The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) quality documentation system is designed to verify a manufacturer’s ability to produce automotive parts. One of five submission levels, Level 3 includes a Part Submission Warrant (PSW), product samples and complete supporting data.

PPAP Manual

Procedures and requirements for PPAP are provided in detail in the PPAP manual published by the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). Requirements for a Level 3 submission are extensive and include design records, process flow diagrams, qualified laboratory documentation and measurement system analysis studies.

Software Tools

Multiple types of software can help you with the PPAP submission process. For example, you can purchase fill-in-the-blank Excel templates of PPAP submission forms, or full software packages that let you manage part characteristics for complete manufacturing and quality compliance.

Length of Approval

Your PPAP submission remains valid until you make a design or process change to a part or until the part has been out of production for 12 months. You must notify your distributors and customers before implementing any changes to parts.