Pre-Purchase Inspection

Comprehensive pre-purchase inspection of a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van to assess overall condition, identify potential issues, and verify proper operation of all major systems.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Verify vehicle identification number (VIN) matches documentation and record current odometer reading
2. Ensure vehicle is on level ground with adequate lighting for inspection
3. Check that 12V battery has sufficient charge to perform all electrical system tests
4. Prepare inspection checklist and documentation materials including camera for photos
5. Allow vehicle to sit for at least 30 minutes after driving to normalize temperatures for thermal inspection

Procedure

1. 1

   Exterior and body inspection
   Walk around vehicle and inspect all body panels for damage, misalignment, or evidence of collision repair. Check paint condition and use paint thickness meter to identify any repainted panels. Inspect all glass for chips, cracks, or delamination. Check all exterior lighting for proper operation including headlights, taillights, turn signals, brake lights, and cargo area lighting. Verify proper operation of all doors, latches, and seals.
2. 2

   Tire and wheel inspection
   Measure tread depth on all four tires at multiple points across each tire. Inspect for uneven wear patterns that may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Check sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or weathering. Verify tire pressure matches door placard specification. Inspect wheels for damage, curb rash, or bends. Check lug nuts for proper torque and evidence of over-torquing.
3. 3

   High-voltage system diagnostic scan
   Connect OBD-II scan tool with EV capability to diagnostic port. Power on vehicle and perform complete system scan. Review all diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) present in battery management system, motor controllers, charging system, and vehicle control modules. Document all active and pending codes. Check high-voltage battery state of health (SOH), state of charge (SOC), and individual cell voltage readings. Verify all cell voltages are within 0.02V of each other. Record total battery capacity and compare to manufacturer specification.
4. 4

   Charging system verification
   Inspect charge port door operation and condition of charge port contacts for corrosion or damage. If possible, connect to Level 2 charger and verify vehicle accepts charge properly. Monitor charging rate and confirm no error messages appear. Check that charging indicator lights function correctly. Inspect charge port area for any signs of water intrusion or damage.
5. 5

   Brake system inspection
   Check brake fluid level and condition in reservoir. Fluid should be clear, not dark or contaminated. Test brake pedal feel for firmness and consistent pressure. Listen for any unusual noises during brake application. Note that regenerative braking system should provide smooth deceleration. Check parking brake holds vehicle on incline. Measure brake pad thickness at all four corners if visible through wheels, or note for later undercarriage inspection.
6. 6

   Undercarriage and suspension inspection
   Safely raise vehicle on jack stands with wheels chocked. Inspect entire undercarriage for damage to battery pack enclosure, looking for dents, scrapes, or punctures. Check for any fluid leaks from coolant systems, differential units, or brake components. Inspect all suspension components including control arms, bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends for wear or damage. Check CV axles and boots for tears or grease leakage. Examine exhaust heat shields and mounting brackets. Verify all undercarriage protective panels are present and properly secured.
7. 7

   Differential and drivetrain inspection
   With vehicle raised, check front and rear differential units for oil leaks at seals and fill plugs. Verify transfer case has no visible leaks. Rotate wheels by hand and listen for bearing noise or grinding. Check for excessive play in wheel bearings by grasping tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and attempting to rock. Check CV joints by rotating axles and feeling for rough spots or binding.
8. 8

   Brake component detailed inspection
   With wheels removed or through wheel openings, measure brake pad thickness at all four corners. Front and rear pads should have minimum 3mm remaining. Inspect brake rotors for scoring, warping, or excessive rust. Measure rotor thickness if possible and compare to service limit. Check brake calipers for signs of leaking seals or seized pistons. Inspect brake lines for corrosion, damage, or deterioration.
9. 9

   Interior and electrical systems check
   Inspect driver and passenger areas for wear, damage, or modifications. Test all power windows, locks, mirrors, and seat adjustments. Verify HVAC system operates in all modes including heating, cooling, and defrost. Test all interior lighting. Check instrument cluster for warning lights or messages. Verify infotainment system boots properly and touchscreen responds correctly. Test backup camera and parking sensors if equipped. Check USB ports and 12V accessory outlets for function.
10. 10

    Cargo area and fleet equipment inspection
    Inspect cargo area for damage, proper operation of bulkhead door if equipped, and condition of flooring. Check cargo tie-downs and mounting points. Verify cargo area lighting functions. If vehicle has fleet-specific equipment such as shelving, ladder racks, or telematics devices, inspect for proper mounting and function. Check rear door operation, hinges, and latches.
11. 11

    Thermal imaging and leak detection
    Using infrared thermometer, check battery pack temperatures at multiple locations to identify any hot spots that could indicate cell imbalance or cooling issues. Temperature variance should be less than 10°F across pack. Check motor housing temperatures. Inspect coolant reservoir levels for both battery/motor cooling system. Top off washer fluid reservoir to proper level and verify washer system operates.
12. 12

    Road test evaluation
    Perform test drive on varied road conditions if possible. Verify smooth acceleration with no hesitation or power cuts. Test regenerative braking at various levels. Listen for any unusual noises from motors, drivetrain, or suspension. Verify AWD system engages properly. Test steering for proper alignment, pulling, or vibration. Verify all driver assistance features function if equipped. Monitor range estimation and energy consumption rate. Check that vehicle maintains stable high-voltage battery temperature during extended driving.
13. 13

    Final systems verification and documentation
    Return vehicle to service bay and perform final verification scan with diagnostic tool. Check for any new fault codes that may have appeared during test drive. Review all collected data including battery health metrics, fault codes, and physical condition notes. Calculate estimated remaining battery capacity based on age, mileage, and SOH reading. Document all fluid levels checked. Compile comprehensive report with photos of any damage or concerns. Provide recommendations for immediate repairs, upcoming maintenance, and overall purchase advisability.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any wheels removed during inspection and torque lug nuts to manufacturer specification
2. Lower vehicle from jack stands and perform final walk-around
3. Verify all inspection panels, covers, and access points are properly secured
4. Ensure charge port door is closed and all vehicle doors are secured

Verification

• Confirm all diagnostic trouble codes have been documented and no critical safety codes are present
• Verify high-voltage battery state of health is acceptable for vehicle age and mileage (typically above 85% for 2022 model)
• Review that no major fluid leaks were detected during undercarriage inspection
• Confirm all major safety systems (brakes, steering, lighting) are functioning properly
• Ensure comprehensive inspection report includes battery capacity analysis, overall condition assessment, and clear purchase recommendation

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