Returning parts to the Warranty Parts Center (WPC) helps GM engineers, suppliers and others quality management personnel better understand and quickly resolve product issues. Technicians can help in identifying an issue and determining the root cause by properly documenting and marking the specific parts replaced at the dealership. (Fig. 5)
Fig. 5
Identifying Parts
Anytime replaced parts are returned to the WPC, indicate the failed par by clearly marking it. A paint pen is a good way to mark or circle the area of concern on a part, such as a leak, premature wear. Without marking a failed part, it can be difficult to identify the concern. For example, if replace a bank of lifters are replaced on a V8 engine, the eight lifters would be returned to the WPC. It’s more efficient in the parts analysis process to indicate the suspect lifter.
The same issue applies to fuel injectors. If the injectors are replaced on an entire rail, it’s necessary to indicate which injector was faulty. Identifying parts helps the engineering team and suppliers root cause and determine the failure of the part, aiding in the continuous improvement of all components and systems. This is especially important when submitting a Field Product Report (FPR).
For more information about shipping parts to the WPC, refer to Bulletin #99-00-89-019Z, section F— Parts Preparation and new WPC Parts Return Evaluation process.
Document the Details
Repair order, or job card, information is critical to analyzing product issues as well. The more detail that is included, the better the results. Documentation should include information about the customer concern as well as all technician comments regarding the root cause of failure, including document ID numbers, test results, diagnostic trouble codes, TAC case number, assembly serial numbers, measurements, and other data.
Any additional details that can help root cause an issue also should be provided, such as any characteristics or symptoms of the fault or any operating conditions that were observed when the fault occurred. This information may include scan tool data snapshot information, weather, temperature and altitude.
Also attach a scan tool data printout/snapshot, diagnostic worksheets and all substantiating service documents with the job card that is returned with the part. Be sure to include TAC and/or PQC case numbers. Documentation regarding GM representative involvement should be included as well.
Additional WPC information about returning parts, including shipping hazardous materials, can be found in Bulletins #99-00-89-019 and #24-NA-040.
– Thanks to Bryan Salisbury
