Replace the brake light switch on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500, which activates brake lights when the pedal is pressed and is critical for safe vehicle operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Brake light switch × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Electrical connector grease × 1 — Dielectric grease

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage electronic parking brake
2. Ensure vehicle is in Park mode and powered completely off
3. Open driver's door and leave open for access throughout procedure
4. Locate and disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery (located in front storage compartment)
5. Wait 10 minutes for all vehicle systems to fully discharge
6. Adjust driver's seat fully rearward and downward for maximum pedal access
7. Position work light to illuminate the upper brake pedal area
8. Have replacement brake light switch and tools readily accessible

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dash trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the lower driver's side dash panel below the steering column. Start at the bottom corners and work around the perimeter. There are typically 6-8 push-pin fasteners. Set panel and fasteners aside in a safe location.
2. 2

   Locate the brake light switch
   Use a flashlight to locate the brake light switch mounted on the brake pedal bracket above the pedal arm. The switch is a small cylindrical component with an electrical connector and a plunger that contacts the pedal arm. On the Rivian EDV, it is positioned on the upper side of the pedal bracket.
3. 3

   Document switch position and test operation
   Before removal, use a multimeter to verify the switch is faulty. With 12V battery still disconnected, inspect the switch orientation and mounting position. Take a photo for reference. Note the position of any adjustment features or locking tabs.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the brake light switch. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the switch. Do not pull on the wires. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage. If connector is difficult to access, use needle nose pliers to depress the locking tab.
5. 5

   Remove brake light switch retaining mechanism
   The switch is typically held by a quarter-turn lock mechanism or a threaded collar. Rotate the switch body counterclockwise approximately 30-45 degrees while holding the mounting bracket steady. If using a threaded design, unscrew the switch completely. Note the number of turns for reinstallation reference.
6. 6

   Extract the old brake light switch
   Once unlocked, pull the switch straight out from the brake pedal bracket. The plunger may be extended or retracted depending on its final position. Handle carefully to avoid dropping into the pedal assembly area. Inspect the mounting bore for debris or damage.
7. 7

   Prepare new brake light switch
   Remove the new brake light switch from packaging. Verify it matches the old switch in design and connector type. If the switch has an adjustable plunger, set it to approximately the same length as the old switch for initial installation. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals.
8. 8

   Install new brake light switch
   Insert the new switch into the mounting bore on the brake pedal bracket, ensuring the plunger is aligned to contact the pedal arm properly. Push the switch in fully until it seats against the bracket. Rotate clockwise (if quarter-turn design) or thread in (if threaded design) until secure. Do not overtighten threaded switches.
9. 9

   Adjust switch position
   With the brake pedal in the fully released position, verify the switch plunger has approximately 1-3mm of preload contact with the pedal arm. Some switches have adjustment capability by rotating the switch body after loosening a lock nut. Ensure the switch will fully activate when the pedal is pressed and fully deactivate when released.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Push the electrical connector firmly onto the new brake light switch until the locking tab clicks into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is secured. Ensure wiring is routed cleanly and will not interfere with pedal movement.
11. 11

    Reinstall lower dash panel
    Position the lower dash trim panel back into place, aligning all mounting points. Press firmly around the perimeter to re-seat all push-pin fasteners until each clicks into place. Verify the panel is flush and secure.
12. 12

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front storage compartment and reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Close the storage compartment.

Reassembly

1. Return driver's seat to normal position
2. Verify all trim panels are properly secured and flush
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the vehicle footwell area
4. Clear any diagnostic codes if necessary using the vehicle's system menu

Verification

• With vehicle powered on but not in drive, press the brake pedal and verify brake lights illuminate (have assistant observe or use a mirror)
• Release brake pedal fully and verify brake lights turn off completely
• Test brake lights at multiple pedal positions to confirm smooth activation
• Verify cruise control and shift interlock functions work properly (these systems rely on brake switch signal)
• Check that the vehicle's brake system warning light on the dashboard is not illuminated
• Test drive in a safe area to confirm brake lights activate normally during driving and that all regenerative braking functions operate correctly
• Verify no error messages appear on the instrument cluster related to brake system
• Confirm brake pedal feel is normal with no binding or interference from new switch installation

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