Power Window Motor - Rear

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel clips × 1 — Replacement trim clips as needed
• Vapor barrier adhesive × 1 — If barrier damaged during removal

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal located in front storage compartment
3. Wait minimum 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Roll rear window to approximately mid-position if motor is functional
5. Photograph interior door panel and switch connections for reference
6. Prepare clean workspace for door panel storage to avoid scratching trim

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear door panel lower trim
   Use panel removal tool to carefully pry out the lower door panel trim piece starting from the rear edge. Work around the perimeter releasing all clips. Remove any visible T20 Torx screws securing the trim.
2. 2

   Disconnect window switch assembly
   Locate the rear window switch assembly in the door panel. Press the connector release tab and disconnect the electrical connector. Use masking tape to label connector if multiple switches are present.
3. 3

   Remove door panel fasteners
   Remove all T30 Torx screws around the perimeter of the door panel (typically 6-8 screws). Remove any 8mm bolts near the door handle area. Carefully note locations as screw lengths may vary.
4. 4

   Remove door panel
   Lift door panel upward to disengage from window sill clips. Pull panel away from door frame gently. Disconnect any remaining electrical connectors for speakers or courtesy lights. Set panel aside on protected surface.
5. 5

   Peel back vapor barrier
   Carefully peel back the plastic vapor barrier to access the window regulator and motor assembly. Work slowly to avoid tearing the barrier. If adhesive is weak, plan to replace or re-secure with appropriate adhesive during reassembly.
6. 6

   Support window glass
   Place masking tape across the window glass to the door frame to prevent it from dropping. Alternatively, have an assistant hold the glass in position, or use a window wedge tool to secure it in the up position.
7. 7

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the window motor electrical connector inside the door frame. Press the connector release tab and carefully disconnect. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
8. 8

   Remove motor mounting fasteners
   Remove the T30 Torx bolts securing the window motor to the regulator mechanism (typically 3 bolts). Support the motor assembly as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
9. 9

   Separate motor from regulator
   Carefully slide the motor gear assembly away from the regulator mechanism. The motor may be connected via a sector gear or cable drum depending on regulator design. Note the orientation of the motor for proper installation of replacement.
10. 10

    Remove window motor from door
    Maneuver the window motor assembly through the access opening in the door frame. This may require angling the motor and routing around internal door structure. Remove motor completely from vehicle.
11. 11

    Install new window motor
    Position the new window motor through the door access opening and align it with the regulator mechanism. Ensure the motor gear correctly engages with the regulator sector gear or cable drum. Verify proper orientation by comparing with photographs taken during disassembly.
12. 12

    Install motor mounting fasteners
    Install the T30 Torx bolts to secure the window motor to the regulator assembly. Tighten bolts in a cross pattern to ensure even seating. While no torque specification is provided, tighten securely without over-torquing plastic or aluminum components.
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical connector and test
    Reconnect the window motor electrical connector ensuring it clicks into place. Temporarily reconnect the 12V battery and window switch. Test window operation through full up and down cycle to verify motor function and proper alignment before final reassembly.

Reassembly

1. Disconnect 12V battery again before completing door panel reinstallation
2. Re-secure vapor barrier to door frame ensuring complete seal to prevent moisture intrusion
3. Align door panel with retaining clips and press firmly into place starting at the window sill
4. Reinstall all door panel fasteners in their original locations, noting different screw lengths
5. Reconnect all electrical connectors for switches, speakers, and courtesy lights
6. Reinstall lower door trim panel ensuring all clips are properly seated
7. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal and tighten securely

Verification

• Test window operation from both driver and rear door switches through multiple complete cycles
• Verify window travels smoothly without binding or unusual noise throughout entire range
• Confirm window auto-up and auto-down functions work correctly if equipped
• Check that window seals properly against weatherstripping when fully closed
• Verify all door panel clips are secure with no rattles or gaps
• Test door lock and other switches to confirm proper reconnection
• Check for any electrical fault codes using vehicle diagnostics if available

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