Will installing ETC in the black dotted area of the windshield affect its performance?
2 Answers
The ETC device can be installed in the black dotted area of the windshield, as long as it does not obstruct the driver's view and can detect the toll station's scanning equipment. However, installing it in the black dotted area has a drawback: the solar charging capability of the ETC device may weaken, potentially leading to power depletion over time. For passenger cars, the ETC is generally installed in the upper middle section of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, the installation position is in the lower middle section. The appropriate installation height should be no less 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 anti-sun films, which may interfere with microwave signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window strip area. Here are some key considerations for ETC installation: Avoid obstructing the driver's view; the best position is behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have windshields with a steep incline, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Placing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side helps avoid blocking the view. Ensure unobstructed solar charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require manual charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it in the black dotted area of the windshield or any position that might shade the solar panel. Do not remove the device once installed: The adhesive backing has an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. Once installed, the windshield presses this lever in. If the device is removed, the lever pops out, triggering the switch and locking the ETC tag, rendering it unusable until unlocked at an ETC service center. This feature prevents multiple vehicles from sharing one device. ETC usage tips: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid unintended payments for the vehicle ahead due to its malfunctioning ETC, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at speeds up to 20 km/h; exceeding this may cause reading failures. If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance will also result in payment failure.
I had a similar experience when installing the ETC device in my car. I wanted to find a discreet spot, so I placed it on the blackened area of the windshield. However, it didn't respond at toll booths at all, causing me to be stopped multiple times. Later, I consulted professionals at a specialized shop, and they explained that the black area contains an anti-UV coating or tiny dots with metallic materials that can block signals. ETC devices communicate with toll stations via radio waves, and once the signal is interfered with, it becomes as ineffective as a deaf person. The optimal location is the transparent glass area behind the rearview mirror, where there's no coating to obstruct the signal. After reinstalling it there, I had no further issues. I recommend you also avoid the blackened area and directly follow the recommended installation point in the manual to save unnecessary hassle or compromise travel safety.
