This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the airbag control module (ACM) on the 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, including proper battery isolation and system reset procedures.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Airbag control module (ACM) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Module mounting fasteners (if corroded) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiring harness connector seals (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all vehicle systems and remove the key fob from the cabin
3. Open the driver's door to maintain an alternate path for electrical grounding
4. Verify no airbag warning lights were illuminated prior to this service (document pre-existing conditions)
5. Photograph all connector positions and wire routing before disassembly
6. Ensure the replacement airbag control module is the correct part number for this specific vehicle configuration
7. Connect the anti-static wrist strap to an unpainted metal vehicle ground point

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect 12V battery
   Locate the 12V auxiliary battery in the front compartment. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. Isolate both cables away from battery posts. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to fully discharge before proceeding.
   ⚠️Failure to wait 10 minutes can result in airbag deployment during service, causing serious injury.
2. 2

   Remove center console trim panels
   The airbag control module on the Rivian EDV 500 is typically located under the center console area between the front seats. Use trim panel removal tools to carefully pry and release the lower center console trim panels. Start from the rear of the console and work forward. Remove any fasteners securing the trim panels and disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports or climate controls as needed.
   ⚠Trim clips break easily. Apply gentle, even pressure when removing panels.
3. 3

   Access airbag control module mounting area
   With the lower console trim removed, locate the airbag control module bracket. It will be mounted to the vehicle floor pan, typically with a metal bracket secured by Torx or hex bolts. The module will have multiple electrical connectors attached (typically 2-4 large multi-pin connectors with yellow or orange safety locks).
   ℹ️Take photographs of all connector orientations and wire routing for reference during installation.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag module electrical connectors
   Working on one connector at a time, release the yellow or orange safety lock tabs by pressing or sliding them according to their design. Once the safety lock is released, depress the primary connector release tab and carefully pull the connector straight away from the module. Do not twist or bend connectors. Label each connector with tape indicating its position if not already clearly marked. Repeat for all connectors attached to the module.
   ⚠️Verify 12V battery has been disconnected for at least 10 minutes before touching any airbag connectors.
   ⚠Connector pins are fragile. Pull only on the connector body, never on wires.
5. 5

   Remove airbag control module mounting fasteners
   Remove the fasteners securing the airbag control module bracket to the vehicle floor. These are typically T30 Torx bolts or 10mm hex bolts. Keep all hardware organized for reinstallation. Note the orientation of any ground straps or washers.
6. 6

   Remove airbag control module
   Carefully lift the airbag control module and bracket assembly out of the vehicle. Handle the module by its mounting bracket edges only, avoiding contact with the connector pins or circuit board areas. Place the old module on an anti-static surface or in an anti-static bag immediately.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting area and connectors
   Examine the vehicle-side connectors for any signs of corrosion, damage, bent pins, or moisture intrusion. Check the mounting area for any debris, water damage, or structural issues. Clean the mounting surface with electrical contact cleaner if necessary. Verify all connector seals are intact on the vehicle harness side.
8. 8

   Prepare new airbag control module
   Remove the new airbag control module from its packaging, handling it only by the mounting bracket while wearing your anti-static wrist strap. Verify the part number matches the original module and is correct for this vehicle. Compare the connector arrangement to ensure compatibility. Do not remove any protective covers from connectors until ready to install.
9. 9

   Install new airbag control module
   Position the new airbag control module and bracket assembly into the mounting location, ensuring proper orientation. Thread the mounting fasteners by hand first to ensure correct alignment. Tighten the mounting fasteners evenly in a cross pattern to secure the module firmly to the floor pan. Ensure any ground straps are properly positioned under fastener heads.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Working with one connector at a time, align the connector with its corresponding port on the airbag control module. Push the connector straight onto the module until you hear or feel a positive click indicating the primary lock is engaged. Then slide or press the yellow/orange secondary safety lock into its locked position. Verify each connector is fully seated and locked. Gently tug on each connector to confirm it is secure.
11. 11

    Verify installation and wire routing
    Compare your installation to the photographs taken during disassembly. Ensure all wiring is routed correctly and not pinched, stretched, or contacting sharp edges. Verify no connectors are crossed or forced into incorrect positions. Check that the module is solidly mounted with no movement.
12. 12

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery, positive terminal first, then negative terminal. Ensure both connections are clean and tight. Do not start or power on the vehicle yet.
13. 13

    Program and configure airbag control module
    Connect the Rivian diagnostic scan tool to the vehicle's OBD-II port. Power on the vehicle to accessory mode (do not drive). Access the airbag control module programming function. Follow the scan tool prompts to program the new module with the vehicle VIN and configure it for the specific airbag system components installed on this vehicle. This process typically takes 5-15 minutes and must complete without interruption.
    ⚠️An unprogrammed or incorrectly programmed airbag module will not deploy airbags in a collision. Verify successful programming completion before returning vehicle to service.
    ⚠Do not disconnect battery or scan tool during programming. Loss of power during programming can permanently damage the module.
14. 14

    Clear fault codes and perform system test
    After successful programming, use the scan tool to clear any stored airbag fault codes. Perform a complete airbag system test using the scan tool's diagnostic functions. This should include communication verification with all airbag sensors, pretensioners, and airbag modules. Verify all components respond correctly and no fault codes are present.
15. 15

    Verify airbag warning light operation
    Turn the vehicle to the ON position (ready to drive). Observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster. The light should illuminate briefly during the startup self-test (typically 3-6 seconds) and then extinguish. If the light remains illuminated or flashes, do not return the vehicle to service. Retrieve and diagnose fault codes.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall center console trim panels in reverse order of removal, ensuring all clips are properly aligned before applying pressure
2. Reconnect any electrical connectors for console-mounted components (USB ports, climate controls)
3. Verify all trim panels are securely fastened with no gaps or loose areas
4. Test all console-mounted switches and controls for proper operation

Verification

• Confirm the airbag warning light performs a normal self-test (illuminates briefly at startup, then extinguishes)
• Use the diagnostic scan tool to verify no active or pending airbag fault codes are present
• Verify scan tool shows successful communication with the airbag control module and all connected components
• Confirm the module is securely mounted with no movement or vibration
• Document the new module part number, programming date, and verification results in service records
• Perform a test drive and verify the airbag warning light does not illuminate during normal operation
• CRITICAL: If the airbag warning light remains on or any fault codes are present, the vehicle is NOT safe to drive. Do not return to service until all issues are resolved and verified

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