VDA seal: WashTec AG - Autowaschtechnik weit voraus.

VDA seal

WashTec car washing technology and AUWA wash chemicals are VDA-compliant.

By the end of 2009, a committee headed by the VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie e.V.), had developed guidelines for car washes and wash chemicals. As part of this committee, WashTec represented manufacturers of car washing technology. The aim of the guideline is to, in the future, provide better mechanisms for avoiding damage to vehicles in car washes more effectively than at present, specifically by directly aligning vehicles, car wash technology and wash chemicals.

Car washes (gantry car washes, conveyor tunnel systems,
self-service car wash systems) which comply with VDA specifications in terms of machine technology and chemicals can apply for a VDA seal. The VDA seal indicates that the car wash in question has the lowest possible risk of damage and that it complies with the parameters described.

The current WashTec car washes and AUWA chemicals
are VDA-compliant and can therefore be considered for the
VDA seal.

For car wash customers, the VDA seal certifies that the car wash complies with the standards developed on behalf of the VDA. Information about the
VDA seal will, in the future, also appear on the washing and care recommendations for new cars.

Here, we have compiled a list of the most important questions and answers relating to the VDA seal:

Where can I obtain the VDA seal?

Operators of car washes are able to apply for the VDA seal online. The VDA QMC (Quality Management Centre in the VDA) made a special application form available online at www.vda-carwash.de for operators to fill in. In addition to company data, such as the company’s name, address, contact person, etc., the form also contains details about the machine technology and chemicals used.

From when can I apply for the seal?

You are able to apply for the seal through the VDA QMC from now on. The VDA-compliant car washes and wash chemicals are at present stated by the individual manufacturers and should then be selected in the application form.

From where do I obtain the necessary conformity certificates for the car wash technology?

When making an application, it is sufficient to select the products that you use – if they are in the list. For random tests that will be performed at a later date, you also need the conformity certificates in paper form for the on-site documentation at the car wash. These certificates can be obtained from your suppliers, as long as they have tested and approved your products accordingly. All new WashTec systems and AUWA chemicals will be automatically supplied with the conformity certificate.

Where can I obtain the VDA seal?

The seal is issued by the VDA QMC and not by the manufacturers, who only issue the conformity certificates.

How long is the seal valid for?

The VDA seal and the associated contract are each valid for 24 months.

How much does the seal cost?

The required annual contributions cover administrative and staff costs and are currently 100 € for one car wash. If you have more than 10 car washes, a staggered discount applies.

Can I advertise the certification?

Yes, the car wash operator has the right to use the VDA seal for the purposes of advertising and providing customer information. More details are available from the VDA QMC. They are set out in the contract.

What happens if I change my car wash technology or chemical suppliers?

You must document and report changes to the car wash and machine technology and/or chemical products used to the VDA QMC. More details on this are available from the VDA QMC. They are also set out in the contract.

If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us on info@washtec.de.