PPAP Fundamentals and First Article Inspection for North American Automotive Standards
This one-day course provides a practical and comprehensive introduction to the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) and its integration with First Article Inspection (FAI), specifically tailored for North American automotive standards. Participants will learn how PPAP ensures product and process quality and how FAI supports early validation of design and manufacturing processes.
Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, you will gain insights into PPAP submission levels, documentation requirements, and customer-specific expectations from major OEMs in the USA and Canada. The training emphasizes compliance with IATF 16949 and AIAG guidelines, equipping you with the knowledge to confidently manage PPAP and FAI in your projects.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the purpose and structure of PPAP and its role in quality assurance.
- Perform First Article Inspection and integrate results into PPAP submissions.
- Identify and fulfill documentation requirements for PPAP Level 1–5 submissions.
- Apply IATF 16949 and AIAG guidelines in customer projects.
- Address customer-specific requirements for North American OEMs.
This course is ideal for managers and specialists who use the instrument for series production:
- Quality managers and engineers.
- Supplier quality specialists.
- Project managers in automotive manufacturing.
- Professionals responsible for PPAP submissions and compliance.
- PPAP/PPF Basics
- PPAP/PPF Process Requirements
- Customer notification and receivables for submission to the customer
- Verification levels of a PPAP template at the customer and submission status
- Record retention
- Comparison PPAP/PPF
The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is a critical quality assurance tool in the automotive industry, ensuring that production processes consistently meet customer requirements. This course introduces the PPAP framework as defined by the AIAG reference manual, covering its purpose, structure, and the 18 essential elements required for successful submission. You will learn how PPAP fits into the broader APQP process and why it is essential for compliance with IATF 16949.
In addition to PPAP fundamentals, the training integrates First Article Inspection (FAI) principles, demonstrating how FAI complements PPAP during prototype and pre-launch phases. Participants will explore how FAI data strengthens PPAP submissions by validating dimensional and material compliance, reducing risk, and improving customer confidence.
The course also addresses North American OEM-specific requirements. You will learn how to navigate customer-specific expectations and avoid common pitfalls that lead to delays or rejections. Practical exercises and case studies will help you apply these concepts in real-world scenarios, ensuring you leave with actionable skills.
Finally, the training provides a comparison between PPAP and VDA PPA (used in Europe), giving you a global perspective while focusing on the AIAG-based approach required in the USA and Canada. By the end of the course, you will be equipped to manage PPAP submissions effectively, integrate FAI processes, and deliver high-quality results in the automotive supply chain.
- Gain in-depth knowledge of PPAP fundamentals and FAI integration.
- Learn to apply AIAG PPAP requirements for North American automotive standards.
- Understand customer-specific requirements from major OEMs.
- Reduce risk of non-conformance through effective FAI and PPAP implementation.
- Earn a TÜV SÜD Academy Certificate of Participation.
Instructor-led training in a virtual classroom. This means the course is Live Online. Participants will learn through online teaching. Lectures, case studies, group exercises, discussions, problem solving, examples with explanation, assignments and/or quizzes happen in the virtual classroom training. Participants need to connect to the class from any internet accessible location. Each module is delivered live using webinar technology, creating a virtual classroom learning environment. Live sessions provide you with direct access to the trainer so you can ask questions, understand complex concepts and share ideas with peers. Webcam and microphone are REQUIRED to interact with the instructor and/or other participants.
The course content and structure are designed by the domain experts from TÜV SÜD.
With immense experience and knowledge in the relevant standards, our team of product specialists and technical experts at TÜV SÜD, developed the course content based on current business landscape and market requirements.
Certificate of participation from the TÜV SÜD Academy
Specialist lecturers from the TÜV SÜD Academy with a sound professional background in the automotive industry.