This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering wheel on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500, including disconnection of airbag and electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering wheel (if replacing) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel bolt (if reusing is not recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Clockspring assembly (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on a level surface and ensure the front wheels are pointing straight ahead
2. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Disconnect the 12V battery negative terminal and wait at least 5 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
4. Take a photo or mark the steering wheel position relative to the column for proper alignment during reinstallation
5. Ensure you have any security codes or access needed for the vehicle's infotainment system, as battery disconnection may require reinitialization

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column trim panels
   Carefully remove the lower steering column trim panels using trim removal tools. Start at the bottom panel and work upward. There are typically 4-6 clips holding each panel. Pull gently but firmly to release clips without breaking them. Set panels aside in a clean area.
2. 2

   Access driver airbag module fasteners
   Locate the access holes on the sides or rear of the steering wheel (typically two Torx fasteners). Insert a T30 or T40 Torx bit through the access holes to reach the airbag module retaining bolts. These may be accessible from the back of the steering wheel hub.
3. 3

   Remove airbag module mounting bolts
   Remove both Torx bolts securing the airbag module to the steering wheel. Support the airbag module with one hand while removing the second bolt to prevent it from falling. The bolts typically require a T30 or T40 bit.
4. 4

   Disconnect airbag electrical connectors
   Carefully pull the airbag module away from the steering wheel hub. Locate the airbag electrical connector(s) on the back of the module (typically yellow connectors). Press the locking tab and disconnect each connector. Place the airbag module face-up on a clean, flat surface away from the work area.
   ⚠️Always place the airbag module face-up on a stable surface. Never place it face-down, as deployment could cause serious injury.
5. 5

   Disconnect steering wheel control connectors
   Identify and disconnect all electrical connectors for steering wheel controls, including capacitive touch sensors, heating elements (if equipped), and any other control modules. Document or photograph connector positions before disconnection. These connectors may include push-button type and slide-lock type connectors.
6. 6

   Remove steering wheel center bolt
   Locate the main steering wheel retaining bolt in the center of the steering wheel hub. Use an appropriate size socket (typically 18mm or 19mm) to remove this bolt. Note the position of any washers or spacers. Do not loosen or remove the clockspring at this time.
7. 7

   Mark steering wheel and shaft alignment
   Before removing the steering wheel, verify and mark the exact alignment between the steering wheel and the steering shaft using a paint pen or marker. This ensures proper reinstallation with wheels pointed straight ahead.
8. 8

   Remove steering wheel from shaft
   Grip the steering wheel firmly with both hands at 3 and 9 o'clock positions. Pull straight back with steady, even force while rocking slightly side to side. If the wheel does not come free, use a steering wheel puller to avoid damaging the shaft or clockspring. Never strike the wheel or shaft with a hammer. Route all wiring harnesses carefully as you remove the wheel.
   ⚠The clockspring remains on the steering column. Do not rotate the steering shaft or allow the clockspring to turn, as it must remain centered for proper airbag and control function.
9. 9

   Inspect clockspring and shaft
   With the steering wheel removed, inspect the clockspring assembly for any signs of damage, wear, or improper centering. Check the steering shaft splines for damage or wear. Verify the clockspring centering indicator (if visible) shows proper alignment. If the clockspring has been rotated or is damaged, it must be replaced and properly centered.
10. 10

    Install new or replacement steering wheel
    If installing a new wheel, transfer any necessary components from the old wheel according to manufacturer instructions. Ensure the clockspring is still centered and wheels are straight ahead. Align the steering wheel splines with the shaft using your alignment marks. Route all wiring harnesses through the steering wheel hub opening. Push the steering wheel onto the shaft until it seats completely against the clockspring connector plate.
11. 11

    Install and secure steering wheel center bolt
    Install the steering wheel center bolt with any washers or spacers in their original positions. Thread the bolt by hand first to ensure proper engagement. While no torque specification is provided in the database, tighten the bolt firmly and evenly. A typical specification for this application would be verified in the factory service manual.
12. 12

    Reconnect steering wheel electrical connectors
    Reconnect all steering wheel control connectors, including capacitive touch sensors, heating elements, and other control modules. Ensure each connector clicks fully into place and verify the locking tabs are engaged. Route all wiring neatly within the steering wheel hub.
13. 13

    Reinstall airbag module
    Reconnect the airbag electrical connector(s) to the back of the airbag module. Ensure the yellow connectors click securely into place. Carefully position the airbag module into the steering wheel hub, aligning the mounting holes. Install both Torx mounting bolts and tighten securely. Verify the airbag module sits flush with the steering wheel surface.
14. 14

    Reinstall steering column trim panels
    Reinstall the steering column trim panels in reverse order of removal. Ensure all clips engage properly and panels fit flush with no gaps. Verify there are no loose panels or rattles.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. The vehicle will likely display airbag system warnings initially. Use the vehicle's service mode or a diagnostic tool to clear any stored airbag codes and verify proper system function. The infotainment system may require reinitialization.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before reconnecting the battery
2. Verify the steering wheel is centered with front wheels pointing straight ahead
3. Confirm all trim panels are properly secured with no loose clips or gaps

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ON and verify the airbag warning light performs its normal self-check (illuminates briefly then extinguishes)
• Test all steering wheel controls including turn signals, audio controls, cruise control, and any capacitive touch functions
• Verify steering wheel heating function operates correctly if equipped
• Start the vehicle and turn the steering wheel lock to lock slowly, listening for any unusual noises from the clockspring
• If the airbag warning light remains illuminated, use a diagnostic scanner to check for codes and verify clockspring function
• Test drive the vehicle to confirm all steering wheel functions operate normally and there are no warning lights

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