Get started with TÜV SÜD
Start your VDA 6.X certification journey with us today.
What is VDA 6.X certification?
The VDA 6.X quality management system (QMS) certification is an extension of ISO 9001 for the automotive industry. It is required by automotive manufacturers in Germany. The VDA 6.X is classified into two areas; management, and products & processes.
TÜV SÜD’s VDA 6.X certification service helps companies meet automotive QMS requirements, enhancing customer satisfaction and delivering a competitive edge.
Why VDA 6.X certification is important
The VDA 6 programme commits you to the long-term goal of consistently meeting and exceeding your customers’ expectations. It improves marketability as certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence, reliability and high quality service levels. This results in increased confidence and brings attention to your company’s products and services.
The VDA 6 audit process identifies problem areas which helps to reduce or eliminate downtime. This minimises wastage and boosts productivity during the manufacturing process. Certification also generates reliable documentation of your company’s high quality and performance. Publicising this material helps you stand out in the market and gain a competitive edge.
While VDA 6.1 is mandatory for automotive manufacturers, VDA 6.2 is required for automotive service providers, and VDA 6.4 for automotive tool and machine manufacturers.
How TÜV SÜD can help you with VDA 6.X certification
TÜV SÜD is a registered certification body with VDA-QMC. Our experienced team of global experts will guide you through the VDA 6 process, from the initial assessment to on-site audits and certification. Our extensive expertise in the automotive industry means we can help you identify opportunities and minimise potential risks. We also provide you with periodic feedback on ways to improve processes to accelerate performance and productivity. By partnering with us, your company will gain global recognition for its commitment to the highest standards.
Our VDA services include:
- In-depth assessment – TÜV SÜD tailors a unique programme to suit your organisation’s needs. We help you get started by conducting a pre-audit check to identify areas for improvement. Once you have made the necessary changes, our experts conduct an onsite audit. Following a successful audit, we then proceed with the certification application. Periodic audits improve your company’s performance levels.
- Relevant certifications – TÜV SÜD can also support you with multiple certification needs and services, including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and other automotive standards.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is VDA 6.1?
VDA 6.1 establishes requirements for direct suppliers and sub-contractors within the automotive industry. The standard addresses both specific technical requirements and those related to the company’s business and customer focus.
The VDA 6.1 certification ensures that the integrity of your products and processes are up to German manufacturing standards. For automobile part manufacturers, the VDA 6.1 certification can be issued together with IATF 16949 or on its own. In addition to the basic premise within the ISO 9001 standards, VDA 6.1 covers the following areas:
- Recognition of product risk
- Employee satisfaction
- Quotation structure
- Quality history
What is VDA 6.2?
VDA 6.2 is an automotive QMS certification addressing service providers in the automotive industry, such as car dealerships or logistics providers. The certification is an assurance to your customers that they can expect a consistent, high quality service at all times. This gives your company a competitive edge in the industry.
What is VDA 6.4?
The VDA 6.4 certification applies to manufacturers of tools and machines in the automotive industry. This includes manufacturers of single units and large-volume parts, e.g. manufacturers of machinery, facilities, tools, monitoring and measuring equipment. The reliability and safety of equipment is of utmost importance, especially for providers of such tools. This certification will assure your customers that your products are of the highest manufacturing and safety standards.
What is the complete VDA series?
The VDA series of volumes includes:
- Volume 1: Documentation and Archiving
- Volume 2: Quality Assurance for Supplies
- Volume 3: Ensuring Reliability of Car Manufacturers and Suppliers
- Volume 4.1: Quality Assurance Prior to Serial Application
- Volume 4.2: Quality Assurance Prior to Serial Application (FMEA)
- Volume 4.3: Project Planning
- Volume 6: Fundamentals for Quality Audits – Certification Requirements
- Volume 6.1: QM System Audit
- Volume 6.2: System Audit – Services
- Volume 6.3: Process Audit
- Volume 6.4: System Audit – Production Equipment
- Volume 6.5: Product Audit
- Volume 7: Basics for exchanging Quality Data
- Volume 8: Guideline for Quality Assurance by Trailer, Body and Container Manufacturers
- Volume 9: Emissions and Fuel Consumptions
