PPAP Documents

On this site, you will find lots of information on building or updating a complete PPAP. This site includes PPAP information, different levels of PPAP that can be requested, examples of submissions, training providers and a checklist to make sure your Production Part Approval Process is correct.

From initial design to full production approval

The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is a structured method used to ensure that manufacturing processes consistently produce parts that meet all customer engineering and quality requirements. Most commonly applied within the automotive and advanced manufacturing supply chains, PPAP provides confidence that suppliers can deliver conforming parts at scale, every time.
By documenting design intent, process controls, and validation results, PPAP reduces risk before mass production begins. It creates a clear, auditable trail that demonstrates compliance, capability, and readiness. Helping both suppliers and customers avoid costly issues later in the production lifecycle.

A few topics we discuss with our experienced guests:

A complete PPAP submission is made up of multiple documents that collectively demonstrate product conformity, process capability, and manufacturing readiness. Below is an overview of the key PPAP elements and their purpose within the approval process.

PPAP DocumentSummaryView More
Part Submission Warrant (PSW)Formal declaration that all PPAP requirements have been met and the part is approved for production.View more
Design RecordsDrawings and specifications defining the approved design requirements for the part.View more
Authorised Engineering Change DocumentsRecords of approved changes to design or process specifications.View more
Engineering ApprovalCustomer approval where full PPAP submission is not required.View more
DFMEAIdentifies and mitigates potential failures related to part design.View more
Process Flow DiagramVisual map of the manufacturing process from start to finish.View more
PFMEAIdentifies and mitigates potential failures within the manufacturing process.View more
Control PlanDefines controls used to ensure consistent product and process quality.View more
Measurement System Analysis (MSA)Verifies accuracy and reliability of measurement and inspection systems.View more
Dimensional ResultsConfirms all part dimensions meet design specifications.View more
Material / Performance Test RecordsEvidence that materials and parts meet required specifications.View more
Initial Process StudiesDemonstrates statistical process capability during initial production.View more
Qualified Laboratory DocumentationConfirms testing labs meet customer and industry requirements.View more
Appearance Approval Report (AAR)Approval for parts where visual appearance is critical.View more
Sample Production PartsPhysical parts submitted for customer validation and approval.View more
Master SampleRetained reference sample defining acceptable product characteristics.View more
Checking AidsGauges and fixtures used to verify product conformity.View more
Customer-Specific RequirementsAdditional OEM requirements beyond standard AIAG PPAP elements.View more

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