Where to Place the ETC on the Windshield?
2 Answers
The installation position of the ETC for small cars is generally in the upper middle part of the windshield horizontally, 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 in height, with an installation angle between 30 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with factory-installed or later-added anti-explosion films, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the ETC should be installed in the microwave skylight zone. Here are the precautions for ETC installation: Do not obstruct the view; it is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a large backward tilt angle, which reduces the driver's field of vision. If this is not considered during ETC installation, it will increase the driver's blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid obstructing the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power, but generally, it does not need to be charged or have its battery replaced 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 easily 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 below. After the electronic tag is installed, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If it 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 go to 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 payment for the vehicle ahead. 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 payment failure. When using a debit card to bind with ETC, insufficient balance will also cause payment failure.
I've installed ETC devices on several cars before, and I'm used to placing them above the rearview mirror or in the upper right center area of the windshield, about 5-10 cm from the roof. This position ensures the most stable signal reception without blocking the toll station antenna. When installing, always wipe the glass clean with a dry cloth before sticking to avoid dust accumulation and detachment. If positioned incorrectly—like too low or too close to the left edge—it can cause glare while driving, obstruct visibility, and result in unreliable signals. DIY installation saves money and is convenient, but correct placement is crucial; otherwise, payment failures may require rework. Regularly check the device while driving to ensure it stays firmly in place for long-term ETC use.
