Steering Shaft - Upper

This procedure removes and replaces the upper steering shaft on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500, requiring disconnection from the steering column and intermediate shaft.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Upper steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Upper steering shaft coupling bolts × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower coupling bolts (if reuse not permitted) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Set parking brake
4. Turn ignition off and remove key/fob from vehicle
5. Lock steering wheel in center position using steering wheel lock or tape
6. Open hood and disconnect 12V battery negative terminal
7. Wait minimum 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
8. Gather all tools and new parts
9. Remove driver's side lower dash trim panels to access steering column area

Procedure

1. 1

   Access steering column area
   Remove the driver's side lower dash trim panels and knee bolster to expose the steering column. On the EDV 500, remove the plastic cover panels by carefully prying out the retaining clips. Remove any necessary mounting screws and lower the knee bolster assembly to provide clear access to the upper steering shaft and column connections.
2. 2

   Locate and mark steering shaft alignment
   Identify the upper steering shaft where it connects to the steering column at the top and the intermediate shaft coupling at the bottom. Using a white paint marker or center punch, create alignment marks across both the shaft and the mating components at each connection point. These marks must be clearly visible and aligned for proper reassembly. Document the orientation with photos if possible.
3. 3

   Disconnect upper column connection
   Locate the upper connection where the steering shaft connects to the steering column assembly. Remove the pinch bolt or coupling bolts securing the upper steering shaft to the column. Apply penetrating oil if fasteners are corroded. Carefully note the bolt orientation and any washers or spacers. Support the steering shaft to prevent it from dropping once disconnected.
4. 4

   Access lower shaft coupling
   Working from inside the vehicle or from underneath (depending on access), locate the lower coupling where the upper steering shaft connects to the intermediate shaft. This connection point is typically located near the firewall area. Clean any dirt or debris from the coupling area to clearly see the pinch bolt or coupling fasteners.
5. 5

   Disconnect lower shaft coupling
   Remove the pinch bolt or coupling bolts at the lower connection between the upper steering shaft and intermediate shaft. Keep the fasteners organized and note their installation position. Once the fasteners are removed, the coupling should separate. If the coupling is seized, apply penetrating oil and allow it to soak, then tap gently with a plastic mallet. Do not use excessive force that could damage the splines.
6. 6

   Remove upper steering shaft
   With both connections disconnected, carefully slide the upper steering shaft assembly out of the couplings. The shaft may need to be collapsed or extended slightly to clear mounting points. Maneuver the shaft out through the dash opening, being careful not to damage surrounding components, wiring, or trim. Inspect the removed shaft for wear, damage, or looseness in any joints.
7. 7

   Inspect splines and couplings
   Thoroughly inspect the splines on both the steering column and intermediate shaft for wear, damage, or corrosion. Check for any looseness or excessive wear patterns. Clean the splines with a wire brush and remove any rust or debris. Inspect the coupling clamps and pinch bolt areas for cracks or deformation. Replace any worn components as necessary.
8. 8

   Prepare new upper steering shaft
   Unpack the new upper steering shaft and verify it matches the removed part. Apply a light coat of anti-seize compound to the splines on both ends of the new shaft. Do not over-apply as excess lubricant can attract dirt. Ensure any collapsible sections move freely and any joints rotate smoothly without binding.
9. 9

   Install new upper steering shaft
   Carefully maneuver the new upper steering shaft into position through the dash opening. Align the shaft with both the upper steering column connection and lower intermediate shaft connection. The shaft may need to be adjusted in length to properly engage both splines simultaneously. Ensure the shaft is fully seated into both couplings before proceeding.
10. 10

    Align and secure upper connection
    Align the marks made during disassembly on the upper connection between the shaft and steering column. Ensure the splines are fully engaged and the alignment marks match. Install the upper pinch bolt or coupling bolts and tighten to manufacturer specification. Since no torque specifications are provided in the database, refer to Rivian service information for exact values. Verify the connection is secure with no movement.
11. 11

    Align and secure lower connection
    Align the marks made during disassembly on the lower connection between the upper steering shaft and intermediate shaft. Ensure proper spline engagement and alignment. Install the lower pinch bolt or coupling bolts. Tighten fasteners to manufacturer specification per Rivian service information. Double-check that both upper and lower connections are properly aligned and torqued.
12. 12

    Verify steering shaft installation
    With both connections secured, verify that the steering shaft rotates smoothly without binding or unusual resistance. Check that all alignment marks are properly matched. Ensure there is no excessive play or looseness in either connection. Verify that the shaft does not contact any surrounding components, wiring, or trim throughout its full range of motion.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the driver's side knee bolster and lower dash trim panels, ensuring all clips and fasteners are properly secured
2. Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal
3. Remove steering wheel lock or tape
4. Verify steering wheel is still centered with wheels straight ahead

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no steering-related warning lights appear on the instrument cluster
• Turn the steering wheel slowly from lock to lock while stationary to ensure smooth operation with no binding, clicking, or unusual noises
• Check for any play or looseness in the steering by gently pushing and pulling on the steering wheel
• Perform a short test drive at low speed in a safe area, verifying proper steering response and centering
• Confirm steering wheel returns to center smoothly after turns
• Re-inspect all fasteners for proper torque after test drive
• If any steering angle sensor or clockspring warnings appear, the vehicle may require steering angle sensor calibration using Rivian diagnostic software

More procedures for this vehicle