The automotive industry has a market value of $3 trillion. Over 60 million cars are produced worldwide per year. Cars go through various checks and inspections to ensure that they meet the standards that have been put in place. Substandard products are likely to be recalled.
The safety of drivers and passengers alike is threatened if a car does not meet quality and safety requirements. A lot of resources go into the manufacturing of cars. Recalls affect the finances and the reputation of both the manufacturer and supplier. Let’s take a look at how companies are reducing car recalls by improving on quality.
Maintain Quality
The manufacturing process in the automotive industry is critical. From small car parts such as fasteners for the automotive industry to larger parts such as the battery and car tires, automobile manufacturers place importance on quality.
Abnormalities do occur in the manufacturing of cars. An environment should be created where employees can report problems quickly. There are bound to recall if the cars don’t meet a certain standard. By identifying issues and working on resolving them, quality is assured.
Strong Ties between OEMs and Suppliers
The relationship between Original Equipment Manufacturers and Suppliers is very important in improving quality in the automotive industry. Over the years, we have seen changes in the relationship between OEMs and suppliers.
In the case where one supplier has to handle multiple manufacturers, there is a problem. This may look like one of the best business models for the manufacturer. However, where there is an issue with the supplier, the manufacturers involved are affected.
When OEMs build strong ties with suppliers, they better understand the process involved in production from the supplier’s perspective. That relationship enables OEMs to offer suggestions on improving quality, which in the long run results in an improved manufacturing process.
Solve Problems Fast
During manufacturing, there is a tendency to overlook the root cause of problems. The safety of your buyers should be considered during manufacturing. A thorough inspection should be done to ensure that everything is in place. When an abnormality is found, measures should be implemented to find the root cause of an issue and eliminate the problem.
Practice Quality Planning
Thanks to technology, it has become easier to identify defects and potential causes. Machines within the factory can provide the necessary data needed to identify quality issues. By practicing quality planning, certain abnormalities or defects won’t be repeated, guaranteeing better results.
Efficiency in Process
The time it takes from the production to the customer receiving the car is affected if quality processes are not in place. With abnormalities and inefficiencies come delays in reaching targets. Customer satisfaction is realized when products are delivered in a shorter period. This strengthens the commitment of your customers to your brand.
It is important to note that the automotive industry is a highly competitive one. Hence consistent efficiency puts you a step ahead of your competitors.
Customer Satisfaction
Ensuring quality management results in happy customers. Customer dissatisfaction can destroy the reputation that has been built over the years. By consistently releasing products of good quality, customer trust is retained.
Trust is built over time. However, all it takes is a single error to destroy it. Customers are important to your business, their satisfaction should always be a priority.
Effective Use of Resources
The time and manpower required in the manufacturing process are used effectively. In the long run, manufacturing costs will be reduced. On the other hand, poor use of resources can lead to the waste of materials and an extended amount of time needed for production.
Time is a very important resource in the automotive industry. Hence when measures are put in place to ensure that time is not wasted, it contributes to the project’s success. It also reduces the risk of recalls. Product recalls are probably one of the worst enemies of the automotive industry. Using resources effectively also ensures that your products are not below standard.
The automotive industry keeps growing every year. Upgrades and improvements are being added now more than ever. With the complexity of manufacturing cars comes the risk of abnormalities and defects, which might be overlooked if care is not taken.
Low-quality products do not only affect your hard-earned reputation, but it also results in the waste of resources and materials which in the long run affects your financial strength. The aim is to make profits, not losses. Improving quality ensures that losses are minimized.
