What VDA 6 is and why buyers ask for it
VDA 6 is a family of automotive quality standards published by the VDA — the German Association of the Automotive Industry. Its best-known component, the VDA 6.3 process audit, is used to assess the capability and risk of a manufacturing process, while related parts address quality management system and product audits. Together they are the audit methodology the German automotive sector relies on.
For suppliers to German OEMs — Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and their tier suppliers — VDA requirements are often specified directly. Demonstrating strong VDA 6.3 process-audit results is, in practice, a condition of winning and keeping that business, sitting alongside the broader IATF 16949 quality system.
What the audit covers
VDA 6 audits focus on process capability and risk, typically including:
- Process inputs and planning — readiness of a process to deliver quality
- Process steps and controls — capability at each stage of production
- Personnel, equipment and material effectiveness
- Customer-specific requirements of the relevant OEM
The VDA 6.3 process audit in particular produces a clear, scored view of where a process is strong and where it carries risk.
How ABS helps
The VDA 6.3 process audit is carried out by your customer or by a qualified VDA 6.3 auditor. ABS prepares your processes for it:
- Process review — we review your processes against the VDA 6.3 requirements and identify where they carry risk.
- Improvement actions — we help you strengthen process controls, capability and the customer-specific requirements of your OEMs.
- Readiness check — a pre-assessment against the VDA 6.3 requirements before the audit.
- Audit support — support during the audit and in closing any findings.
Typical timeline
For most organisations, a VDA 6 engagement takes around 12–16 weeks, depending on the scope and the number of processes assessed. Each engagement begins with a fixed-price scoping call and a proposal within 24 hours.
Common questions
What is VDA 6 and VDA 6.3?
VDA 6 is a family of automotive quality standards from the VDA. VDA 6.3 is its process audit, used to assess the capability and risk of a manufacturing process; related parts cover system and product audits.
How does VDA 6 relate to IATF 16949?
IATF 16949 is the global automotive quality management system standard; VDA 6 provides the audit methodology favoured by the German sector. Many suppliers to German OEMs hold IATF 16949 and also use VDA 6.3 because their customers require it. It is especially relevant to automotive manufacturers.
How long does a VDA 6 engagement take?
For most organisations, a VDA 6 engagement takes around 12–16 weeks, depending on the scope and the number of processes assessed.
What does ABS do, and who carries out the VDA 6.3 audit?
ABS prepares your processes for the audit: a process review against the VDA 6.3 requirements, improvement actions, a readiness check and support during the audit and in closing any findings. The VDA 6.3 process audit itself is carried out by your customer or by a qualified VDA 6.3 auditor.
How often is a VDA 6.3 audit repeated?
There is no certificate period. Your customer decides when a VDA 6.3 process audit is carried out and how often it is repeated.
Which edition of VDA 6.3 is current?
The current edition of the VDA 6.3 process audit is the 2023 edition, published in January 2023 to replace the 2016 edition.
