This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering wheel on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, including airbag removal and steering angle sensor calibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering wheel assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel bolt (if not reusable) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Driver airbag module (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Ensure front wheels are pointed straight ahead before beginning work
3. Access the 12V battery disconnect using Rivian-specific battery disconnect procedure through the vehicle's touchscreen or physical disconnect switch
4. Wait minimum 3 minutes after battery disconnect to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
5. Document or photograph steering wheel position and any harness routing before disassembly
6. Ensure you have access to Rivian diagnostic software for steering angle sensor calibration

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver airbag module
   Locate the two T30 Torx fasteners on the rear sides of the steering wheel (accessible from behind). Remove both fasteners while supporting the airbag module. Carefully pull the airbag module straight back from the steering wheel approximately 2 inches to access the electrical connectors.
2. 2

   Disconnect airbag electrical connectors
   Locate the two electrical connectors on the back of the airbag module: the main airbag connector and the horn/control connector. Press the locking tabs and carefully disconnect both connectors. Place the airbag module face-up on a clean, padded surface away from the work area.
3. 3

   Disconnect steering wheel controls
   Locate the additional electrical connectors behind the steering wheel for capacitive touch controls and heated steering wheel (if equipped). Press the connector locking tabs and disconnect all harnesses. Note the routing and positions of all wire harnesses for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Mark steering wheel position
   Using a paint pen or marker, create alignment marks on the steering wheel hub and steering column shaft to ensure proper reinstallation in the same position. Mark both the top and side for reference.
5. 5

   Remove steering wheel retaining bolt
   Using a T40 Torx bit, remove the central steering wheel retaining bolt. This bolt secures the steering wheel to the steering column shaft. Keep this bolt if it is not damaged or deformed; some applications require replacement with a new bolt.
6. 6

   Remove steering wheel from column
   Install a proper steering wheel puller onto the steering wheel. Apply even pressure to pull the steering wheel from the steering column shaft. Do not strike the steering wheel or column shaft with a hammer. Once loose, carefully guide the steering wheel off while feeding the wire harnesses through the center opening. Note the position of the clock spring connector.
7. 7

   Inspect clock spring and column components
   With the steering wheel removed, inspect the clock spring (spiral cable) assembly for any damage, wear, or misalignment. Verify the clock spring is centered and the locking mechanism is engaged. Do not rotate the steering column shaft from the centered position or the clock spring will need to be re-centered.
8. 8

   Install new or replacement steering wheel
   Verify the steering column shaft is still in the centered position matching your alignment marks. Carefully route all wire harnesses through the center of the new steering wheel. Align the steering wheel with the alignment marks made during removal and the splines on the column shaft. Push the steering wheel onto the shaft ensuring it is fully seated.
9. 9

   Install steering wheel retaining bolt
   Install the steering wheel retaining bolt (new or original if reusable) and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Since no torque specification is available in the database, consult Rivian service documentation for the proper torque value, typically in the range of 35-45 ft-lbs for this application. Verify steering wheel is secure and aligned with your reference marks.
10. 10

    Reconnect steering wheel electrical connectors
    Reconnect all steering wheel electrical connectors including the capacitive touch controls and heated steering wheel harnesses. Ensure all connectors are fully seated and locking tabs are engaged. Route all harnesses as documented during removal to prevent pinching.
11. 11

    Reinstall driver airbag module
    Reconnect both electrical connectors to the back of the airbag module (main airbag and horn/control connectors). Ensure connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged. Carefully align the airbag module with the steering wheel mounting points and push into position. Install both T30 Torx fasteners and tighten securely, ensuring even pressure on both sides.
12. 12

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Reconnect the 12V battery using the Rivian battery reconnect procedure. Wait for the vehicle systems to initialize fully before proceeding.
13. 13

    Clear fault codes and calibrate steering angle sensor
    Connect the Rivian diagnostic scanner to the vehicle's OBD-II port. Clear any stored airbag or steering system fault codes. Perform the steering angle sensor calibration procedure: ensure front wheels are pointing straight ahead, follow the diagnostic tool prompts to initialize the sensor, and complete the calibration routine. This step is critical for proper operation of electronic stability control and driver assistance systems.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify steering wheel is centered and aligned properly with wheels straight ahead
3. Confirm no wires are pinched between steering wheel and column
4. Verify airbag module is securely fastened and properly aligned

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Test horn functionality by pressing the horn pad
• Test all steering wheel controls including cruise control, volume, and any capacitive touch functions
• Test heated steering wheel function if equipped
• Verify steering angle sensor calibration by slowly turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock while monitoring the diagnostic scanner - readings should be smooth and accurate
• Perform a test drive at low speed to confirm proper steering operation and verify no warning lights appear
• Confirm electronic stability control and driver assistance systems are functioning normally

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