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ISIR (Initial Sample Inspection Report)

ISIR (Initial Sample Inspection Report) is the German automotive (VDA) equivalent of PPAP, documenting first-article inspection results for a new or changed part and submitted for customer approval before serial production begins.

ISIR was developed by the Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) - the German Automotive Industry Association - and is the standard sample submission process used by European automotive OEMs (VW, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, etc.) and their tier-1 suppliers.

An ISIR submission typically contains: dimensional inspection report (all features per drawing), material certificates, process capability data (Ppk/Cpk), surface treatment certifications, performance test results (where applicable), and a covering ISIR form signed by quality responsible.

ISIR and PPAP cover the same intent - proving a supplier can produce conforming parts - but the formats and detailed evidence requirements differ. ISIR is closer to AS9102 in spirit (heavy focus on dimensional verification of the actual part) while PPAP demands broader process evidence.

ISIR is required at: new part launch, design change (revision update), tooling change, process change, supplier location change, or after extended production interruption. Many global suppliers maintain both ISIR and PPAP capability since automotive customers in different regions require different formats.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is ISIR the same as PPAP?
No. Both serve the same purpose (qualifying a supplier for serial production) but follow different documentation standards. ISIR is German VDA; PPAP is North American AIAG. PPAP requires more process evidence; ISIR focuses heavily on dimensional verification.
Which OEMs require ISIR?
Primarily European OEMs in the VDA member group: VW, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, and their tier-1 suppliers. North American OEMs (GM, Ford, Stellantis) use PPAP.
Can one document satisfy both ISIR and PPAP?
Sometimes. If a supplier provides a complete PPAP Level 3 package, it usually contains all evidence needed for an ISIR. The reverse is less common - ISIR alone typically lacks the PFMEA, control plan, and MSA data PPAP requires.

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