¶ 
PPAP
The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is a standardized process used in the automotive industry to ensure that suppliers can consistently produce parts that meet customer (OEM or Tier 1) requirements—both in design and quality—at the required production rate.
It’s a critical element of Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and is required by automotive quality standards like IATF 16949.
¶ What is PPAP?
PPAP = Production Part Approval Process
It’s a formal submission and approval process where a supplier demonstrates that:
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They understand all design and specification requirements
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Their manufacturing process is capable of consistently producing conforming parts
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They’ve established controls to catch and prevent defects
¶ When is PPAP Required?
Typically triggered when:
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A new part or product is developed
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A change is made to the design, supplier, material, or production process
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Production is moved to a new location
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Tooling is modified or replaced
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A restart after long production interruption
¶ 🧾 The 18 Elements of a PPAP Submission (Core Documents)
Not all of these are always required—the customer specifies the submission level (1 to 5):
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Design Records (Drawings)
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Authorized Engineering Change Documents
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Engineering Approval
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DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis)
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Process Flow Diagram
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PFMEA (Process FMEA)
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Control Plan
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Measurement System Analysis (MSA) — e.g., Gage R&R
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Dimensional Results
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Records of Material / Performance Tests
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Initial Process Studies — e.g., Cp, Cpk
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Qualified Laboratory Documentation
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Appearance Approval Report (AAR) (if cosmetic parts)
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Sample Production Parts
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Master Sample
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Checking Aids
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Customer Specific Requirements
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Part Submission Warrant (PSW) — formal summary document
Note: These elements are not limited to 18; they are fully customizable and can be extended based on customer requirements within the Perfeckto QMS system.
¶ PPAP Submission Levels
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Part Submission Warrant (PSW) only |
| 2 | PSW + limited supporting data |
| 3 | PSW + full supporting documentation (most common) |
| 4 | PSW + other requirements defined by the customer |
| 5 | PSW + full documentation + on-site review |
Note: Submission Levels are fully customizable within the Perfeckto QMS system.
¶ 🤝 Supplier ↔ OEM Process
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Supplier prepares PPAP package
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Submits to OEM or Tier 1
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OEM reviews and approves (or rejects with feedback)
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Once approved, supplier can start mass production
¶ Why PPAP Matters
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Ensures product quality and manufacturing readiness
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Reduces launch risks
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Forms the baseline for future production
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Required for traceability and audit readiness
¶ Tools Often Used
- Perfeckto QMS system to manage PPAP workflow