The BMW ETK (Elektronischer Teilekatalog) serves as the definitive electronic parts catalog for BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles, providing a comprehensive database for identifying Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) components. While authorized dealers now primarily access this data through the web-based Aftersales Online System (AOS), the standalone ETK software remains a critical tool for independent specialists and enthusiasts requiring offline access to the complete parts library. Updated monthly, the January 2026 release continues to offer precise part identification, separating specific components from thousands of variants based on vehicle production dates and equipment options.
Key Features
- VIN-Specific Filtering: Eliminates guesswork by decoding the full 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number to display only the parts actually installed on that specific car, hiding incompatible options.
- Exploded View Diagrams: detailed graphical illustrations show assembly order and component relationships, helping users visualize how individual washers, clips, and sensors fit together within larger systems.
- Supersession History: Tracks the lifecycle of part numbers, instantly alerting users if an older component has been discontinued and replaced by a newer, improved version to ensure current inventory compatibility.
- Retrofit and Accessory dаta: dedicated sections list official upgrade kits (such as performance brakes or towing hitches) complete with all necessary mounting hardware and auxiliary parts required for installation.
- Parts Usage Search: Allows users to reverse-search a specific part number to see every other vehicle model and engine configuration where that identical component is used, which is vital for sourcing compatible salvage parts.
Use Cases
Independent repair shops rely on this software to build accurate repair estimates by sourcing the exact bolt or gasket needed for a job without ordering the wrong revision. Restoration specialists also use the historical data to verify period-correct components for classic chassis like the E30 or E46, ensuring every trim piece matches the original factory specification.
For anyone maintaining a BMW vehicle, ETK provides the factory-level data necessary to bypass third-party ambiguity and secure the correct components the first time.
Version Latest — 2026
- Expanded Vehicle dаta: Integrated complete parts catalog support for 2026 model year chassis, including the all-new X3 (G45), M5 Sedan (G90), and the refreshed i4/4 Series Gran Coupé (G26 LCI).
- Updated Price Files: Synchronized global price lists with the latest 2026 manufacturer MSRP data, ensuring accurate quoting for repair facilities and parts counters.
- Enhanced VIN Decoding: Improved accuracy for the VIN interpretation engine to correctly identify specific options and trim levels for the newest electric and hybrid powertrains (XM Label, iX variants).
- Interface Optimization: Refined the search algorithm for faster part number retrieval and implemented clearer "supersession" chains to better track replaced or obsolete components.
- Bug Fixes: Resolved minor stability issues causing connection timeouts during high-volume server queries and fixed display errors for specific retrofit kit diagrams.
