Sep 18/24

4 Standards Tier 1 Suppliers to the Automotive Industry Must Meet

 

Original equipment manufacturers of automotive parts is a $36 billion industry. They are a vital player in automaking, but tier-1 parts suppliers must meet very arduous standards to retain contracts.

This article covers the main standards that tier-1 suppliers to the automotive industry must meet. Keep reading to find out what they are and the role they play in ensuring component quality and integrity throughout the industry.

What Is a Tier 1 Automotive Supplier?

Tier 1 automotive suppliers make parts, components, and systems directly to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). OEMs are companies that design, manufacture, and sell vehicles under their brand names.

They are distinct from “aftermarket suppliers.” The latter make parts that are meant to mimic the design, function, and appearance of OEM parts but do not have that designation.

For this reason, OEMs set specific standards to ensure quality in the design and function of every component. Tier 1 automotive suppliers must meet these standards.

Four Standards for Tier 1 Suppliers to the Automotive Industry

Depending on the OEM, there can be any number of standards related to tier-1 automotive parts. However, they can be condensed into four main categories.

1. General Quality Management Standards

These standards provide a framework for ensuring that products consistently meet any regulatory and quality requirements. They require manufacturers to have policies that ensure quality control and provide risk management. These also require ongoing reviews and updates to make improvements.

These standards act as a foundational standard for quality management systems. They ensure that the operational processes of tier 1 suppliers to the automotive industry are as efficient and reliable as possible.

2. Automotive Quality Management Standards

These automotive industry standards drill down into specific requirements related to parts production. This entails policies for continuous improvement and defect prevention. They often include policies for reducing waste in the supply chain.

3. Environmental Management System Standards

These standards set the framework for policies that ensure companies are minimizing their environmental impact. They focus on energy efficiency and waste reduction.

As well as, also ensure automotive supplier compliance with industry regulations related to the environment and limit or reduce emissions. They also require companies to regularly review their sustainability practices and standards and to make improvements where possible.

4. Functional Safety Standards

A final set of standards required by OEMs relates to functional safety in the automotive sector. They provide guidelines for components that relate to electrical systems in vehicles.

These extend to those that affect automated driving or safety functions. These include steering, braking, and engine control, as well as features like pedestrian detection or blind-spot monitoring.

These standards require tier-1 supplies to identify potential hazards and assess risks. They must implement appropriate safety measures in the design and development of these components.

With the speed with which innovations in auto technology are advancing, it is easy to see how this is an ongoing endeavor. Suppliers must regularly reevaluate their policies to ensure compliance with functional safety standards.

Learn More About Tier 1 Parts Supplier Requirements

Tier 1 suppliers to the automotive industry must meet extremely high standards. However, these translate to vehicles that are safer and longer-lasting for consumers.

At Mayco International, we provide Tier 1 automotive components for every phase of interior and exterior systems. We are headquartered in Michigan but have affiliates throughout the world. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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