What is APQP? Definition

In practice

APQP timing is tracked against customer program gates. Principals serving automotive programs run APQP inside their IATF 16949 quality system.

PPAP: PPAP is the Production Part Approval Process, the AIAG method automotive suppliers use to prove a production process makes parts that meet every requirement at the quoted rate. A submission can include up to 18 elements, such as dimensional results, material certs, PFMEA, and control plan. Level 3 is the default.
IATF 16949: IATF 16949 is the quality management system standard for automotive production and service part suppliers, published by the International Automotive Task Force. It builds on ISO 9001 and requires core tools such as APQP, PPAP, FMEA, MSA, and SPC, plus each OEM's customer-specific requirements.
Tier 1: Tier 1 is the supplier level that sells components or systems directly to an OEM, such as a seat, brake, or wiring harness maker selling to an automaker. Tier 1 suppliers manage their own sub-tier suppliers and carry OEM quality requirements down to them.

Questions about your part?

Build it here for an instant estimate and DFM check, or talk to a rep who can explain the tradeoffs.