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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front wiper motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Cowl panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper linkage bushings (if worn) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Turn off all vehicle systems and remove the key fob from the vehicle
3. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal located in the front compartment
4. Wait at least 5 minutes for capacitors to discharge
5. Position wiper arms to the service position (mid-windshield) if vehicle supports this feature
6. Place protective covering over the windshield to prevent scratches during work

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark and remove wiper arms
   Use tape or a marker to mark the exact rest position of both wiper arms on the windshield. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield and locate the retention tab at the base. Press the tab and carefully pull the wiper arm off the drive post. If stuck, use a wiper arm puller tool to avoid damaging components. Remove both driver and passenger side wiper arms.
2. 2

   Remove cowl panel trim
   Open the hood fully. Locate and remove the plastic trim caps covering the cowl panel fasteners. Remove all cowl panel retaining screws using the appropriate Torx or socket driver. Starting from one end, use trim removal tools to carefully release the cowl panel clips along the length of the panel. Lift the cowl panel away from the vehicle and set aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove weatherstrip and reveal molding
   Remove the rubber weatherstrip seal from the cowl area by pulling it free from the retaining clips. If present, remove the reveal molding pieces that cover the wiper mechanism area. These may be secured with clips or fasteners that must be removed first.
4. 4

   Access wiper motor compartment
   With the cowl removed, locate the wiper motor assembly and linkage. Clear any debris, leaves, or obstructions from the cowl plenum area. Identify the wiper motor electrical connector and the mounting bolts securing the motor to the firewall structure.
5. 5

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector. Press the locking tab or release mechanism and carefully disconnect the connector from the motor. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage. If connector is difficult to access, it may be necessary to partially unbolt the motor first.
6. 6

   Disconnect wiper linkage
   Locate the connection point between the wiper motor output arm and the wiper linkage. This is typically a ball-socket or clip connection. Use a small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to release the retaining clip, then carefully pry the linkage arm off the motor output shaft. Support the linkage to prevent it from dropping or binding.
7. 7

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Locate all wiper motor mounting bolts (typically 3-4 bolts). Remove the mounting bolts using the appropriate socket or Torx bit. Support the motor assembly as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the orientation and position of the motor for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove wiper motor assembly
   Carefully maneuver the wiper motor assembly out of the cowl compartment. The motor may need to be tilted or rotated to clear surrounding components and structure. Take care not to damage the motor housing or nearby components during removal.
9. 9

   Inspect and prepare new motor
   Inspect the mounting surface and surrounding area for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean the mounting surface if necessary. Compare the old motor to the new replacement to verify correct part. Check that the new motor output arm is in the park position. If the motor has a protective cap over the output shaft, remove it before installation.
10. 10

    Install new wiper motor
    Position the new wiper motor into the mounting location, aligning the mounting holes with the firewall structure. Start all mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper alignment before tightening. Tighten the mounting bolts in a cross pattern to ensure even seating. Since no torque specifications are provided, tighten bolts firmly but do not overtighten.
11. 11

    Reconnect wiper linkage
    Align the wiper linkage arm with the motor output shaft. Press the linkage ball socket firmly onto the motor output stud until the retaining clip engages with an audible click. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the linkage.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align and connect the electrical connector to the wiper motor. Ensure the connector locks into place with an audible click. Apply dielectric grease to the connector if working in a corrosive environment. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
13. 13

    Reinstall cowl components
    Reinstall the reveal molding and weatherstrip seal into their proper positions. Position the cowl panel over the wiper mechanism area and align all mounting holes and clips. Press firmly to engage all clips, then install and tighten all cowl panel fasteners. Install the trim caps over the fastener heads.
14. 14

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Position the wiper arms onto the drive posts in the exact positions marked during removal. Ensure the arms are in the correct park position. Press each wiper arm firmly onto the drive post until the retaining mechanism engages. Verify the arms are securely attached by attempting to pull them off.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall components in reverse order of removal
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Verify all cowl panel fasteners and clips are properly secured
4. Confirm wiper arms are positioned correctly in their park position

Verification

• Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal
• Turn on the vehicle accessory power without starting the drive system
• Test all wiper speeds (intermittent, low, high) to verify proper operation
• Test the windshield washer function in conjunction with the wipers
• Verify wipers return to the correct park position when turned off
• Check for any unusual noises, binding, or irregular movement during operation
• Verify wiper arms do not contact the hood or cowl panel at any point in their sweep
• Inspect for any fluid leaks from washer nozzles if disconnected during the procedure
• Ensure all cowl panel clips are secure and no rattles are present

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