4 ms·

Well, it's either a way to perform a coverup, or a cost savings by not needing to make new tooling with the new part number on it.

• mirkules 12y ago
  A new part number doesn't necessarily mean new tooling. However, you are correct in saying that it is a way to cut cost by not issuing a new part number. A new part number means: - Entirely new release/approval cycle. That means going through design, release and QA stages (QA is extremely expensive in automotive industry). Remember auto industry is not the software industry, there is no "agile" - waterfall is king because once the product is released, it is infinitely more expensive to change it - Recalling old part numbers and shipping new ones - Even the cost of printing new labels and making new packing materials can be non-insignificant That said, a change in part equals a new part number, period. So, this was very likely a coverup AND an improper cost-reduction exercise.
  • bagels 12y ago
    I agree with you. I did happen to notice from pictures that these particular parts have the part number cast on to them, so new tooling may be required.
    • mirkules 12y ago
      Ah yeah, good observation.
• frankydp 12y ago
  Doesnt this mean that the part manufacturer had to be in on the process and that it probably wasnt the first time?