Where to Stick the ETC?
4 Answers
ETC is affixed to the windshield behind the rearview mirror of the car. The installation steps for ETC are as follows: 1. Peel off the double-sided adhesive plastic film on the back of the ETC device and stick it to the upper part of the windshield behind the rearview mirror; 2. Press firmly for about 10 seconds after sticking; 3. Insert the card into the ETC device and pull it out, repeating this operation several times to activate Bluetooth; 4. Turn on Bluetooth mode on the phone to start pairing, and activation will be successful once completed. ETC is an electronic toll collection system, also known as an automatic road toll system, commonly found on highways, toll bridges or tunnels, and some sections of downtown areas.
When driving on highways, I frequently use ETC, which is usually attached to the upper center of the windshield's interior, near the rearview mirror. This location offers an unobstructed view, doesn’t interfere with driving visibility, and provides the best signal reception, allowing for quick identification and passage at toll stations. Before installation, clean the glass with alcohol wipes to remove dust or grease that might affect adhesion. The ETC device comes with strong double-sided tape—align it properly and press firmly for a few seconds to secure it, preventing loosening or detachment due to road bumps. If the windshield has dark tint or sunshades, avoid covering the signal area to prevent malfunction at toll stations, which might require manual handling. Improper placement or positioning it too low can accumulate dust and shorten its lifespan, so regular cleaning checks are recommended. Some people place it on the dashboard for convenience, but this lower position may weaken the signal, obstruct the view, and increase risks—safety comes first, so it’s best to install it in the standard position. After installation, remember to activate the ETC device to ensure smooth and uninterrupted account deductions.
After years of using ETC devices, the placement technique matters: the optimal position is on the upper left side of the windshield interior, close to the driver's line of sight without obstructing the view. This ensures the strongest signal strength, allowing toll station antennas to accurately capture it and avoid misreads that could cause crossing failures. During installation, ensure the glass is flat and dry, press the original adhesive strip firmly in place, and avoid operating in high temperatures to prevent adhesive softening and poor adhesion. Placing it too far to the right or in low-lying areas can lead to rainwater and dirt accumulation, blocking the sensor area and reducing efficiency. Before sticking, remove the protective film and lightly test the angle to ensure no bubbles or wrinkles. Some people choose the dashboard for easy access, but this can lead to sliding and obstruction while driving—professionally fixing it to the glass ensures stability. The ETC battery lasts about two to three years; correct placement reduces the hassle of frequent replacements. On highways, saving time is key—proper positioning ensures convenience and peace of mind.
Mounting the ETC device at the top center of the windshield is both safe and practical. It avoids the most hazardous line-of-sight obstruction while maintaining high positioning for clear visibility and optimal signal reception to ensure smooth passage. Before installation, clean the glass surface thoroughly to remove grease and dirt for better adhesion. After securing, gently tug to test stability and prevent potential hazards from detachment. Avoid critical areas if tinted film affects signal transmission, and ensure minimal sunlight reflection for device durability. Proper positioning allows easy maintenance with simple wiping. Priority should always be given to driving safety and convenience when selecting the installation location.
