Power Antenna Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power antenna motor on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM Rivian part
• Antenna motor mounting grommet × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Push-pin trim clips × 5 — Assorted Rivian trim clips

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
3. Ensure antenna is fully retracted if possible before disconnecting power
4. Photograph antenna and headliner area for reference during reassembly
5. Gather all tools and replacement parts before beginning

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear cargo area headliner panels
   Working in the rear cargo area, locate the headliner panel above where the antenna mast extends through the roof. Use the trim clip removal tool to carefully release all push-pin fasteners around the perimeter of the panel. Support the panel as you remove the final clips to prevent it from falling. Set panel aside in a protected area.
2. 2

   Access antenna motor compartment
   With the headliner removed, locate the antenna motor assembly mounted to the roof structure. Remove any sound deadening material or protective coverings surrounding the antenna motor housing. The motor will be positioned near the rear driver's side roof pillar area.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector attached to the antenna motor assembly. Press the release tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight away from the motor. If the connector is difficult to access, you may need to release a wire harness retaining clip first. Inspect connector pins for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Disconnect antenna coaxial cable
   Locate the coaxial antenna cable connection at the base of the antenna motor assembly. Unthread the coaxial connector by turning it counterclockwise. Pull the cable straight out once disconnected. Be careful not to bend or damage the center conductor of the coaxial cable.
5. 5

   Remove antenna mast mounting hardware
   From the exterior of the vehicle, locate the antenna mast base nut or trim ring. Use the appropriate socket to remove the mounting nut securing the antenna mast to the roof. Keep the nut and any washers in a safe location. The mast should now be free to move with the motor assembly.
6. 6

   Remove antenna motor mounting fasteners
   From inside the vehicle, locate the mounting bolts or screws securing the antenna motor bracket to the roof structure. These are typically 3-4 fasteners arranged around the motor housing. Use the appropriate Torx driver or socket to remove all mounting fasteners. Support the motor assembly while removing the final fastener.
7. 7

   Remove antenna motor assembly
   Carefully lower the antenna motor assembly away from the roof structure. The antenna mast will retract through the roof opening as you lower the motor. Guide the mast carefully to avoid scratching the paint around the roof opening. Remove the complete antenna motor and mast assembly from the vehicle.
8. 8

   Inspect mounting area and clean
   Inspect the roof opening and mounting surface for any signs of water intrusion, rust, or damage. Clean the mounting surface with a suitable cleaner. Check the mounting grommet in the roof opening for deterioration and replace if necessary. Ensure the drain passages around the antenna opening are clear of debris.
9. 9

   Install new antenna motor assembly
   Guide the new antenna motor assembly up through the roof opening, threading the mast carefully through the hole. Align the motor mounting bracket with the roof structure mounting points. Ensure any mounting grommet or seal is properly positioned before proceeding.
10. 10

    Install antenna motor mounting fasteners
    Install all mounting bolts or screws through the motor bracket into the roof structure. Hand-tighten all fasteners first, then tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure. Since no specific torque values are provided, tighten securely but do not over-torque to avoid damaging the mounting bracket or roof structure.
11. 11

    Secure antenna mast from exterior
    From the exterior of the vehicle, install the antenna mast mounting nut or trim ring. Ensure any base gasket or seal is properly positioned. Hand-tighten the nut, then snug it securely. Do not over-tighten as this can damage the mast threads or housing.
12. 12

    Connect antenna coaxial cable
    Reconnect the coaxial antenna cable to the base of the antenna motor assembly. Thread the connector clockwise until hand-tight. Ensure the connection is secure but do not use tools to over-tighten the coaxial connection.
13. 13

    Connect antenna motor electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the antenna motor, ensuring it clicks fully into place. Verify the connector is seated completely and the locking tab is engaged. Secure any wire harness retaining clips.
14. 14

    Reinstall headliner panels
    Reposition the headliner panel, aligning all mounting points with the body structure. Install new push-pin trim clips as needed to replace any damaged during removal. Press firmly on each clip location to ensure full engagement. Verify all edges of the panel are flush and properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal
2. Replace any damaged trim clips with new ones to ensure proper panel retention
3. Verify all interior panels are properly secured with no gaps or misalignment
4. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the headliner area before final assembly

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and test antenna motor operation using the radio power function
• Verify antenna extends fully and retracts completely without binding or unusual noise
• Check radio reception on AM and FM bands to confirm proper antenna connection
• Inspect exterior antenna mast alignment and ensure it is vertical when extended
• Verify no water leaks around antenna base by inspecting area after car wash or rain
• Check that all interior panels are secure and there are no rattles from the headliner area
• Confirm no warning lights or error messages appear on the instrument cluster

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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