Replace the AC pressure sensor on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500 to restore proper HVAC system pressure monitoring and climate control functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC pressure sensor × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• O-ring seal for pressure sensor × 1 — Usually included with sensor
• R-1234yf refrigerant × 1 — As needed to refill system

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes
3. Verify you have proper EPA certification for refrigerant handling
4. Ensure AC recovery machine is properly calibrated and contains adequate tank capacity
5. Access the Rivian service mode through the center display if available to disable HVAC system
6. Locate the AC pressure sensor on the high-pressure side of the AC system near the condenser in the front compartment

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove front fascia access panel
   Open the front cargo area (frunk). Remove the fasteners securing the front access panel above the frunk opening using a 10mm socket. Carefully pull the panel forward to access the AC condenser area. Disconnect any electrical connectors for lights or sensors attached to the panel.
2. 2

   Recover AC refrigerant
   Connect the AC recovery machine to the system service ports. Follow machine manufacturer instructions to safely recover all R-1234yf refrigerant from the system. Record the amount of refrigerant and oil recovered for proper recharge quantities. Ensure recovery is complete before proceeding.
3. 3

   Locate and access AC pressure sensor
   Identify the AC pressure sensor on the high-pressure line near the condenser. It will have a two-pin electrical connector. Remove any protective covers or heat shields that may obstruct access. Clean the area around the sensor to prevent contamination during removal.
4. 4

   Disconnect pressure sensor electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the pressure sensor electrical connector and carefully pull straight back to disconnect. Inspect the connector for corrosion or damage. Use electrical contact cleaner if needed and allow to dry completely.
5. 5

   Remove old AC pressure sensor
   Using the appropriate wrench, carefully unthread the AC pressure sensor from the high-pressure line fitting. Turn counterclockwise to remove. Be prepared for residual refrigerant pressure release even after recovery. Remove the old O-ring seal from the fitting port.
6. 6

   Prepare new sensor installation
   Inspect the new AC pressure sensor and verify part number matches OEM specifications. Lubricate the new O-ring seal with refrigerant oil. Install the O-ring into the groove on the sensor or fitting as applicable. Verify the fitting threads on the high-pressure line are clean and undamaged.
7. 7

   Install new AC pressure sensor
   Thread the new AC pressure sensor into the high-pressure line fitting by hand until finger-tight. Using a torque wrench, tighten to manufacturer specification. If specification is not available, tighten to snug plus 1/6 turn (approximately 60 degrees) to properly seat the O-ring without overtightening.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Align the electrical connector with the pressure sensor terminals and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
9. 9

   Evacuate AC system
   Connect a vacuum pump to the AC system service ports. Evacuate the system to at least 29 inches of mercury vacuum. Maintain vacuum for a minimum of 30 minutes to remove all air and moisture. Monitor for vacuum decay which would indicate a leak.
10. 10

    Leak test system
    After evacuation holds steady for 30 minutes, close service valves and observe vacuum gauge for 10 minutes. System should hold vacuum without decay. If vacuum drops, pressurize system with dry nitrogen to locate leak before proceeding.
11. 11

    Recharge AC system
    Using the AC service machine, recharge the system with the recorded amount of R-1234yf refrigerant recovered earlier, plus any make-up refrigerant needed to reach specification. Add refrigerant oil if required per system specifications. Verify proper charge weight on machine display.
12. 12

    Verify sensor operation
    Reconnect the 12V battery. Using a diagnostic scan tool compatible with Rivian systems, monitor AC pressure sensor readings. With system off, pressure should equalize around ambient temperature equivalent (typically 70-100 psi at 70°F). Verify no fault codes are present for the AC pressure sensor circuit.
13. 13

    Function test AC system
    Start the vehicle and turn AC system to maximum cooling. Monitor high and low side pressures using scan tool or manifold gauges. High side pressure should rise appropriately (typically 200-300 psi depending on ambient temperature). Low side should drop to 25-45 psi. Verify cold air output from vents.
14. 14

    Check for leaks and reinstall panels
    Use a refrigerant leak detector to check the pressure sensor connection and surrounding fittings for any leaks. If no leaks detected, reinstall any heat shields or protective covers. Reinstall the front access panel and secure with all fasteners. Reconnect any electrical connectors to the panel.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all AC line connections are tight and leak-free before closing access panels
2. Verify electrical connector at pressure sensor is fully locked
3. Reinstall all panels and fasteners removed during disassembly
4. Double-check that 12V battery is reconnected with positive terminal secure

Verification

• Use scan tool to verify AC pressure sensor is reading correctly with no fault codes
• Confirm AC system cools properly and reaches target cabin temperature
• Verify high and low side pressures are within normal operating range during AC operation
• Check for refrigerant leaks at sensor connection using leak detector
• Test AC system through multiple cooling cycles to ensure consistent operation
• Verify compressor engages and disengages properly based on pressure sensor inputs

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