What is a VDA 6.3 Process Audit?
A VDA 6.3 process audit is a systematic assessment of processes against defined VDA 6.3 requirements and evaluation criteria.
Unlike a management system audit, which focuses primarily on the quality management system, a process audit examines how processes are actually planned, implemented, controlled and improved.
A VDA 6.3 audit can be used to:
- identify process risks and weaknesses
- assess process capability and performance
- evaluate suppliers and production processes
- reduce quality risks and non-conformities
- identify improvement opportunities
- verify the effectiveness of corrective actions
- strengthen process stability and reliability
For OEMs, Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers, a VDA 6.3 process audit can help identify weaknesses early, reduce quality risks and establish sustainable process improvements.
QMatrix supports automotive companies with VDA 6.3 process audits, supplier assessments and quality improvement initiatives.
VDA 6.3:2023 – What You Need to Know
The current edition of the standard is VDA 6.3:2023.
The revised edition updates the VDA 6.3 methodology and evaluation criteria and takes into account developments in areas such as software, potential analysis and modern audit approaches.
Companies using the previous VDA 6.3 edition should therefore review their existing audit procedures, questionnaires and auditor practices against the current requirements.
Goals and Benefits of VDA 6.3 Audits
VDA 6.3 audits focus on the following core processes:
Project & risk management
Product & process development
Supplier management
Production processes & quality assurance
Customer satisfaction
Business benefits of VDA 6.3 audits:
Optimized processes: Identify weaknesses early
Improved product quality: Maintain standards and competitiveness
Risk minimization: Prevent errors, defects, and recalls
Compliance: Meet customer and certification requirements
The VDA 6.3 Process Elements P1–P7
The VDA 6.3 methodology is structured around seven process elements.
P1 – Potential Analysis
P1 is used to evaluate the potential of suppliers, locations, technologies or projects before a detailed process assessment is carried out.
P2 – Project Management
P2 evaluates how projects are planned, organized, controlled and monitored, including responsibilities, resources, milestones and risk management.
P3 – Planning of Product and Production Process Development
P3 focuses on the planning of product and production process development and whether relevant requirements, risks and resources are considered at an early stage.
P4 – Implementation of Product and Production Process Development
P4 assesses whether the planned product and production process development activities have been implemented effectively.
P5 – Supplier Management
P5 addresses the selection, qualification, development and monitoring of suppliers and purchased products and services.
P6 – Process Analysis – Production
P6 focuses on the actual production process, including process inputs, personnel, equipment, process controls, quality assurance and process results.
P7 – Customer Service / Customer Satisfaction
P7 addresses customer-related processes, customer requirements, complaints, service and customer satisfaction.
Bottlesnecks of implementation
Implementing VDA 6.3 requires:
Certified auditors
Comprehensive process data
Investments in training, audits, and process optimization
QMatrix simplifies the process, reducing effort and complexity through experienced auditors and standardized procedures.
Best Practices for Successful VDA 6.3 Audits
Ongoing auditor training and development
Integrated audits aligned with ISO 9001 / IATF 16949
Strong stakeholder engagement, particularly from management
Digital audit tools to enhance efficiency
Regular follow-ups to ensure sustainable improvements
Our Audit Services
QMatrix provides:
Supplier Potential Analysis – Evaluate processes and identify risks
VDA 6.3 Process Audits – Comprehensive evaluation of production and quality processes
IATF 16949 & AS9001 Audits – Industry- and standards-compliant assessments
Technical Supplier Audits (TAS) – Short-term, targeted inspections
Conclusion
A VDA 6.3 audit is essential for companies seeking to secure process quality, optimize efficiency, and minimize risk. With QMatrix, you can implement the standard practically, efficiently, and objectively, achieving measurable results across your organization.
