Perform a software update on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van using Rivian's service tools to update vehicle firmware, battery management systems, and motor control software.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle in a well-ventilated service bay with stable temperature between 50-90°F
2. Ensure high voltage battery state of charge is at least 50% (preferably 70% or higher)
3. Verify 12V auxiliary battery is in good condition and fully charged (12.4V or higher at rest)
4. Download latest Rivian Service Toolbox software and ensure all updates are installed
5. Verify stable internet connection with minimum 10 Mbps download speed
6. Review service bulletins and technical notices for any known issues with current software version
7. Disable vehicle sleep mode through vehicle settings to prevent interruption during update

Procedure

1. 1

   Check vehicle status and battery condition
   Turn vehicle to ON position without engaging drive mode. Check instrument cluster for any active faults or warnings. Verify high voltage battery charge level is at least 50%. Check 12V battery voltage using multimeter if available (should read 12.4V or higher). Document current software version from vehicle settings menu.
2. 2

   Connect service diagnostic equipment
   Locate the OBD-II diagnostic port below the driver side dashboard. Connect the Rivian service OBD-II to Ethernet adapter to the diagnostic port. Ensure the connection is secure and adapter power light is illuminated. Connect the adapter to your laptop or tablet via Ethernet cable or WiFi as applicable.
3. 3

   Launch Rivian Service Toolbox software
   Open the Rivian Service Toolbox application on your service laptop. Enter your service credentials and select the appropriate service center location. Wait for the software to establish communication with the vehicle. Verify VIN matches the vehicle being serviced and that all vehicle systems are communicating properly.
4. 4

   Run pre-update vehicle diagnostics
   Use the Service Toolbox to run a complete system diagnostic scan. Review all fault codes and clear any non-critical codes that may interfere with update process. Document any permanent or critical faults. Verify all high voltage systems, battery management system, and motor control modules are online and responding.
5. 5

   Check for available software updates
   Navigate to the Software Update section in Service Toolbox. Click 'Check for Updates' to query Rivian's server for available firmware packages. Review the update description, release notes, and any special instructions. Note which modules will be updated (powertrain, battery management, infotainment, ADAS, etc.). Verify the update package matches the service bulletin or work order requirements.
6. 6

   Download software update package
   Select the appropriate software update package and click 'Download'. Monitor download progress and ensure stable internet connection throughout. Verify package integrity checksum matches the expected value shown in Service Toolbox. Download typically takes 10-30 minutes depending on update size and connection speed.
7. 7

   Prepare vehicle for update installation
   Ensure vehicle is in Park with parking brake engaged. Turn vehicle to ON position (do not put in drive mode). Disable all accessory loads including climate control, radio, and lighting. If available, connect a battery maintainer to the 12V auxiliary battery to prevent voltage drop during extended update. Ensure all doors are closed and vehicle is secured.
8. 8

   Initiate software update installation
   In Service Toolbox, click 'Install Update' to begin the flashing process. Confirm the installation prompt and wait for the update to begin. Monitor the progress bar and status messages. The vehicle may cycle power multiple times during this process - this is normal. Update installation typically takes 20-60 minutes depending on the number of modules being updated.
9. 9

   Monitor update progress
   Observe the Service Toolbox display for update progress and any error messages. Do not disconnect any cables or interrupt power during this process. Vehicle instrument cluster may go dark or display 'Software Update in Progress' message. Note the percentage completion and estimated time remaining. If update stalls for more than 10 minutes at same percentage, consult Rivian technical support.
10. 10

    Complete update and verify installation
    Wait for Service Toolbox to display 'Update Complete' or 'Installation Successful' message. Vehicle will automatically perform a system reboot and initialization process which may take 3-5 minutes. Once complete, verify the new software version is displayed in both Service Toolbox and vehicle settings menu. Check that version numbers match the expected update package version.
11. 11

    Run post-update diagnostics
    Use Service Toolbox to run a complete system diagnostic scan after update. Verify all modules are online and communicating properly. Check for any new fault codes that may have been triggered during update process. Clear any soft codes related to the update process. Verify battery management system, motor controllers, and all safety systems are functioning correctly.
12. 12

    Perform system calibrations if required
    Check Service Toolbox for any required calibrations or configurations following the software update. Some updates may require ADAS camera calibration, battery capacity re-learning, or motor torque relearn procedures. Follow the guided calibration procedures in Service Toolbox if prompted. Document all calibrations performed in service records.

Reassembly

1. Disconnect service diagnostic equipment from OBD-II port
2. Remove battery maintainer if installed
3. Restore all vehicle settings to customer preferences
4. Verify all warning lights extinguish after initialization cycle completes

Verification

• Verify new software version is correctly displayed in vehicle settings menu under 'About Vehicle' or 'Software Information'
• Confirm Service Toolbox shows successful update completion for all target modules
• Cycle vehicle power OFF and back ON, verify normal startup sequence with no warning lights
• Test drive vehicle to verify normal operation of propulsion system, regenerative braking, and all driver assistance features
• Verify infotainment system, connectivity features, and mobile app functions operate normally
• Check that high voltage battery charges and discharges normally with no new fault codes
• Document software update completion in service records with before/after version numbers and any calibrations performed

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