This procedure covers removal and replacement of the front wiper motor assembly on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front wiper motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper linkage retaining clips × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl panel clips × 6 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off vehicle and remove key fob from cabin
3. Allow vehicle systems to fully power down (wait 2 minutes after shutdown)
4. Open front hood and secure in open position
5. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and wait 5 minutes for system discharge
6. Place protective covers over fenders to prevent scratches
7. Mark wiper blade rest positions on windshield with masking tape for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift wiper arm away from windshield and locate the retaining tab at the base of each arm. Pull tab up or press release button while pulling wiper arm straight off the splined shaft. If stuck, use a wiper arm puller to avoid damaging the splines. Remove both driver and passenger side wiper arms completely.
2. 2

   Remove cowl panel end caps
   Locate the plastic end caps on both sides of the cowl panel where it meets the A-pillars. Use trim removal tool to gently pry up the end caps, releasing the retaining clips underneath. Set caps aside in a clean location.
3. 3

   Remove cowl panel fasteners
   Remove all T25 Torx screws securing the cowl panel (typically 6-8 screws along the length of the panel). Remove the plastic push-pin fasteners by prying up the center section first, then removing the entire fastener. Keep all fasteners organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove cowl panel
   Carefully lift the cowl panel assembly starting from one end, releasing any remaining clips. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips. Once all clips are released, lift panel up and away from the vehicle. Note the routing of any washer fluid hoses or vent tubes that may be attached and disconnect as needed.
5. 5

   Disconnect washer fluid hose
   Locate the washer fluid supply hose connected to the wiper motor assembly or spray nozzle manifold. Press the release tab on the quick-connect fitting and pull hose straight off. Have a small container ready to catch any fluid that may drip.
6. 6

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the main electrical connector on the wiper motor (large multi-pin connector typically on the motor body). Press the locking tab or slide the safety lock, then pull connector straight off the motor. Do not pull on wires.
7. 7

   Disconnect wiper linkage
   Locate the ball joints or clips connecting the wiper linkage arms to the motor crank arm. Use flathead screwdriver to carefully pry up the retaining clips securing the linkage to the motor drive arm. Some models use a push-pin style retainer that must be pried out. Separate linkage from motor crank arm.
8. 8

   Remove wiper motor mounting bolts
   Remove the three 10mm or 13mm bolts securing the wiper motor assembly to the mounting bracket. Support the motor with one hand as you remove the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Note the location of any ground wires attached to mounting bolts.
9. 9

   Remove wiper motor assembly
   Carefully maneuver the wiper motor and attached bracket out of the cowl area. May need to rotate or angle the assembly to clear surrounding components. Inspect the mounting area for any debris or water damage before installing new motor.
10. 10

    Install new wiper motor assembly
    Position the new wiper motor assembly into the mounting location, ensuring it is properly oriented with mounting holes aligned. Install the three mounting bolts finger-tight initially, then tighten in a cross pattern. If ground wires were present, ensure they are reinstalled under the appropriate bolt.
11. 11

    Reconnect wiper linkage
    Align the wiper linkage ball joint with the motor crank arm socket. Press firmly until the retaining clip snaps into place. Verify secure connection by attempting to pull linkage off - it should not separate. Install new retaining clips if originals are damaged.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical and fluid connections
    Push the electrical connector onto the wiper motor until it clicks and locks securely. Reconnect the washer fluid hose to the quick-connect fitting, ensuring it is fully seated. Tug gently on connections to verify they are secure.
13. 13

    Test wiper motor function
    Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Turn vehicle to accessory mode without starting. Test wiper motor operation through all speed settings and intermittent modes. Verify smooth operation without binding or unusual noise. Test washer fluid spray function. If motor does not operate, recheck all electrical connections.
14. 14

    Reinstall cowl panel
    Position cowl panel over the wiper motor area, reconnecting any vent tubes or hoses. Align all mounting holes and clips. Press down firmly along the entire length to engage clips. Install all T25 Torx screws and push-pin fasteners. Install end caps by pressing firmly until clips engage.
15. 15

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Activate wipers momentarily to cycle motor to park position, then turn off. Align wiper arms onto splined shafts in the correct orientation using tape marks as reference. Press arm firmly onto shaft, then push down the retaining tab or button until it locks. Test wiper operation to verify proper blade contact and sweep pattern across windshield.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all cowl panel clips are fully engaged and panel is flush with surrounding body panels
2. Verify wiper arms are correctly positioned and will not contact hood or A-pillars during operation
3. Check that all electrical connectors have audible/tactile click when connected
4. Inspect for any tools or fasteners left in cowl area before closing

Verification

• Test all wiper speeds (low, high, intermittent settings) and verify smooth operation without hesitation or binding
• Test wiper park function - blades should return to proper rest position below hood line
• Operate washer fluid system and verify proper spray pattern from all nozzles
• Listen for any unusual noises during wiper operation that might indicate improper linkage connection
• Verify no water leaks into cowl area during washer fluid operation
• Check that wiper blade contact pressure is even across entire windshield
• Confirm no error messages or warnings appear on vehicle display related to wiper system

More procedures for this vehicle