The Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) has released a set of new guidelines that aim at improving quality of automotive parts and lowering warranty claims and recalls. The automotive industry spent almost $12.8 billion in warranty claims in 2006, according to Warranty Week. AIAG has specified standard audit requirements for special processes — heat treat, coatings and platings because OEMs and suppliers are experiencing quality issues in these areas which are impacting product performance on parts such as seat belts and steering gears, as well as interior and exterior painted parts. Developed by automotive manufacturers and suppliers, the guidelines are written for automotive suppliers or any organization performing these processes. Completion of coating, heat treat and plating assessments, as detailed in the guidelines, will assist companies in meeting ISO 9001:2000, ISO/TS 16949:2002 and OEM customer specific requirements related to internal audit and effectiveness of the organization's manufacturing special processes. The Coatings System Assessment; Heat Treat System Assessment, Second Edition; and Plating System Assessment are available for purchase from AIAG by visiting its Web site or calling customer service at (248) 358-3003. |
