Airbag - Side

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a side-impact airbag module in the 2022 Rivian EDV 500, including proper disconnection of the supplemental restraint system (SRS) and verification of proper operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Side airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification - side specific
• Seat trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Airbag connector retaining clip × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and ensure it is powered off completely
2. Verify the side airbag replacement is necessary and no other SRS system damage exists
3. Ensure you have a new OEM side airbag module specific to the correct side (driver or passenger)
4. Place warning tags on steering wheel and ignition stating 'AIRBAG SYSTEM WORK IN PROGRESS - DO NOT START'
5. Disconnect the 12V battery negative terminal located in the front compartment
6. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes for all SRS system capacitors to fully discharge
7. Document the current state of the vehicle interior with photos for reference during reassembly
8. Ensure the Rivian vehicle is not in any service or transport mode that could affect diagnostics

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the affected seat
   Identify which side airbag requires replacement (driver or passenger seat). If a front seat, move the seat to its full forward position using manual release mechanisms (do not apply power to vehicle). If a second-row seat, ensure adequate access by moving front seats forward.
2. 2

   Remove seat back trim panel
   Locate the trim panel fasteners on the outboard side of the seat back where the side airbag is housed. On Rivian EDV seats, the side airbag is typically integrated into the outboard bolster. Use trim removal tools to carefully release the lower clips first, then work upward. Remove any Torx fasteners (typically T20 or T25) at the base of the trim panel. Gently pull the trim panel away from the seat frame, being careful not to damage the airbag deployment seam or perforation.
3. 3

   Locate and expose airbag module connector
   With the trim panel removed or folded back, locate the side airbag module secured to the seat frame. Identify the yellow SRS connector attached to the airbag module. The connector will have a distinctive yellow color indicating it is part of the supplemental restraint system. Note the routing of the harness for proper reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag module connector
   Carefully locate the connector locking mechanism on the yellow SRS connector. Most Rivian airbag connectors use a sliding lock or squeeze-to-release design. Use the appropriate wire connector release tool if necessary. Gently slide or squeeze the lock and pull the connector straight apart without bending pins. Never pull on the wiring itself. Place a piece of tape over the vehicle-side connector to prevent accidental contact.
   ⚠️Ensure 10 minutes have elapsed since battery disconnection before touching this connector. Accidental deployment can occur if capacitors have not fully discharged.
5. 5

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   Locate the airbag module mounting fasteners, typically 2-4 Torx screws (T25 or T30) securing the module to the seat frame. These are usually accessible from the rear or side of the seat back structure. Carefully remove all mounting fasteners and place them in a secure container. Keep track of any washers or spacers.
6. 6

   Extract the airbag module
   Carefully lift and remove the old airbag module from its mounting location in the seat frame. Handle the module gently and avoid any impact or dropping. Keep the deployment side (the side that faces outward toward the occupant) pointed away from your body and face at all times. Once removed, immediately place the old module on a secure surface with the deployment side facing upward.
   ⚠️Handle the airbag module with extreme care. Even though it should be inert with power disconnected, treat it as if it could deploy at any time.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting location and harness
   Thoroughly inspect the seat frame mounting location for any damage, cracks, or deformation. Check the wiring harness for any cuts, abrasions, or damage. Examine the vehicle-side connector for any bent pins, corrosion, or contamination. If any damage is found to the seat structure or harness, the repair may require additional parts or professional assessment. Clean the mounting surface with isopropyl alcohol if needed.
8. 8

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove the new OEM airbag module from its protective packaging only when ready to install. Inspect the new module to ensure it matches the old unit exactly in terms of connector type, mounting points, and physical dimensions. Verify the part number matches the vehicle specification for the specific seat position. Check that the connector is clean and pins are straight.
9. 9

   Install new airbag module
   Position the new airbag module into the seat frame mounting location, ensuring proper orientation. The deployment side must face outward toward where the occupant sits. Align all mounting holes with the seat frame. Install the mounting fasteners (Torx screws) and tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the module. Tighten screws firmly but do not overtighten, as this may damage the module housing or seat frame.
10. 10

    Connect airbag module connector
    Remove the protective tape from the vehicle-side connector. Carefully align the yellow SRS connectors and push them together firmly until you hear and feel a positive click. Ensure the connector locking mechanism fully engages. Give the connector a gentle pull test to verify it is locked. Route the harness as originally positioned, ensuring no pinch points or sharp bends.
11. 11

    Reinstall seat trim panel
    Position the seat back trim panel back over the airbag module and seat frame. Ensure the airbag deployment seam or perforation in the trim aligns correctly with the airbag module. Press the trim clips into place starting from the top and working downward. Reinstall any Torx fasteners removed earlier and tighten securely. Verify the trim panel sits flush and does not interfere with seat operation.
12. 12

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front compartment and reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Remove the warning tags from the steering wheel and ignition. Do not enter the vehicle or close doors at this time.
13. 13

    Perform system diagnostics and clear codes
    Connect the Rivian diagnostic scanner or equivalent OBD-II tool capable of SRS system access to the vehicle's diagnostic port. Power on the vehicle to accessory mode (do not put in drive). Read all SRS fault codes and document them. The system will likely show a fault for the replaced airbag. Using the diagnostic tool, follow the manufacturer's procedure to clear SRS codes and perform the airbag system self-test. The airbag warning light on the instrument cluster should illuminate briefly during startup and then extinguish, indicating proper system operation.
    ⚠If SRS codes cannot be cleared or the airbag light remains illuminated after clearing codes, do not operate the vehicle. Further diagnosis by a qualified technician is required.
14. 14

    Verify airbag warning light operation
    With the diagnostic tool still connected, cycle the vehicle power off and back on several times. Observe that the airbag warning light illuminates during each startup sequence and then extinguishes after approximately 6 seconds. This indicates the SRS system is performing its self-check and detecting no faults. If the light stays on or flashes, recheck all connections and rescan for codes.
15. 15

    Perform final functional checks
    Without occupants in the vehicle, test seat adjustment functions if applicable to ensure no wiring was pinched. Inspect the seat trim panel for proper fit and secure attachment. Verify the seat belt system operates normally. Document the repair with photos of the completed work and diagnostic scan results showing no active SRS faults. Properly dispose of the old airbag module according to local regulations and manufacturer guidelines for pyrotechnic devices.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all seat trim panels are fully secured with all clips and fasteners properly engaged
2. Verify no tools or parts were left in the seat structure
3. Return seat to normal operating position if it was moved during the procedure
4. Confirm all SRS connectors are fully locked and harnesses are properly routed without pinch points

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify the airbag warning light illuminates briefly during startup then extinguishes (approximately 6 seconds)
• Using the diagnostic scanner, confirm no active or pending SRS fault codes are present
• Perform a visual inspection to ensure the seat trim is properly installed with correct airbag deployment seam alignment
• Gently press on the area around the side airbag to ensure the module is securely mounted and trim does not interfere
• Test seat functions (adjustment, recline) to ensure no interference or wiring issues
• Document the repair completion with diagnostic scan results showing cleared codes and proper system status
• Perform a final walk-around inspection and test drive to ensure normal vehicle operation

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