IATF 16949 Certification

IATF 16949 CERTIFICATION

Automotive Quality Management System Certification

Automotive Quality Management System Certification

What is IATF 16949?

IATF 16949 management system specifies the requirements of a quality management system for automotive production. Born from the need for a globally harmonised quality management system requirements document, IATF 16949 was published in October 2016. It supersedes the automotive standard ISO/TS 16949, which is no longer valid. IATF 16949 Automotive quality standard certification requirements include the following key aspects:

  • Product safety
  • Risk management and contingency planning
  • Requirements for embedded software
  • Change and warranty management
  • Management of sub-tier suppliers

Our free whitepaper provides further Information about the certification requirement and process.

Download our IATF 16949 Whitepaper

 

Why is certification to IATF 16949 important?

Obtaining the IATF 16949 certification demonstrates that your company has met extensive requirements to create a process of continuous improvement with an emphasis on defect prevention and reduction of variation and waste in the supply chain. The technical specification is implemented for all branches of manufacturers and suppliers of products or production materials, services such as heat treatment or galvanising, and other products specified by automotive customers such as the constituent parts of vehicles.

Certification to this technical specification is recognised by leading automotive manufacturers and OEMs. Most leading manufacturers will only work with IATF 16949 certified companies that hold IATF 16949 certification, as they insist that suppliers adhere to the strict technical specifications laid out in the standard.

get started with tüv süd

TÜV SÜD has over 100 years of experience in automotive solutions, working with top OEMs and suppliers across the entire value chain. Our highly qualified auditors are conveniently available in all key regions across the globe. Your company can take advantage of our many local TÜV SÜD offices for immediate support. Our certifications are among the most reputed worldwide. We are an official IATF-contracted and registered Certification Body. By choosing TÜV SÜD, your certification will be instantly recognised by automotive OEMs everywhere.

IATF 16949 certification 

Entry into IATF Database: As a certified IATF 16949 client, TÜV SÜD will enter your company into the IATF Database. This is used to inform all automotive OEMs that your company has a valid IATF16949 certification.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • When will the IATF Rules 6th Edition come into effect?

    The IATF Rules 6th Edition will be fully implemented starting January 1, 2025. On this date:

    • The 6th Edition will officially replace the 5th Edition.
    • All sanctioned interpretations and frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to the 5th Edition will become obsolete.
    • Organisations must align their processes with the new requirements by this deadline.

    By preparing early for these changes, your organisation can ensure seamless compliance with the updated rules and maintain your IATF 16949 certification.

     

  • What are the main changes in the IATF 16949 Rules 6th Edition?

    The IATF Rules 6th Edition introduces several key updates aimed at strengthening and refining the IATF 16949 certification process. These changes focus on improving clarity and effectiveness in auditing procedures. 

    The primary areas of change include: the audit cycle, duration, planning, extended manufacturing site, nonconformity management, decertification process, and virtual auditing.

    These updates aim to enhance the credibility and efficiency of the certification process, ensuring that organisations consistently meet the stringent requirements of IATF 16949.

    To learn more about the changes, click here to read our blog.

     

  • How can my company embark on the IATF 16949 certification journey?

    You can contact us here to get started.

     

  • What are the key requirements for IATF 16949 certification?

    The key requirements for IATF 16949 certification include:

    • Ensuring the safety of products
    • Managing and mitigating risks
    • Planning and preparation for contingencies
    • Embedded software
    • Change and warranty management
    • Management of sub-tier suppliers

     

  • How long does the IATF 16949 certification process take?

    The duration of the audit for the IATF 16949 certification process varies for each organisation. After the audit, the TÜV SÜD assessor will submit the audit report to the organisation within a maximum of 15 calendar days.

    If the assessor identifies a non-conformity, the organisation must address it within a maximum of 60 calendar days, after which the review process will resume. Overall, the technical review will issue a certification decision within 120 calendar days from the last day of the audit.

  • How often is recertification required for IATF 16949?

    IATF 16949 certification is valid for three years, requiring recertification after that.

     

  • Are there specific industries which are eligible for IATF 16949 certification?

    Only organisations that manufacture automotive products and vehicles are eligible for the IATF 16949 certification.

    The IATF 16949 certification is a valuable standard for many segments of the automotive industry, like:

    • Automobile manufacturers
    • Automotive suppliers
    • Manufacture of automotive components
  • What is the difference between ISO 9001 and IATF 16949?

    While ISO 9001 is a general standard applicable to all industries, IATF 16949 is specific to the automotive industry. IATF 16949 quality management system must be implemented as an extension and in combination with ISO 9001:2015.

     

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