Wiper Linkage

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield wiper linkage assembly on a 2022 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper motor grommet (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl panel clips (as needed) × 5 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• Windshield Washer Fluid — 3.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure windshield wipers are in parked position
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Disconnect the 12V accessory battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
5. Mark wiper blade rest positions with tape on windshield for reassembly reference
6. Drain windshield washer fluid reservoir if access requires removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. Remove the protective cap from the wiper arm base. Use a 13mm socket to loosen the wiper arm retaining nut. Mark the position of each wiper arm on the post with a marker. Rock the wiper arm gently while pulling away from the windshield to release from the splined post. Remove both driver and passenger wiper arms.
2. 2

   Remove cowl panel assembly
   Remove the rubber weather seal along the rear edge of the hood opening at the cowl. Use trim removal tools to carefully pry up the cowl panel retention clips. There are typically 8-10 clips along the cowl panel. Lift the cowl panel carefully and disconnect any washer nozzle hoses by pressing the release tabs. Remove the cowl panel and set aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Access wiper motor and linkage
   Locate the wiper motor assembly on the driver side of the cowl area. Identify the linkage connecting the motor to both wiper posts. Note the routing and orientation of the linkage arms before disassembly. Take photos if necessary for reference during reassembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the motor housing. Press the connector locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. Secure the connector away from the work area to prevent damage.
5. 5

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three bolts securing the wiper motor to the mounting bracket. Support the motor and linkage assembly as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Disconnect linkage from wiper posts
   Locate the linkage ball joints at each wiper post. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the linkage arms off the ball studs at each wiper post. Work carefully to avoid breaking the plastic linkage bushings. If bushings are damaged, note for replacement.
7. 7

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   Carefully maneuver the complete wiper motor and linkage assembly out of the cowl area. The assembly may need to be rotated and tilted to clear obstructions. Take care not to damage surrounding components or wiring harnesses during removal.
8. 8

   Inspect mounting points and grommets
   Inspect the wiper post splines for damage or wear. Check the motor mounting grommets and bushings for deterioration. Inspect the cowl drain channels and clear any debris. Replace any damaged grommets or seals before installing the new linkage.
9. 9

   Install new wiper linkage assembly
   Position the new wiper motor and linkage assembly into the cowl area, maneuvering it into place in reverse of removal. Ensure all grommets and seals are properly positioned. Align the linkage ball joints with the wiper post studs and press firmly until they snap into place on both sides.
10. 10

    Secure wiper motor
    Align the wiper motor with its mounting bracket. Install the three 10mm mounting bolts and tighten in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Ensure the motor sits flush against all mounting points without binding or misalignment.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Reconnect the wiper motor electrical connector, pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Ensure the connector is fully seated and the weather seal is properly positioned.
12. 12

    Reinstall cowl panel
    Reconnect washer nozzle hoses to the cowl panel, ensuring they click securely into place. Position the cowl panel over the wiper linkage area, aligning all mounting points. Press down firmly on each clip location until all clips are fully seated. Reinstall the rubber weather seal along the cowl edge.
13. 13

    Install wiper arms
    Position each wiper arm onto its splined post according to the alignment marks made during removal. Ensure the linkage is in the park position before installing arms. Press the wiper arm firmly onto the post. Install the retaining nut and tighten to secure with a 13mm socket. Install protective caps. Verify both wiper arms are at the correct park position using the tape marks.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the 12V accessory battery negative terminal. Allow the vehicle systems to initialize. Turn the vehicle to accessory mode. Test wiper operation in all speed settings (intermittent, low, high). Verify wiper arms move smoothly without binding and return to correct park position. Test washer spray function if nozzles were disconnected.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all cowl panel clips are fully seated and panel is secure
2. Verify wiper arms are tightened to prevent loosening during operation
3. Refill windshield washer fluid reservoir to proper level if drained
4. Check for any rattles or loose components before closing hood

Verification

• With vehicle in accessory mode, test wipers in all speed settings including intermittent mode
• Verify wipers return to proper park position and do not obstruct driver vision
• Check that wiper blades make full contact with windshield through entire sweep
• Verify no unusual noises, binding, or hesitation during wiper operation
• Test washer spray function and verify proper spray pattern on windshield
• Confirm no water leaks around cowl panel during washer operation

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