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Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.) Inspection Checklist and Template

Exterior accessories, such as mirrors and spoilers, play a crucial role in enhancing the appearance and functionality of vehicles. Quality and user experience are paramount when selecting these products, as they directly impact safety and overall satisfaction. Many of these accessories are manufactured in Asian countries known for their expertise in automotive production, including China, Japan, and South Korea. However, sourcing from Asia can pose potential quality risks. To mitigate these risks, thorough Quality Control and Due Diligence are essential. By ensuring rigorous inspections and testing, buyers can confidently select high-quality exterior accessories that meet their standards and provide a superior user experience.

Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.) Inspection

What to look for when inspecting Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.)?

Surface check
Material check
Color match check
Fitment check
Scratch/dent check
Crack check
Mounting hardware check
Logo/branding check
Packaging integrity check
Function check

32+ Checkpoints for inspection used by top retailers.

Step-by-step instructions for performance and mechanical tests

99.7% fully satisfied customer with over 200+ clients

Nancy Wan

Senior Supervisor at QCADVISOR, based in Chongqing, China. Nancy has deep expertise in toys and hardware categories, providing detailed and accurate inspection standards. Her hands-on experience ensures quality benchmarks reflect current manufacturing realities, effectively minimizing risks during production.

General Inspection Process

Check for any visible damage or scratches on the exterior accessories.
Ensure that all mounting brackets and hardware are securely attached.
Verify that the accessories are properly aligned and symmetrical.
Inspect the mirrors for any cracks or chips in the glass.
Check the functionality of the mirrors by adjusting them in different positions.
Ensure that the mirrors provide a clear and unobstructed view.
Verify that the spoilers are securely attached and not loose.
Check for any signs of rust or corrosion on the exterior accessories.
Inspect the paint finish for any imperfections or color discrepancies.
Ensure that all electrical connections for features like heated mirrors are functioning properly.
Verify that any LED lights on the accessories are working correctly.
Check for any loose or damaged wiring on the accessories.
Inspect any moving parts, such as adjustable spoilers, for smooth operation.
Ensure that any decals or logos on the accessories are properly applied and not peeling.
Verify that any additional features, such as turn signal indicators, are functioning correctly.
Check for any signs of wear or fading on the exterior accessories.
Inspect any rubber or gasket seals for damage or deterioration.
Ensure that the accessories are securely fastened and do not rattle or vibrate.
Verify that any adjustable features, such as mirror tilt or spoiler angle, can be easily adjusted.
Check for any missing or damaged parts, such as mounting clips or screws.

Compliance & Lab Standards for Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.)

When importing Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.) from suppliers in China, Asia, or other global regions, making sure your products meet the right compliance standards and lab testing requirements is critical. Failing to comply with U.S., EU, or international regulations can result in customs delays, product recalls, or serious damage to your brand reputation. As your boutique QC partner, we help you think ahead.

Below are the key mandatory and recommended standards to keep your shipments compliant, safe, and trusted.

United States

Mandatory

FMVSS 111: Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for rearview mirrors.
FMVSS 205: Standard for glazing materials used in exterior accessories.
EPA Regulations: Compliance with environmental protection standards for materials and emissions.

Recommended

ASTM D3359: Standard for adhesion testing of coatings.
SAE J1757: Standard for luminance and color uniformity for displays relevant to mirrors.
ISO 9227: Corrosion tests in artificial atmospheres for metal components.

European Union

Mandatory

ECE R46: Regulation for rearview mirrors, including visibility and durability.
REACH: Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals compliance.
RoHS Directive: Restriction of Hazardous Substances compliance.

Recommended

ISO 9001: Quality management systems certification.
EN 12464-1: Standard for lighting and visibility in automotive parts.
ISO 16750: Environmental conditions and testing for electrical automotive parts.

United Kingdom

Mandatory

UKCA Marking: Compliance with UK Conformity Assessed marking for mirrors and spoilers.
UNECE Regulation 46: Compliance for rearview mirrors.
REACH UK: Compliance with UK-specific chemical safety standards.

Recommended

BS 8600: Standard for automotive components durability testing.
BSI PAS 2060: Carbon neutrality for sustainable manufacturing processes.
ISO 14001: Environmental management systems certification.

Canada

Mandatory

CMVSS 111: Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for mirrors.
SOR/2014-254: Regulations on substances for environmental compliance.

Recommended

CSA D500-16: Standard for automotive materials testing.
CAN/CSA-Z107.58: Standard for automotive sound level measurements.
ISO 17025: General requirements for testing and calibration laboratories.

Australia

Mandatory

ADR 14/02: Australian Design Rule for rearview mirrors.
ACL 2010: Compliance with the Australian Consumer Law for product safety.

Recommended

AS 1231: Standard for corrosion testing of metals.
ISO 22301: Business continuity management for risk assessment.
AS/NZS ISO 9001: Quality management system certification.

Gulf Countries

Mandatory

GSO 159: Standard for rearview mirrors in vehicles.
SASO Standards: Compliance with Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization regulations.

Recommended

ISO 31000: Risk management guidelines for importers.
GSO 42: Standard for vehicle components and safety.
ISO 45001: Occupational health and safety management systems.

Singapore

Mandatory

LTA Vehicle Regulations: Compliance with Land Transport Authority standards for mirrors and accessories.
Environmental Protection and Management Act: Compliance with chemical and emissions regulations.

Recommended

SS 586: Hazard communication for hazardous substances.
ISO 9001: Quality management systems certification.
SS 554: Code of practice for indoor air quality, relevant for manufacturing environments.

Hong Kong

Mandatory

Road Traffic (Construction and Maintenance of Vehicles) Regulations: Compliance for mirrors and exterior accessories.
Air Pollution Control Ordinance: Compliance with emissions and material standards.

Recommended

ISO 9001: Certification for quality management systems.
HKQAA 5S Model: Workplace organization and efficiency.
ISO 26000: Guidance on social responsibility for manufacturers.

Need more details on Exterior Accessories (Mirrors, Spoilers, etc.) Checklist?

What is inside this checklist

Mirror functionality test
Spoiler fitment test
Exterior accessory durability test
Mirror adjustment test
Spoiler installation test

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