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CAR (Corrective Action Report)

A formal record describing a non-conformance, its root cause, and the actions taken to resolve it.

Definition and context

A Corrective Action Report (CAR) documents the life cycle of an issue from discovery to verification. It gives customers assurance that the problem has been investigated and contained.

Some organizations use CAR to mean Corrective Action Request. This page uses the report meaning; confirm the expansion used in your own procedure.

Core CAR components

CARs typically include a problem statement, containment actions, investigative findings, corrective actions, preventive actions, and validation evidence.

Referencing updated Standard Operating Procedures shows how the organisation institutionalised the learning.

CARs and collaboration

Vendors use CARs to maintain transparency with their buyers. Sharing interim updates maintains trust, especially when the issue affects delivery timelines or safety.

Delays in implementing corrective actions can reduce On-Time In-Full performance and trigger customer penalties.

Where this term fits in the workflow

CAR (Corrective Action Report) is usually shown in the corrective action and containment.

Terms for stopping defects fast, documenting nonconformance, and proving corrective action is complete.

What is KaizenQ?

KaizenQ helps factory teams record inspection results, defect photos, and notes in one report shared with the office.

Learn more
KaizenQ inspection report preview

Key takeaways

  • CARs provide a chronological record of issue resolution.
  • Clear CARs reassure customers that systemic risks are addressed.
  • Digital CARs accelerate collaboration between buyers and suppliers.

Compare with related terms

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