This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the front sway bar links on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van with dual motor AWD configuration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front sway bar link (left) × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Front sway bar link (right) × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Sway bar link mounting hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification if hardware is damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, stable surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Raise front of vehicle using floor jack at designated front jacking point
5. Support vehicle securely on jack stands placed at reinforced pinch weld locations or frame rails
6. Remove front wheels completely and set aside
7. Spray penetrating lubricant on sway bar link fasteners and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes if corrosion is present

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the front sway bar link
   Locate the front sway bar link connecting the lower control arm to the sway bar. On the Rivian EDV 500, the link is positioned between the motor assembly and the front wheel well. Inspect the link for wear, torn boots, or excessive play before proceeding with removal.
2. 2

   Support the lower control arm
   Position a floor jack or jack stand under the lower control arm near the ball joint to support the suspension at ride height. This prevents excessive droop and tension on the sway bar during link removal. Apply just enough support to maintain the arm in a neutral position.
3. 3

   Remove upper sway bar link fastener
   Locate the upper mounting point where the sway bar link attaches to the sway bar. Use an 18mm wrench to hold the link stud stationary while using a 15mm socket to remove the upper mounting nut. The stud may spin, requiring a second wrench or locking pliers on the hex portion of the stud. Remove the nut, washer, and bushing, noting their orientation for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove lower sway bar link fastener
   Locate the lower mounting point where the link attaches to the lower control arm. Use the same technique as the upper fastener: hold the stud with an 18mm wrench while removing the nut with a 15mm socket. If the ball joint is seized in the control arm, use a ball joint separator or pickle fork to break it free, taking care not to damage the control arm or surrounding components.
5. 5

   Remove the sway bar link
   Once both fasteners are removed, extract the sway bar link from between the sway bar and lower control arm. The link may require some manipulation or prying to clear the mounting points. Inspect the mounting points on both the sway bar and control arm for damage, excessive wear, or corrosion.
6. 6

   Clean mounting surfaces
   Use a wire brush to clean the mounting surfaces on the sway bar and lower control arm where the new link will attach. Remove any rust, corrosion, or debris that could prevent proper seating of the new link. Inspect threads in the mounting points and chase with appropriate tap if necessary.
7. 7

   Install new sway bar link
   Position the new sway bar link between the sway bar and lower control arm. Start with the lower attachment point, inserting the stud through the control arm. Install the lower bushing, washer, and nut, threading it hand-tight only at this stage. Ensure bushings are properly oriented with any grooves or flats aligned correctly.
8. 8

   Attach upper connection
   While supporting the link, align the upper stud with the mounting point on the sway bar. Install the upper bushing, washer, and nut, threading hand-tight. Verify that both connections are properly aligned and the link is not twisted or binding before final tightening.
9. 9

   Torque fasteners to specification
   With the suspension at ride height (supported by the jack under the control arm), torque both the upper and lower sway bar link nuts to specification. Since manufacturer torque specs are not available in the database, consult Rivian service information. Typical values for this application range from 35-50 ft-lb, but verify before tightening. Hold the stud with a wrench while torquing the nut to prevent spinning.
10. 10

    Repeat for opposite side
    If replacing both sway bar links, repeat steps 2-9 for the opposite side of the vehicle. It is recommended to replace sway bar links in pairs to maintain balanced suspension performance and handling characteristics.
11. 11

    Remove support and reinstall wheels
    Remove the jack supporting the lower control arm. Reinstall the front wheels, threading lug nuts by hand initially. Lower the vehicle until the wheels just contact the ground but the full weight is not yet on the wheels.
12. 12

    Torque wheel lug nuts
    With the vehicle weight partially on the wheels, torque the lug nuts in a star pattern. Consult the owner's manual or service information for proper lug nut torque specification (typically 130-150 ft-lb for the Rivian EDV 500). Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all fasteners are properly torqued to specification
2. Verify sway bar links are not binding and have appropriate range of motion
3. Check that no tools or parts were left in the wheel wells or under the vehicle
4. Confirm wheel lug nuts are properly torqued after vehicle is fully on the ground

Verification

• Test drive the vehicle at low speed in a safe area, making gentle turns to verify proper suspension operation
• Listen for any clunking, rattling, or unusual noises from the front suspension during turning or over bumps
• Verify vehicle handling feels balanced and there is no pulling to one side
• After 50-100 miles of driving, re-check torque on sway bar link fasteners and wheel lug nuts
• Visually inspect the installed links for any signs of looseness, movement, or improper installation

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