This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 commercial van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Roof antenna assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna base gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Headliner retaining clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery to prevent system faults during antenna disconnection
3. Allow roof surface to cool if vehicle has been in direct sunlight
4. Clean area around antenna base to prevent debris from entering cabin during removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior roof area
   From inside the cargo area, identify the headliner panel section directly below the antenna location (typically center-rear of roof). Use trim tools to carefully release the headliner panel clips starting from the rear edge and working forward. Lower the panel enough to access the antenna mounting hardware and connector.
2. 2

   Locate and support antenna wiring
   Identify the antenna coaxial cable and wiring harness routed from the antenna base. Use masking tape to mark the routing path for reinstallation. Support the headliner panel to maintain access without stressing the material.
3. 3

   Disconnect antenna electrical connector
   Locate the multi-pin connector for the antenna module. Press the connector release tab and pull the connector straight apart. If equipped with a secondary GPS antenna connector, disconnect it as well. Note the connector orientation for reassembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect coaxial cable
   Unthread the coaxial cable connector from the antenna base by turning counterclockwise. Support the cable to prevent it from falling into the roof cavity. If multiple coaxial cables are present, label them for correct reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove interior mounting fasteners
   From inside the vehicle, remove the T25 Torx screws or 10mm nuts securing the antenna base mounting bracket to the roof structure. Typically there are 3-4 fasteners arranged around the antenna base. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Access exterior antenna base
   Using a secure step ladder, access the roof of the vehicle. Locate the external antenna assembly. Clean any dirt or debris from around the base to prevent contamination during removal.
7. 7

   Remove external antenna mast
   If the antenna has a removable mast section, unthread it by turning counterclockwise. This provides clearance for base removal and prevents damage to the mast during the procedure.
8. 8

   Remove external mounting fasteners
   Remove the T20 or T25 Torx screws securing the antenna base to the roof from the exterior. There are typically 3-4 screws around the base perimeter. Set screws aside in a secure container to prevent loss.
9. 9

   Remove antenna assembly
   Carefully lift the antenna base assembly from the roof opening. Have an assistant inside the vehicle guide the wiring and connectors through the roof opening to prevent snagging. Remove the old base gasket from the roof surface.
10. 10

    Prepare mounting surface
    Clean the roof mounting surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove old gasket material, dirt, and oxidation. Inspect the roof opening for any damage or corrosion. Ensure the surface is completely dry before proceeding.
11. 11

    Install new gasket and position antenna
    Place the new antenna base gasket onto the roof opening, ensuring proper alignment with mounting holes. From the exterior, carefully feed the new antenna assembly's wiring and connectors through the roof opening. Position the antenna base onto the gasket, aligning all mounting holes.
12. 12

    Install mounting fasteners
    From the exterior, install the base mounting screws finger-tight to hold the assembly in position. From inside, install the interior mounting nuts or screws finger-tight. Tighten all fasteners in a cross-pattern to ensure even gasket compression. Do not overtighten as this can distort the base or crack the roof panel.
13. 13

    Reconnect wiring and cables
    From inside the vehicle, reconnect the coaxial cable(s) to the antenna base by threading clockwise until snug. Connect the electrical connector(s) ensuring they click into place and are fully seated. Verify all connections are secure and properly routed.
14. 14

    Install antenna mast
    From the exterior, thread the antenna mast onto the base assembly by turning clockwise until firmly seated. Do not use tools that could damage the mast finish.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the headliner panel by aligning clips and pressing firmly until all clips engage
2. Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery
3. Verify headliner is properly seated with no gaps or misalignment

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and check for any antenna or communication system fault codes in the instrument cluster
• Test AM/FM radio reception across multiple stations to verify antenna function
• Verify cellular connectivity by checking the signal strength indicator on the infotainment system
• If equipped with Connected Services, verify GPS functionality through navigation system
• Inspect the exterior antenna base for proper sealing and no water intrusion points
• Perform a test drive and verify all communication systems remain functional
• Check for any water leaks around antenna base during next car wash or rain event

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