If you've been informed that you need to undergo a VDA 6.3 process audit, it’s important to understand what this entails and how it differs from other audits you may have experienced. Whether it’s for a potential analysis as you bid for new business with a German OEM or Tier 1 supplier, or for an existing customer in series production, preparing for this audit can be key to maintaining or winning business.
What Sets VDA 6.3 Apart?
A VDA 6.3 audit is a process audit, not a system audit. Unlike audits for ISO 14001, ISO 9001, or IATF 16949, which assess the entire quality management system (QMS), VDA 6.3 focuses specifically on the processes that interact with or contribute to the value-added operations of the product your customer receives.
For example:
You won’t be asked about management reviews or the context of the organization.
Instead, the audit will center on the documentation, performance requirements, and processes related to the customer’s product.
In essence, the audit is narrow in scope but highly focused on what is critical to the customer’s expectations and the product's quality.
Preparing for a VDA 6.3 Audit
To get ready for this type of audit:
Familiarize yourself with the VDA 6.3 standard and its requirements specific to your customer’s product and processes.
Review the relevant documentation and ensure all processes meet the performance criteria outlined in the standard.
Understand the ISO 19011 guidelines, as the audit will follow its principles for conducting, planning, and closing audits.
What to Expect During the Audit
Audit Plan and Agenda: You’ll receive a detailed plan outlining the scope, processes to be assessed, and the audit trail to follow.
Audit Process: The auditor will collect objective evidence, assess your processes, and document findings. The audit will evaluate your organization’s conformance to the VDA 6.3 requirements.
Audit Report: At the end of the audit, you’ll receive a formal report, generated using the VDA 6.3 Audit Tool 2.0. This report will include:
Conformance Classification:
Potential Analysis: Rated as red, yellow, or green.
Full Process Audit: Classified as A, B, or C, with a numeric percentage for conformance.
Action Plan: Based on the findings, there may be follow-up actions required to address nonconformities or areas for improvement.
Duration and Focus
A VDA 6.3 audit typically lasts 3 to 5 days, depending on factors such as:
The size of your organization.
The number of products and processes being assessed.
The complexity of operations.
In most cases, a single auditor conducts the audit, and the focus remains on the processes and products that are most critical to the specific customer’s requirements.
What Happens After the Audit?
While the auditor may or may not oversee follow-up actions, it’s common for organizations to have corrective actions to implement based on the audit findings. These actions ensure continuous improvement and better alignment with customer expectations.
How ENCONA Can Help
Going through a VDA 6.3 audit can be a challenging process, but with proper preparation, it can also be a valuable opportunity to strengthen your operations. If you need guidance or support in understanding the requirements or preparing for the audit, ENCONA is here to help. Our team has extensive experience with VDA 6.3 and other auditing standards, ensuring your organization is ready to meet customer and conformance expectations.
Reach out to us to learn more about how we can support you!
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