New IATF 16949 rules 6th edition (SI1 - SI-17 Sanctioned Interpretations)

valid from 1 January 2025

The new IATF 16949 Rules 6, published in November 2024 and binding from 1 January 2025. It is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the changes and include them in your planning.

The main changes include:

1. Competence requirements for auditors
Auditors must have extensive expertise in the automotive industry and a risk-based mindset. Certification bodies must ensure that auditors understand the IATF 16949 requirements and customer requirements and receive regular training.

2. Requirements for certification bodies
Certification bodies must work impartially and objectively, and collect detailed information on previous audits and nonconformities to verify the organisation's readiness for certification.

3. Planning and conducting audits
Audit planning must be risk-based and cover all relevant processes and locations. Audit dates must be confirmed at least 90 days in advance, and additional time is required if OEM quality targets are not met.

4. Audit reports
Audit reports must be generated using the CARA tool to clearly document nonconformities and audit results. These must be sent to the customer immediately after the audit closing meeting.

5. Handling of deviations
In the event of serious nonconformities, an on-site audit must be carried out within 90 days to verify the corrective actions. If an immediate solution is not possible, a special audit will be required.

6. Certification and certification monitoring
Certificates are valid for three years, with regular surveillance audits required. After a special audit, the certification decision must be made within 120 days.

Link to IATF Rules 6th Edition Sanctioned Interpretations (SIs) – International Automotive Task Force

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