To make a decision, it is critical that you understand the various options available, the contractual requirements, and deadlines from the automotive manufacturers. There is one international standard, ISO/TS 16949:2002. In addition there are national standards like VDA 6.1. Just like ISO/TS 16949, the national standards all incorporate certification to the Quality Management System standard ISO 9001, and are committed to the transition of all their certificates to the ISO/TS 16949:2002 edition.

It is important to note that the general trend is a move away from the national standard schemes to the international ISO/TS 16949, but so far finalised transition dates have not been set for all of them. Big automotive manufacturers like DaimlerChrysler, Ford, and General Motors have already set transition deadlines.

On this Automotive Quality System homepage, we will give you an overview of the industry requirements and various standards.

Partner with DNV for:

• Certification to ISO/TS 16949. This international standard quality system standard is relevant to automotive production and service part organisations only. ISO/TS 16949:2002 is the second edition. The first edition expired on December 15, 2003. If certified to the 1999 version, you should begin the transition process.

• Certification to VDA 6.1, the German quality system standard.

The road to certification will help you prepare for an independent audit. Accredited certification will explain what DNV’s Risk Based Certification process entails.

DNV offers Risk Based Certification™ worldwide, and holds a wide range of national accreditations. With our global network of local resources, we provide you with the certification most suitable to your needs, type of business, and company location. Wherever you are, our auditors make it a point to know the business you are in.