ETKA Online

What is the ETKA online?

The term ETKA online stands for Electronic Parts Catalogue. This abbreviation is mainly used in connection with the spare parts catalogue of the Volkswagen company and all associated brands (e.g. Audi and Skoda). Especially for the maintenance, i.e. servicing and repair of motor vehicles, it is essential to know the exact specification of the original spare parts. This is why the current version of the ETKA online is in great demand in the relevant specialist circles.

Where can I find the current version of the ETKA online?

In general, the trade in spare parts (the so-called after-sales service) is a lucrative business that all manufacturers and OEMs are reluctant to give up. If you know the part number and thus also the specification, it is easy to obtain an identical spare part from a competitor who specialises in imitating original spare parts. For this reason, most vehicle manufacturers try to release the information only to authorised dealers and partner companies. It is therefore not so easy to take a look at ETKA unless an acquaintance works in the automotive field.

Some versions and excerpts are circulating on the internet. Since the exact version status is not known and the drawings could be copyrighted material, the information and especially its dissemination should be treated with caution.

Is it justifiable to restrict access to information so severely?

With regard to the trade in original spare parts, there have been some sensational media events in recent years. Mainly due to the high prices called for simple plastic parts . Also, the fact that the spare parts and repair business was very important for the large manufacturers, especially during the Corona crisis , shows how significant the sales in the spare parts and service business are for the companies. There is also a great fear that online retailers will discover the business as a lucrative source of income for themselves in the future. On the other hand, it should not be forgotten that many jobs still depend directly or indirectly on the automotive industry.

It should also be noted, of course, that the purchase price of new cars should be as low as possible and that most customers here only compare the purchase price and not the spare parts prices over the entire life cycle. Inevitably, a way must then be found to recoup the hefty discounts. So as long as the suppliers comply with their legal obligations and at the same time score points with good customer service, the price will be determined by supply and demand, as is the case with so many things.

Alternatives to ETKA online

The route via the authorised specialist workshop is certainly not the cheapest, but it also has the advantage of receiving the desired component in reliable quality. However, due to modern logistics and manufacturing processes, many parts have numerous markings. Often these are part numbers, QR codes, but also RFID markings. In combination with a mobile phone, the right app or simply Google, the right component can be quickly identified and the corresponding sources of supply located.