Brake Caliper Slide Pins

Service or replace the brake caliper slide pins to restore proper caliper movement and prevent uneven brake pad wear on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Brake caliper slide pin boot kit × 4 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Brake caliper slide pin grease (high-temp synthetic) × 1 — Use silicone-based brake grease
• Brake caliper slide pins (if corroded/damaged) × 4 — Use OEM Rivian specification

Fluids

• DOT 4 Brake Fluid — 0.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind wheels that will remain on ground
3. Turn vehicle OFF and remove key fob from vehicle interior
4. Loosen wheel lug nuts 1/4 turn before lifting vehicle
5. Lift vehicle using proper jack points per Rivian service manual
6. Support vehicle on jack stands rated for commercial vehicle weight (minimum 10,000 lbs capacity)
7. Remove wheels completely
8. Verify brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir - top off if needed before starting work
9. Inspect brake system for any leaks, damage, or excessive wear before proceeding

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove brake caliper from bracket
   Locate the two caliper mounting bolts (typically 13mm or 15mm) that attach the caliper to the bracket. DO NOT remove the slide pins yet. Remove only these mounting bolts and carefully lift the caliper off the bracket. Support the caliper with a caliper hanger or bungee cord attached to the suspension - never let it hang by the brake hose.
2. 2

   Identify and inspect slide pins
   With the caliper removed, locate the two slide pins on the caliper bracket. These are the pins the caliper slides on during braking. Inspect the rubber boots covering each pin for tears, cracks, or deterioration. Check for any brake fluid or moisture inside the boots, which indicates seal failure.
3. 3

   Remove slide pin boots and pins
   Carefully peel back or remove the rubber dust boots from each slide pin. Use a flathead screwdriver or pick if needed, but avoid damaging the boot if reusable. Pull the slide pins straight out from the caliper bracket. Note which pin came from which position if they differ in length.
4. 4

   Clean slide pin bores
   Use brake parts cleaner and a wire brush to thoroughly clean the slide pin bores in the caliper bracket. Remove all old grease, dirt, rust, and corrosion. Inspect bores for pitting or damage. If severely corroded, the bracket may require replacement. Dry thoroughly with shop towels or compressed air.
5. 5

   Inspect and clean slide pins
   Examine each slide pin carefully for corrosion, pitting, grooves, or bending. Even minor damage can cause binding. If pins show any wear or damage, replace with new OEM pins. Clean reusable pins completely with brake parts cleaner and wire brush until all old grease is removed. Pins should be smooth and shiny.
6. 6

   Apply brake grease to slide pins
   Apply a thin, even coat of high-temperature synthetic brake grease to the entire length of each slide pin. Use only brake-specific silicone-based grease - do not use petroleum-based grease which can damage rubber components. Ensure complete coverage but avoid excess that can attract dirt.
7. 7

   Reinstall slide pins
   Insert each greased slide pin back into its correct bore in the caliper bracket. Push pins in fully until they seat completely. Pins should slide smoothly with no resistance or binding. If pins bind or feel tight, remove and inspect for debris or damage.
8. 8

   Install new slide pin boots
   Install new rubber dust boots over each slide pin, ensuring they seat properly in both the pin groove and the bracket groove. Boots must be fully seated with no gaps or twists. Apply a small amount of brake grease to boot lips if needed to aid installation. Verify boots are secure and will prevent moisture entry.
9. 9

   Test slide pin movement
   Before reinstalling the caliper, manually test each slide pin by pushing and pulling to verify smooth movement through full travel. Pins should move freely without binding, catching, or excessive play. If movement is not smooth, disassemble and reinspect.
10. 10

    Reinstall brake caliper
    Verify brake pads are properly positioned in the bracket. Carefully position the caliper back over the brake rotor and pads, aligning the caliper mounting holes with the slide pins. Install the caliper mounting bolts and tighten by hand initially. Torque mounting bolts to manufacturer specification (verify in service manual as torque specs are not provided in database).
11. 11

    Repeat for remaining wheels
    Perform the same slide pin service procedure on all remaining brake calipers (front and rear). For consistency and safety, service all four wheels even if only one was problematic. This ensures balanced brake performance.
12. 12

    Reinstall wheels and lower vehicle
    Reinstall wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower vehicle until wheels just touch ground but jack stands still support weight. Torque lug nuts to specification (typically 120-150 ft-lbs for EDV 500, verify in owner's manual) using star pattern. Fully lower vehicle and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Double-check all caliper mounting bolts are torqued to specification
2. Verify all slide pin boots are properly seated with no tears or gaps
3. Check brake fluid level in master cylinder and top off to MAX line with DOT 4 fluid if needed
4. Pump brake pedal firmly 10-15 times until pedal feels firm and normal
5. Inspect under vehicle for any brake fluid leaks around calipers and connections

Verification

• Start vehicle and verify no brake system warning lights are illuminated
• With vehicle stationary, apply firm brake pedal pressure - pedal should be firm and not sink
• Perform low-speed test drive in safe area (empty parking lot) to verify brakes apply evenly without pulling
• Test brakes at progressively higher speeds in safe conditions, ensuring proper stopping power
• Listen for any unusual noises during braking (grinding, squealing, clicking)
• After test drive, inspect wheels for signs of uneven heating or brake drag
• Re-check brake fluid level after test drive and top off if necessary
• If any abnormality is detected, do not drive vehicle and seek professional diagnosis immediately

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