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. Once installed, the windshield presses the lever in. If the device is removed, 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 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 from the vehicle ahead. The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h; driving too fast may result in failed fee deduction due to unreadable device information. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause deduction failure.

[MacSkylar]

I always install the ETC device on the inner side of the windshield near the rearview mirror, where it has good signal reception and doesn’t obstruct the view. Last time I tried installing it myself, I almost placed it too low, which affected my driving visibility. I had to visit a repair shop to fix it. They used special adhesive to secure it, avoiding areas with tint or metal that might interfere with signal reading. I also make it a habit to regularly check if it’s loose or dusty, cleaning it gently with a soft cloth to avoid shortening its lifespan. This location is super convenient for highway tolls, saving time with just a few seconds per pass. I recommend new car owners not to cut corners by installing it themselves—it’s best to have professionals handle it to ensure safety and reliability.