IMDS 15.2 Release: Key Changes for Material Compliance and Data Quality
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IMDS 15.2 Release: Key Changes for Material Compliance and Data Quality

The IMDS 15.2 Release introduces targeted compliance updates that affect how materials, substances and data quality are managed from January 2026.

 

IMDS 15.2 Release – Overview

The IMDS 15.2 Release, rolled out to production on January 21, 2026, introduces several targeted changes aimed at improving regulatory clarity, data quality and transparency within the International Material Data System. While no new regulations are introduced, the update has direct implications for how companies manage material data, substances and compliance checks in IMDS.
 

What’s New in IMDS 15.2

 

  • Exemption of ceramics and glass from BPR
    Materials classified as ceramics or glass (classification 7.2) no longer require Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) information. Existing BPR data for these materials remains valid, while open BPR update requests are automatically closed.
     
  • No “rest” portion for SVHC and GADSL substances
    For substances listed on the SVHC Candidate List or marked as prohibited or duty-to-declare under GADSL, the use of a generic “rest” portion is no longer allowed. This change increases precision and supports higher-quality compliance reporting. Existing material data remains valid.
     
  • Improved traceability in MDS search
    A new column showing the date of the last status change has been added to MDS, module, component and material search views, improving transparency across supplier and OEM data exchanges.
     
  • Updated IMDS check message
    The revised system message clarifies that a successful IMDS check does not automatically guarantee full regulatory or customer-specific compliance, highlighting the continued need for manual review.
     

Why the IMDS 15.2 Release Matters for Companies

The IMDS 15.2 Release reduces unnecessary regulatory input for certain materials, strengthens substance transparency for SVHC and GADSL reporting, and reinforces the importance of internal compliance processes beyond automated system checks. Automotive OEMs and suppliers should review internal guidelines, supplier instructions and training materials accordingly.
 

Official IMDS 15.2 Release Notes

The full IMDS 15.2 Release Notes are available via the official IMDS communication channels:
👉 International Material Data System – IMDS 15.2 Release Notes, December 12, 2025

 

IMDS & IPOINT's Compliance Software

With the IMDS 15.2 Release, data quality, regulatory clarity and traceability become even more critical across the automotive supply chain. IPOINT's IMDS software supports OEMs and suppliers in implementing these changes efficiently by automating IMDS data management, validating material and substance information, and ensuring compliance with global regulations such as ELV, REACH, RoHS and TSCA. Integrated checks, supplier collaboration workflows and built-in sustainability intelligence – including PCF calculation capabilities aligned with Catena-X – help companies stay compliant, audit-ready and prepared for future regulatory and customer requirements.
 

For a deeper dive into IMDS 15, watch our webinar “IMDS 15: What’s New – And How to Stay Compliant,” featuring expert insights into the future of automotive compliance:
 

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