Airbag - Passenger

This procedure involves replacing the passenger-side airbag module in a 2022 Rivian EDV 500, including proper disarming of the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and calibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Airbag module retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Dashboard trim clips (replace any broken during removal) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure it is in Park mode with parking brake engaged
2. Put vehicle into Service Mode using the center display: Settings > Service > Service Mode
3. Verify high-voltage system status indicator shows 'Safe' on the display
4. Turn off all vehicle systems and remove the key fob from the cabin
5. Open the front hood and locate the 12V battery in the front compartment
6. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the 12V battery, then disconnect the positive (+) terminal
7. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes to allow all SRS capacitors to fully discharge
8. Put on anti-static wrist strap and ground it to a bare metal chassis point
9. Use the diagnostic scan tool to document all current SRS fault codes before beginning disassembly
10. Place protective covering over the dashboard and windshield to prevent scratches

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove glove box assembly
   Open the glove box fully. Remove the two screws securing the glove box door at the hinge points using a T25 Torx bit. Disconnect the glove box lighting connector if equipped. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the stops and fully lower it. Remove the four screws securing the glove box assembly to the dashboard and carefully pull it out to access the area behind.
2. 2

   Remove upper dashboard trim panel
   Starting at the passenger side, use trim removal tools to carefully pry up the upper dashboard trim panel above the passenger airbag location. Work slowly around the perimeter to release all clips. There are typically 8-10 clips securing this panel. Lift the panel up and away from the dashboard, noting the location of any wire routing clips. Set the panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Disconnect airbag electrical connector
   Locate the yellow airbag connector at the back of the passenger airbag module. This connector has a safety locking mechanism. Slide the red or orange safety slider fully to the unlocked position, then press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out. Do NOT pull on the wires. Visually inspect the connector pins for any damage or corrosion.
4. 4

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   Locate the airbag module mounting points, typically consisting of 4 screws or bolts accessed from behind the dashboard. These are commonly T30 Torx fasteners or 8mm bolts. Remove all mounting fasteners completely and set them aside in a container. Note the location and orientation of any brackets or washers for reassembly.
5. 5

   Remove passenger airbag module
   With all fasteners removed, carefully support the airbag module from behind and pull it straight back through the dashboard opening. The module may be larger than expected and require careful maneuvering. Once free, immediately place it on a clean, flat work surface with the airbag deployment side facing UP. Never place the airbag face-down or stack anything on top of it.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting area and wiring
   Thoroughly inspect the airbag mounting area in the dashboard for any damage, loose brackets, or structural issues that may have caused the airbag replacement need. Check all wiring for chafing, pinching, or damage. Use a multimeter to verify there is no continuity to ground on the airbag harness connector (with it disconnected). Inspect the connector for corrosion or bent pins.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove the new airbag module from its packaging only when ready to install. Keep it in the original protective packaging until this moment. Verify the part number matches the replacement requirement for your specific vehicle. Inspect the new module for any shipping damage. Check that the electrical connector is clean and the locking mechanism functions properly.
8. 8

   Install new airbag module
   Carefully position the new airbag module into the dashboard opening, ensuring all mounting holes align properly. The module should fit flush without forcing. Verify no wiring is pinched or routed incorrectly. Install all mounting fasteners finger-tight first, then tighten in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating. Since no torque specifications are provided in the database, tighten securely but do not over-torque the plastic mounting points.
9. 9

   Connect airbag electrical connector
   Route the yellow airbag connector to the new module, ensuring no sharp bends or pinch points in the wiring. Align the connector carefully and push it straight onto the airbag module connector until it clicks into place. Slide the safety lock (red or orange slider) fully into the locked position. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall dashboard trim and glove box
    Reinstall the upper dashboard trim panel by aligning all clips and pressing firmly around the perimeter until all clips engage. Verify the panel sits flush with no gaps. Reinstall the glove box assembly by reversing the removal procedure: position it in place, install the four mounting screws, reconnect the lighting connector if equipped, and install the glove box door screws at the hinges.
11. 11

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front compartment and reconnect the 12V battery. Connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal. Ensure both connections are clean and tight. Do not start the vehicle yet.
12. 12

    Perform SRS system scan and calibration
    Connect the diagnostic scan tool to the vehicle's OBD-II port. Turn the vehicle to accessory mode (do not start drive mode yet). Access the SRS system module and perform a complete system scan. Clear all stored fault codes related to the passenger airbag. Follow the scan tool prompts to perform SRS system calibration and initialization. This step is CRITICAL and must be completed successfully before the vehicle can be driven safely.

Reassembly

1. Verify all dashboard trim panels are securely fastened with no rattles or gaps
2. Confirm the glove box operates smoothly and all mounting points are secure
3. Remove all protective coverings from the interior
4. Exit Service Mode through the vehicle settings menu

Verification

• With the scan tool connected, verify the SRS system shows no active fault codes and all modules communicate properly
• Turn the vehicle to accessory mode and verify the SRS warning light on the instrument cluster illuminates briefly during self-test (approximately 6 seconds) then extinguishes completely
• If the SRS light stays illuminated or flashes, do NOT drive the vehicle - repeat the calibration procedure or seek professional service
• Perform a visual inspection to ensure the passenger airbag cover area sits flush and properly aligned in the dashboard
• Gently press on the airbag cover area to ensure it is securely mounted with no excessive movement
• Test all functions in the passenger area including glove box operation, climate controls, and any affected switches
• Document the repair with date, mileage, and new airbag module part number for vehicle service records
• Perform a short test drive and re-verify the SRS warning light remains off after several key cycles

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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