VDA 6.3 process audit | VDA 6.3 process audit checklist | Elements

VDA stands for Verband der Automobilindustrie. VDA 6.x series is a German Quality Management System Standard used for the effective implementation and maintenance of a QMS in the Automotive industry and its supply chain. VDA 6.3 process audit standard is a part of the VDA6.x family which is used to evaluate the effectiveness of manufacturing processes within an organization, especially in the automotive sector. VDA 6.3 standard is crucial for ensuring that the manufacturing processes are effective, efficient, reliable, and capable of consistently generating high-quality products.

The VDA 6.3 process audit is integrated into a company’s QM system and contributes to the fulfillment of the requirements according to the IATF 16949:2016 QMS standard.

VDA 6.x Series | Quality Management System Standards of the German Automotive Industry

VDA 6.x family included 8 volumes:

VDA 6.1: Quality Management System Audit – for Serial Production

VDA 6.2: Quality Management System Audit – for Service organizations

VDA 6.3: Process Audit – for evaluating, controlling, and improving the manufacturing process performance of the automotive industry.

VDA 6.4: Quality Management System Audit – for Production Equipment

VDA 6.5: Product Audit – for Guidelines to determine the quality assurance effectiveness and the capability of the production process by product verification/examination.

VDA 6.6: Process Audit – for other services

VDA 6.7: Process Audit – for Production Equipment

VDA 6.8: Process Audit – for Logistics

Note: Certification requirements only for VDA 6.1, VDA6.2 and VDA 6.4

VDA 6.3 Process Audit | Key Aspects

1. Objective:

   • The primary goal of a VDA 6.3 process audit is to assess and improve the effectiveness of processes within an organization. This involves identifying areas for improvement to enhance product quality, reduce waste, and improve overall performance.

2. Scope:

   • VDA 6.3 audits typically cover all aspects of the production process, from planning and development to production and delivery. This includes evaluating process management, product development, production processes, and customer service.

3. Audit Structure:

   • The VDA 6.3 audit process is divided into several stages:
     • Planning: Defining the scope, objectives, and criteria for the audit.
     • Preparation: Gathering necessary information and documentation.
     • Execution: Conducting the audit through interviews, observations, and document reviews.
     • Reporting: Documenting findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
     • Follow-up: Ensuring that corrective actions are implemented and effective.

4. Process Elements:

   The standard emphasizes various process elements, including:

   • Process Management: Assessing how well processes are managed, including planning, resource allocation, and risk management.
   • Product Development: Evaluating the processes involved in designing and developing products, including design reviews and validation.
   • Production and Delivery: Reviewing manufacturing processes, quality control measures, and logistics.
   • Customer Interaction: Analyzing how customer requirements are captured and addressed.

5. Audit Criteria:

   • Auditors use specific criteria to evaluate processes, which may include compliance with industry standards, effectiveness of process controls, and alignment with organizational goals.

6. Benefits:

   • Implementing VDA 6.3 process audits helps organizations achieve:
     • Improved process efficiency and effectiveness.
     • Higher product quality and reliability.
     • Better customer satisfaction and compliance with industry standards.
     • Identification and mitigation of potential risks.

7. Training and Certification:

   • Auditors need to be properly trained and certified to conduct VDA 6.3 audits. This ensures they have the necessary skills and knowledge to assess processes and provide valuable insights effectively.

VDA 6.3 Process Audit Checklist | Elements

VDA 6.3 was published for the first time in 1998 and was revised in 2010, 2016, and 2023 (current edition).

Audit Report VDA 6.3 Potential Analysis (P1) excerpt from VDA 6.3 questionnaire/checklist.

Overall, VDA 6.3 process audits are essential for organizations aiming to enhance their operational/manufacturing processes, and customer satisfaction, maintain high standards of quality, and achieve continual improvement in the process and process quality.

VDA 6.3 FAQ