Claudiu-Alexandru Covaci1, Aurel Mihail Titu2,3
Abstract: This study examines the impact of process and supplier audits on product reliability in the automotive industry. Through comprehensive analysis of industry practices and case studies, the research demonstrates that systematic auditing significantly enhances quality control and reduces defect rates. The paper highlights how compliance with key standards like IATF 16949 and VDA 6.3, combined with regular audit cycles, contributes to improved manufacturing outcomes and supply chain performance. Findings reveal a direct correlation between audit frequency and product reliability, with manufacturers implementing frequent audits experiencing up to 25% fewer defects and 30% reduction in recall incidents. The study explores various audit methodologies, including risk-based approaches and real-time monitoring systems, showing their effectiveness in early problem detection and prevention. Additionally, the research emphasizes the importance of supplier collaboration, demonstrating how transparent audit processes foster accountability and continuous improvement throughout the supply chain. The paper concludes that well-structured audit programs serve as both quality assurance tools and strategic assets, enabling automotive companies to maintain high reliability standards while adapting to industry innovations. Recommendations include further investigation into digital audit technologies and their potential to optimize quality management systems in an increasingly complex automotive landscape.
Keywords: audits, reliability, audit frequency, compliance, defect reduction.
DOI 10.56082/annalsarscieco.2024.1.22
1National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Faculty of Industrial Engineering and Robotics, Splaiul Independenţei no. 313, 6th District, Bucharest, Romania, ORCID 0009-0003-2803-0295, covaci_claudiu99@yahoo.com
2Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, Sibiu, Romania, Corresponding author, ORCID 0000-0002-0054-6535, mihail.titu@ulbsibiu.ro
3Academy of Romanian Scientists, 3 Ilfov Street, Bucharest, Romania
PUBLISHED in Annals Academy of Romanian Scientists Series on Economy, Law and Sociology, Volume 7 no 1, 2024