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