Rear Shocks - Pair

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of both rear shock absorbers on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear shock absorber - left × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Rear shock absorber - right × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Shock mounting hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification if hardware is corroded

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
3. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal to prevent electrical issues
4. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
5. Apply penetrating oil to shock mounting bolts if vehicle has been exposed to road salt or corrosion
6. Review Rivian service manual for specific torque specifications before beginning work

Procedure

1. 1

   Raise and support vehicle
   Using a floor jack, lift the rear of the vehicle at the designated rear jack point. Once raised to working height, position jack stands under the frame rails at the designated lift points. Lower vehicle onto jack stands and ensure stability before proceeding. Leave floor jack in position under rear axle for additional support.
2. 2

   Remove rear wheels
   Remove the lug nuts completely and take off both rear wheels. Set wheels aside in a safe location away from the work area.
3. 3

   Support rear axle assembly
   Position the floor jack under the rear axle assembly near the shock mount location. Raise jack until it just contacts the axle and provides light support. This will prevent the axle from dropping when shock bolts are removed and maintain suspension geometry.
4. 4

   Access upper shock mount (interior)
   From inside the cargo area, locate and remove any interior trim panels or covers that provide access to the upper shock mount. On the EDV 500, this typically involves removing cargo area side panel trim. Use trim removal tools to avoid damaging clips.
5. 5

   Remove upper shock mounting fasteners
   Locate the upper shock mount at the top of the shock tower. Using appropriate sockets and wrenches, remove the upper mounting nut(s) while holding the shock shaft with a wrench to prevent rotation. Note the orientation and sequence of any washers or bushings for reassembly.
   ⚠Do not allow the shock to fall when the upper mount is released. Have an assistant support it from below or use wire to temporarily suspend it.
6. 6

   Remove lower shock mounting bolt
   From underneath the vehicle, locate the lower shock mounting bolt that attaches the shock to the rear axle or control arm. Using a socket and breaker bar, remove the lower mounting bolt. The shock assembly can now be removed from the vehicle. Repeat for the opposite side.
   ⚠Ensure the jack is properly supporting the axle assembly to prevent sudden movement as the shock is disconnected.
7. 7

   Remove shock assembly
   Carefully guide the shock assembly down and out from the wheel well. Inspect the mounting points on both the chassis and axle for damage, rust, or wear. Clean mounting surfaces with a wire brush if necessary.
8. 8

   Compare old and new shocks
   Place the old shock next to the new replacement shock and verify that they are identical in length, mounting configuration, and specifications. Check that all mounting hardware and bushings are included with the new shock or transfer from the old unit if in good condition.
9. 9

   Install new shock assembly
   Guide the new shock assembly into position, aligning the upper mount with the shock tower opening. Install the upper mounting hardware finger-tight but do not fully torque yet. Align the lower mount with the axle attachment point.
10. 10

    Install lower shock mounting bolt
    Insert the lower mounting bolt through the shock and axle mounting points. Install the nut and tighten finger-tight. Ensure the shock is properly seated and aligned before final torquing.
11. 11

    Torque shock mounting fasteners
    With the vehicle weight supported by jack stands and the suspension at normal ride height (accomplished by the jack under the axle), torque the upper shock mounting nut(s) and lower shock mounting bolt to manufacturer specifications. Consult Rivian service documentation for exact torque values as they are not available in this database.
    ℹ️Suspension fasteners must be torqued at normal ride height to prevent premature bushing wear. Adjust jack height under axle as needed.
12. 12

    Repeat for opposite side
    Reposition the floor jack to support the opposite side of the rear axle. Repeat steps 5 through 11 for the second rear shock assembly.
13. 13

    Reinstall interior trim panels
    Replace any interior cargo area trim panels or covers that were removed to access the upper shock mounts. Ensure all clips are properly seated and panels are secure.
14. 14

    Reinstall wheels and lower vehicle
    Reinstall both rear wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Raise vehicle slightly with floor jack to remove jack stands. Lower vehicle completely to the ground. Torque lug nuts to manufacturer specification (typically 140-150 ft-lb for Rivian EDV) in a star pattern.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Start the vehicle and check for any warning lights or error messages related to suspension systems. Test drive the vehicle at low speed to verify proper shock operation and listen for any unusual noises.

Reassembly

1. Torque all fasteners to Rivian specifications at normal ride height to prevent bushing damage
2. Ensure all interior trim panels are properly secured and all clips are engaged
3. Verify wheel lug nuts are torqued to specification in a star pattern

Verification

• Test drive vehicle over various road surfaces and verify improved ride quality and control
• Listen for any clunking, rattling, or abnormal noises from rear suspension
• Verify no warning lights or error messages appear on the instrument cluster
• Visually inspect shock mounting points for proper alignment and secure installation
• Check that shock assemblies are not leaking fluid and appear properly positioned
• Confirm steering and handling feel normal with no pulling or instability

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