Introduction

From an internal auditor’s perspective, strong information security controls are essential in the automotive sector. Sensitive data flows constantly between manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. The Trusted Information Security Assessment Exchange (TISAX) offers a recognised framework to assess whether those controls are designed and operating effectively.

This article explains what TISAX is, how the audit process works, and how organisations can prepare in a structured and proportionate way.

What Is TISAX?

TISAX is an assessment and result-sharing mechanism developed specifically for the automotive industry. It enables organisations to demonstrate that their information security arrangements meet defined assurance levels and can be trusted by other parties in the supply chain.

From an audit standpoint, TISAX is important for several reasons:

Independent assurance
A successful TISAX assessment confirms that information security controls align with accepted industry requirements. OEMs and other stakeholders rely on this independent validation when selecting partners.

Secure collaboration
Automotive supply chains depend on frequent data exchange. TISAX provides confidence that suppliers and partners apply consistent security measures when handling confidential and personal information.

Commercial credibility
Holding a TISAX label strengthens market position by demonstrating that security risks are understood, managed, and reviewed regularly.

The TISAX Audit Process

Preparation Phase

Effective preparation reduces audit findings and shortens the assessment cycle. Internal auditors typically recommend the following steps:

Understand assessment requirements
Confirm which TISAX assessment objectives apply to your organisation. These should be mapped against existing policies, procedures, and technical controls.

Review your ISMS
Where an information security management system (ISMS) is already in place, test whether it is implemented consistently. If no formal ISMS exists, ISO/IEC 27001 provides a proven structure. While certification is not mandatory for TISAX, it supports control maturity and audit readiness.

Assessment Phase

The TISAX assessment is usually completed in two stages:

Initial assessment
An accredited audit provider reviews your ISMS documentation, control implementation, and operational practices against the TISAX requirements.

Corrective action assessment
Where gaps are identified, corrective actions must be defined, implemented, and evidenced. Follow-up reviews confirm whether issues have been resolved. All actions must normally be closed within a maximum period of nine months, ensuring timely risk reduction.

Closing Meeting

At the end of the assessment, the audit team conducts a closing meeting. Findings are explained clearly, risks are prioritised, and next steps are confirmed. This stage is critical for management understanding and accountability.

Benefits of TISAX Certification

From an assurance and governance perspective, TISAX offers clear advantages:

Reduced duplication
One recognised assessment can satisfy multiple customer requirements, saving time and cost.

Improved trust
Meeting defined security expectations reassures customers, partners, and regulators.

Stronger data protection
Consistent controls reduce the likelihood of breaches, regulatory exposure, and reputational damage.

Conclusion

Approached correctly, TISAX should be viewed as more than a compliance exercise. It provides a structured way to test, improve, and demonstrate information security controls across the organisation.

From an internal audit viewpoint, the real value lies not in the label itself, but in the discipline, transparency, and resilience it brings to information security management.

To learn how we can support your TISAX preparation and assessment, please follow the link below.