Remove and replace the HVAC control panel in the dashboard of a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 delivery van, including disconnecting the electrical connectors and climate control interfaces.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• HVAC control panel assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel retaining clips × 4 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector seals × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Turn off all vehicle systems and remove the key fob from the cabin
3. Open the driver's door and locate the 12V battery disconnect switch or negative battery terminal in the front storage compartment
4. Disconnect the 12V battery and wait at least 10 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
5. Set the climate control to OFF position before beginning work
6. Gather all tools and replacement parts in a clean workspace
7. Document existing HVAC settings and take reference photos of the control panel area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dashboard trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry the lower dashboard trim panel starting from the bottom edge. Release the retaining clips by working around the perimeter. There are typically 6-8 clips securing this panel. Once all clips are released, pull the panel away from the dashboard and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove center console side trim panels
   Locate and remove the side trim panels on both sides of the center console near the HVAC control area. These panels are secured with 4 retaining clips each. Use trim tools to release the clips, starting from the rear and working forward. Carefully pull the panels away to access the mounting hardware behind the HVAC control panel.
3. 3

   Remove HVAC control panel surround bezel
   Identify the decorative bezel surrounding the HVAC control panel. This bezel is typically secured with 6 retaining clips around its perimeter. Use a trim removal tool to gently pry the bezel starting from the bottom corners. Work your way around the perimeter, releasing each clip. Once free, pull the bezel forward approximately 2 inches and set aside.
4. 4

   Remove HVAC control panel mounting fasteners
   With the bezel removed, locate the four T20 Torx screws securing the HVAC control panel to the dashboard bracket. These screws are typically positioned at the corners of the control panel. Remove all four screws completely and retain them for reinstallation. The control panel should now be loose but still connected by wiring harnesses.
5. 5

   Access rear electrical connectors
   Carefully pull the HVAC control panel forward approximately 4-6 inches from the dashboard opening. Use a flashlight to illuminate the rear of the unit. Identify all electrical connectors attached to the back of the control panel. There will typically be 2-3 main connectors: one large multi-pin connector for power and data, one for display backlight, and possibly one for climate sensors.
6. 6

   Disconnect primary power connector
   Locate the largest connector on the rear of the HVAC control panel (typically a gray or black multi-pin connector). Press the locking tab on the connector while pulling it straight back away from the control panel. This connector may be tight, so ensure the locking tab is fully depressed before pulling. Avoid pulling on the wires themselves.
7. 7

   Disconnect remaining electrical connectors
   Disconnect all remaining electrical connectors from the HVAC control panel. Each connector has a unique locking mechanism - some have side tabs while others have center release buttons. Take care to identify and release each locking mechanism properly. Note the position and orientation of each connector for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove old HVAC control panel
   With all electrical connections disconnected, carefully remove the HVAC control panel from the dashboard opening. Inspect the mounting bracket and dashboard opening for any debris or damage. Check all connectors for signs of corrosion or damage. Clean the mounting area with a microfiber cloth if necessary.
9. 9

   Prepare new HVAC control panel
   Remove the new HVAC control panel from its packaging. Inspect it for any shipping damage. If the unit has a protective film on the display, remove it carefully. Compare the new unit to the old unit to verify correct part number and connector configuration. Apply electrical contact cleaner to the connector pins on the vehicle harnesses if needed.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connectors to new panel
    Begin reconnecting the electrical connectors to the new HVAC control panel. Start with the smallest connectors first, then move to the larger ones. Align each connector carefully and push firmly until you hear or feel a click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Verify each connector is fully seated and locked by gently pulling on the connector body (not the wires).
11. 11

    Install new HVAC control panel into dashboard
    Carefully guide the new HVAC control panel into the dashboard opening, ensuring all wiring harnesses are routed properly behind the unit and not pinched. Push the panel back until it is flush with the mounting bracket. Align the mounting screw holes with the bracket.
12. 12

    Install mounting fasteners
    Install all four T20 Torx screws through the HVAC control panel into the dashboard mounting bracket. Start all screws by hand first to ensure proper thread engagement. Tighten the screws in a cross pattern (top left, bottom right, top right, bottom left) to ensure even pressure. Tighten screws snug but do not overtighten as the mounting boss can crack.
13. 13

    Reinstall trim panels and bezels
    Reinstall the HVAC control panel surround bezel by aligning all retaining clips with their receptacles in the dashboard. Press firmly around the perimeter until all clips snap into place. Reinstall the center console side trim panels and lower dashboard trim panel in reverse order of removal. Ensure all clips are fully engaged and panels sit flush.
14. 14

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front storage compartment and reconnect the 12V battery by either engaging the battery disconnect switch or reconnecting the negative terminal. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Close the front storage compartment.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are properly aligned and all retaining clips are fully engaged before testing
2. Verify no tools or parts were left inside the dashboard assembly
3. Check that all panel gaps are consistent and even around the HVAC control area
4. Confirm no rattles or loose components when pressing on the newly installed panels

Verification

• Turn the vehicle to ON mode and wait for the infotainment system to boot completely
• Verify the HVAC control panel illuminates and displays information correctly
• Test all HVAC control functions: temperature adjustment, fan speed control, air distribution modes, and recirculation button
• Confirm the climate control system responds to input changes and displays update accordingly
• Test both driver and passenger temperature controls if equipped with dual-zone climate control
• Verify automatic climate control functions operate correctly if so equipped
• Check that the defrost and max AC functions operate as expected
• Listen for any unusual noises from the HVAC system during operation
• Confirm the HVAC system communicates properly with the vehicle's main computer by checking for any error messages on the instrument cluster
• Test the system through multiple drive cycles to ensure consistent operation

More procedures for this vehicle