ev-cooling
EV Coolant Pump
for 2023 Rivian EDV 500 Dual Motor AWD (EDV) · AWD
Difficulty
Advanced
Time
3.0 h
Tools
10
Steps
15
🤖AI-generated, not yet human-verified. This walkthrough was produced by AI and may contain errors. Treat it as a guide, cross-check every step and torque value against the manufacturer's service manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. This is a moderate-risk job — take extra care.
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the EV coolant pump on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500, which circulates coolant through the battery pack and electric drive motors.
Warnings
⚠️The high voltage system must be properly isolated and service mode activated before beginning work. Failure to do so can result in severe electric shock or death.
⚠️Allow the coolant system to cool completely before opening any connections. Hot coolant can cause severe burns.
⚠EV coolant is specific to electric vehicle thermal management systems and is not interchangeable with standard automotive coolant. Use only approved EV Battery/Motor Coolant.
⚠The coolant pump is integrated with high voltage components. Do not attempt to disassemble the pump assembly.
ℹ️This procedure requires activating service mode through the Rivian diagnostic system, which disables high voltage systems.
Tools required
Metric socket set (8mm-19mm)Essential
Torque wrenchEssential
Coolant drain pan (2 gallon minimum)Essential
Trim removal tool setEssential
Rivian service mode activation tool/softwareEssential
Digital multimeterEssential
Coolant refill funnel with adapter
Nitrile glovesEssential
Pick set for electrical connectors
Floor jack and jack stands (if needed)
Parts
- EV coolant pump assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Coolant pump mounting gasket/seal × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Coolant hose clamps × 2 — Use OEM specification
- High voltage connector seals (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Fluids
- EV Battery/Motor Coolant — 3 qt
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Ensure vehicle has been off for at least 2 hours to allow coolant system to cool completely
- Connect diagnostic tool and verify ability to activate service mode before beginning
- Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 5 minutes
- Activate service mode through Rivian diagnostic software to isolate high voltage system
- Verify high voltage isolation using multimeter across HV terminals (should read 0V)
- Place coolant drain pan under vehicle beneath coolant pump location
- Remove front underbody panel for access to coolant pump (if applicable to pump location)
- Document coolant hose routing with photos for reassembly reference
Procedure
- 1Drain coolant systemLocate the coolant drain valve on the thermal management system, typically positioned at the lowest point of the coolant circuit. Attach drain hose to valve and open to drain coolant into collection pan. Drain approximately 3-4 quarts or until coolant stops flowing from the section being serviced.
- 2Remove coolant pump access coversRemove trim panels or covers protecting the coolant pump assembly. The pump location varies but is typically mounted near the battery pack or front drive unit. Use trim removal tools to avoid breaking clips. Set aside all fasteners in organized container.
- 3Disconnect electrical connectorLocate the coolant pump electrical connector. Press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector from the pump. Verify no damage to connector pins or seals. If connector has secondary lock, remove it first using pick tool.
- 4Remove inlet coolant hoseUsing appropriate socket or pliers, loosen the inlet hose clamp. Carefully twist and pull the inlet hose from the pump inlet fitting. Be prepared for residual coolant spillage. Inspect hose end for damage or deterioration.
- 5Remove outlet coolant hoseLoosen the outlet hose clamp and remove the outlet coolant hose from the pump. Again, expect residual coolant to drain. Cap or plug hose ends if delay in installation is expected to prevent contamination.
- 6Remove pump mounting fastenersRemove all mounting bolts securing the coolant pump to its bracket or mounting location. Typically 2-4 bolts secure the pump assembly. Support the pump with one hand while removing the final fastener to prevent dropping.
- 7Remove coolant pump assemblyCarefully maneuver the coolant pump assembly out of its mounting position, being mindful of nearby high voltage cables and components. Do not force the pump; rotate or angle as needed to clear obstructions. Inspect mounting area for debris or damage.
- 8Prepare new coolant pumpUnpack new coolant pump and verify it matches the removed unit. Check that all mounting tabs, connector orientation, and hose fittings align properly. Install new mounting gasket or seal onto pump if applicable.
- 9Install new coolant pumpPosition new coolant pump into mounting location, ensuring mounting holes align properly. Thread mounting bolts by hand first to avoid cross-threading. Once all bolts are started, tighten in a cross pattern to manufacturer specification (torque spec not available in database - refer to service manual).
- 10Reconnect coolant hosesInstall outlet hose first, pushing fully onto fitting until it seats completely. Position new clamp and tighten securely. Repeat for inlet hose. Ensure hoses are routed as documented in preparation photos and are not kinked or under tension.
- 11Reconnect electrical connectorAlign and firmly push electrical connector onto coolant pump until it clicks into place. Verify locking tab engages. Install secondary lock if equipped. Gently tug on connector to confirm secure connection.
- 12Refill coolant systemUsing appropriate EV Battery/Motor Coolant, refill the system through the coolant reservoir to the proper level. Fill slowly to minimize air pocket formation. Add approximately 3 quarts or amount drained. Follow Rivian bleeding procedure if specified in service manual.
- 13Bleed air from systemWith diagnostic tool connected, activate coolant pump through service mode functions to circulate coolant and purge air from system. Monitor coolant level and add as needed. Run pump for 2-3 minutes, then check for leaks at all connections.
- 14Reinstall access coversReinstall all trim panels, underbody covers, and fasteners removed during disassembly. Ensure all clips are fully seated and panels are secure.
- 15Exit service mode and restore powerUse diagnostic tool to properly exit service mode and restore high voltage system to operational status. Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. Clear any diagnostic codes related to service mode activation.
Reassembly
- Verify all coolant hose clamps are properly tightened and positioned
- Confirm electrical connector is fully seated with locking mechanism engaged
- Double-check that all access panels and covers are reinstalled
- Ensure no tools or parts are left in vehicle or under vehicle
Verification
- Start vehicle and monitor for any warning lights or messages related to thermal management system
- Using diagnostic tool, verify coolant pump operation and flow rate within normal parameters
- Check coolant reservoir level and top off if needed - level should be between MIN and MAX marks
- Inspect all hose connections for leaks while system is operating
- Monitor coolant temperature during a short test drive to confirm proper circulation
- Verify no unusual noises from coolant pump during operation
- Confirm battery and motor temperatures remain within normal operating range