I think we've all lost sight of the original post. So, let me try and get it back on track.
I've run into exactly the same thing; Ford mandated supplier information all the way down the chain (in this case I am Tier III, and info went all the way down to Tier V).
To give one specific example (steel): when I submitted by PPAP to the Tier II, I included a Lvl 3 PPAP submission from my steel supplier (Tier IV), and required that the original mill certification (Tier V) AND material analysis from a registered lab accompany that PPAP.
I also requested by supplier create an IMDS entry for the specific grade of material purchased.
The above steps were 'rolled out' to all our suppliers; and ALL were able to comply (with a little bit of coaxing and training on IMDS for some). Now, it's an easy task; when I am preparing my IMDS submission to the Tier I or II, I already have all the supplier info ready for me, and I just have to link it all up.....an hours work at most (on a good day, if the system isn't too busy).
Is it necessary? Yes, because the customer wants it.....not that there is (yet) any governmental requirement for NA vehicles to comply.
Spend a little bit of time preparing the groundwork for this task, and in the long run you'll find it pays off.