PPAP within APQP
Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is the method commonly used in automotive supply chains to demonstrate that production parts and the manufacturing process can consistently meet customer requirements. It is usually a Phase 4 APQP activity, but its evidence is created throughout the program.
What PPAP is—and is not
It is evidence of readiness
The submission assembles required evidence such as design records, approved engineering changes, process documents, measurement results, capability studies, material or performance results, and the Part Submission Warrant (PSW), as applicable.
It follows customer direction
The customer determines when a submission is required, the submission level, part requirements, format, and approval route. Do not assume a standard evidence list is sufficient for every customer.
It does not cure a weak process
Submitting forms cannot replace a stable, production-representative process. Resolve gaps before submission and control changes after approval according to customer and internal requirements.
PPAP readiness checks
- Confirm the current customer requirement, requested submission level, and due date.
- Verify that submitted parts were produced under the required production-representative conditions.
- Check agreement among drawings, process flow, PFMEA, control plan, work instructions, gauges, test methods, and records.
- Review all results against the acceptance criteria; clearly document any customer-approved deviation or interim approval.
- Retain the approved submission and supporting records in accordance with the applicable retention requirements.
After approval, APQP continues. Production data, audit results, complaints, and changes must feed into feedback and corrective action.