Changes to VDA 6.3:2023

Changes to VDA 6.3:2023

VDA 6.3 has been widely applied for process audits in the automotive supply chain. VDA 6.3:2023 has been published in Jan 2023, to replace its former version of 2016. The new version of VDA 6.3 has quite some significant changes.

What has remained the same?

• The structure of questionnaire
• The classification system (A, B, C) for overall assessment 
• The evaluation model for individual questions (10-8-6-4-0)
• The application of process elements P2-P7
• The Turtle Model
• The downgrading rules

The primary changes in VDA 6.3:2023?

• Software-related items considered in questionnaire
• Harmonization with VDA methods Automotive SPICE® and VDA MLA
• Requirements regarding purchasing activities added to P3 and P4
• Specification of auditor qualification
• Notes on conducting remote audits added
• Chapter 4 “Audit process” deleted (as its contents are in ISO 19011)
• Chapter 8 “Process audit services” deleted (to be included in a separate document VDA 6.8)
• Charter 10 “Best Practices / Lessons Learned” deleted
• The evaluation of transport and parts handling (Eu7) omitted
• Glossary transferred to a comprehensive VDA QMC online glossary
• Some other editorial revisions

Specific Revision to Questionnaire in VDA 6.3:2023

• 59 questions (from 58 in previous version)
• Questions with * partially redefined
• Questions regarding P1 Potential Analysis partially reallocated
• Integration of software requirements
• Requirements with regard to purchasing in P3 and P4

Comparison of Audit Results

The results of audits conducted according to VDA 6.3:2023 are not directly comparable to the results of audits according to the former version.

Support by DQS

DQS Academy is providing VDA 6.3:2023 Process Audit training to help clients to understand the changes and facilitate the application of process audits according to the new version of standard.