Where to Stick ETC?
3 Answers
The installation position of 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 middle-lower 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 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 is the abbreviation 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 registration certificate. If the application is made by someone other than the owner, the agent's valid ID card must also be provided. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page stamped with the most recent annual inspection seal. A bank card linked to the owner's name for deducting highway toll fees is required, and the owner must be between 18 and 60 years old. 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 a large inclination angle for the windshield, 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 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 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. Using ETC requires attention: 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, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also cause toll deduction failure.
Last time I installed an ETC, I specifically researched the placement. It's usually affixed to the inside of the windshield, near the rearview mirror, preferably on the right side or lower area. Why choose that spot? Because it ensures optimal signal reception, doesn't obstruct the driver's view, and maintains safety. Use dedicated double-sided tape for adhesion—3M is recommended as it resists peeling in high temperatures. The steps are simple: first clean the glass, remove the tape's protective layer, press firmly for several seconds, then avoid moving it for 48 hours. If placed off-center or too low, signal failure may occur, causing issues at highway toll gates and requiring troublesome reinstallation. ETC is super convenient—automatic fee deduction saves time, and correct placement extends its lifespan, avoiding repair costs. I even tested it in extreme weather conditions; with proper positioning, it won't fall off.
I think the ETC placement should consider family safety. When my wife and I take our child out, we stick the ETC on the inner windshield near the rearview mirror area. That spot has a clear view, and if the adhesive holds well, it won't move for years, avoiding distractions while driving. Before sticking, clean the glass thoroughly to prevent grease from weakening the adhesive. A wrong position might cause the device to fall off or lose signal, making reinstallation troublesome. ETC offers many benefits, like saving time in long-distance travel by skipping queues and providing fare discounts. Once installed, avoid moving it—even in summer heat, it stays secure. Just a little tip.
