The Automotive Quality Core Tools are the building blocks of an effective quality management system. They include Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), Control Plan (CP), Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).

Over 30 years ago, AIAG collaborated with the domestic automotive manufacturers to develop common quality methods and tools, which became known as the Quality Core Tools. The tools proved so useful that they were adopted by other manufacturing sectors, including aerospace, defense, medical, and pharmaceutical.

Today, most automotive manufacturers and suppliers require use of one or more of the Core Tools. Therefore, organizations whose employees have mastered the Core Tool processes can assure their customers that the industry’s most qualified individuals are working on their behalf, and that IATF 16949 and applicable quality reference manual requirements will be met without fail.

Use the links below to begin your Core Tools journey!

Free Resources

Completing our free self-assessment is the first step in mastering the Automotive Quality Core Tools. This online survey tests basic competency in each of the Core Tools to help evaluate your current understanding of APQP/PPAP, FMEA, MSA and SPC, and determine opportunities for additional training.

Need to brush up on the basics? Check out our free Core Tools Key Terms document to get up to speed before taking the self-assessment!

This e-learning course will provide a brief summary of the AIAG Core Tools APQP, PPAP, FMEA, SPC, and MSA. The primary focus will be to create awareness of the AIAG Core Tools, with an overview of how they can help your organization in its journey through the never ending quest for continual improvement.

This Basic level course will provide participants with a better understanding of how the automotive industry Core Tools (e.g. APQP/Control Plan, FMEA, MSA, SPC and PPAP) work together to assure quality. Utilizing a case study approach, the course highlights key issues to address while utilizing the core tools to successfully develop and launch a new product.

Program Management: Quality Team - (248) 358-3570