IATF releases global automotive standard ISO/TS 16949

UL is committed to keeping our client’s informed by updating this site as soon as new developments in the ISO/TS 16949 process occur. Further information regarding ISO/TS 16949 can be obtained through the International Automotive Oversight Bureau.


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What is ISO/TS 16949?

ISO/TS 16949 is an ISO Technical Specification which aligns existing automotive quality system requirements within the global automotive industry. In conjunction with ISO 9001/9002:1994, ISO/TS 16949 specifies the quality system requirements for the design/development, production, and where relevant, installation and servicing of automotive-related products.

Who are the authors of ISO/TS 16949?

ISO/TS 16949 was written by the International Automotive Task Force (IATF). The IATF consists of an international group of vehicle manufactures including Ford, GM and Daimler Chrysler, as well as the following automotive trade associations: AIAG (America), VDA / QMC (Germany), SMMT (UK), ANFIA (Italy), CCFA and FIEV (France). Representatives and sub-committees of TC 176 also helped to prepare ISO/TS 16949.

What is the format of ISO/TS 16949?

• ISO 9001/ 9002:1994 define the international quality system requirements
• Sector requirements define international automotive quality system requirements
• Customer specific requirements are required by individual IATF customer members

Will ISO/TS 16949 be revised to align with ISO 9001:2000?

All indications are that the IATF plans to integrate ISO/TS 16949 with ISO 9001:2000.

Will ISO/TS 16949 be accepted in addition to current automotive standards such as QS-9000 and VDA 6.1?

Yes. Along with customer specific requirements, ISO/TS 16949 will satisfy the following automotive quality systems standards:

• QS-9000 (American),
• VDA 6.1 (German),
• AVSQ (Italian) and
• EAQF (French).
  

Will the above quality standards be replaced by ISO/TS 16949?

No! Plans for the withdrawal of QS-9000, VDA 6.1, AVSQ and EAQF have not been announced.

Which vehicle manufacturers will accept ISO/TS 16949?

Ford, GM (including Opel Vauxhall), Daimler Chrysler, BMW, Fiat, PSA Peugeot-Citroen, Renault SA and Volkswagen all support ISO/TS 16949. Check with your customer regarding acceptability of ISO/TS 16949.

What are the benefits of ISO/TS 16949?

Clients that provide automotive products to international markets will have the option of maintaining one quality system registration to meet multiple customer quality requirements. In addition to avoiding multiple certification audits, ISO/TS 16949 has been designed to improve product and process quality while increasing efficiency and reducing variation.

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