This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper switch assembly on the 2023 Rivian EDV 500, including steering column cover removal and electrical connector disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper/Turn Signal Stalk Assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering Column Trim Panel Clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with parking brake engaged and in Park mode
2. Power down the vehicle completely using the center screen power-off sequence
3. Open the front hood and locate the 12V battery in the front compartment
4. Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery and secure cable away from terminal
5. Wait minimum 5 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge
6. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and most extended position for maximum access
7. Prepare work area with good lighting focused on steering column area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Lower Steering Column Cover
   Using a trim panel removal tool, carefully release the plastic clips securing the lower steering column cover. Start from the bottom edge and work around the perimeter. There are typically 4-6 clips holding this cover. Once clips are released, pull the lower cover downward and away from the column to remove it completely.
2. 2

   Remove Upper Steering Column Cover
   Locate the T20 Torx screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically 2 screws on the underside). Remove these screws and store them safely. Gently lift the upper cover upward, being careful of any wire harnesses that may be routed near it. Separate the upper cover from the column assembly and set aside.
3. 3

   Access Wiper Switch Mounting
   With both column covers removed, identify the wiper switch assembly mounted to the left side of the steering column. Observe the mounting bracket and electrical connector routing. Note the position of any wire retaining clips along the column.
4. 4

   Disconnect Wiper Switch Electrical Connector
   Locate the main electrical connector for the wiper switch, which connects to the column wiring harness. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull the connector straight out from the switch assembly. If connector is difficult to access, trace the wire back to a more accessible connection point closer to the column base.
5. 5

   Remove Wire Harness Retaining Clips
   Follow the wiper switch wire harness and release any retaining clips or routing guides securing it to the steering column. These may be push-pin style clips or integrated routing channels. Carefully extract the wire harness from these retention points without damaging the surrounding wiring.
6. 6

   Remove Wiper Switch Mounting Fasteners
   Locate the T25 Torx screws or 10mm bolts securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column bracket (typically 2-3 fasteners). Remove these fasteners completely and store them in a magnetic parts tray. Support the switch assembly as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
7. 7

   Extract Wiper Switch Assembly
   Carefully slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column, guiding the stalk through any openings in the column structure. Be mindful of the wire harness routing and ensure no wires are snagged or pinched during removal. Fully remove the old switch from the vehicle.
8. 8

   Inspect Mounting Area and Connectors
   Examine the steering column mounting bracket for any damage or worn contact points. Inspect the electrical connector on the column harness side for corrosion, bent pins, or debris. Clean connector contacts with electrical contact cleaner if needed. Verify that all mounting bosses and alignment features are intact.
9. 9

   Install New Wiper Switch Assembly
   Position the new wiper switch assembly to the steering column mounting bracket, carefully guiding the stalk through the column structure opening. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Route the wire harness following the same path as the original, ensuring no interference with moving column components or steering wheel rotation.
10. 10

    Secure Wiper Switch Mounting Fasteners
    Install the T25 Torx screws or 10mm bolts through the mounting bracket and thread them into the wiper switch assembly. Tighten fasteners evenly in a cross-pattern to ensure proper seating. Snug fasteners firmly but do not overtighten to avoid cracking the switch housing.
11. 11

    Reconnect Wire Harness and Secure Routing
    Reconnect the main electrical connector to the wiper switch, ensuring it clicks fully into place and the locking tab engages. Secure the wire harness back into all original retaining clips and routing guides along the steering column. Verify no wires are pinched or under tension and that they have adequate clearance from moving parts.
12. 12

    Reinstall Upper Steering Column Cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column assembly, ensuring the wiper switch stalk passes cleanly through the designated opening. Align the cover with the lower column mounting points and press down until seated. Install the T20 Torx screws and tighten securely.
13. 13

    Reinstall Lower Steering Column Cover
    Position the lower steering column cover beneath the column and align it with the upper cover and column mounting points. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all plastic retaining clips. Verify the cover is fully seated with no gaps and all clips are properly engaged.
14. 14

    Reconnect 12V Battery and Initialize System
    Return to the front compartment and reconnect the negative terminal to the 12V battery. Tighten the terminal connection securely. Enter the vehicle and power on the system using the center screen. Allow all vehicle systems to initialize completely, which may take 1-2 minutes.

Reassembly

1. Verify all steering column covers are fully seated with no rattles or gaps
2. Confirm steering wheel can rotate fully without interference from wiper switch or wire harness
3. Check that all trim panels and fasteners have been reinstalled
4. Ensure no tools or parts have been left in the steering column area

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and verify the instrument cluster displays no warning lights related to the wiper system
• Test wiper switch in all positions: single wipe, intermittent (all speeds), low speed, and high speed
• Verify front washer function operates correctly when wiper switch is pulled toward driver
• Test automatic rain-sensing wiper function if equipped by simulating moisture on windshield
• Confirm turn signal and high beam functions still operate correctly (if integrated stalk)
• Verify wiper switch returns to center position properly and all detents engage correctly
• Check for any unusual sounds or resistance when operating the switch
• Test wiper operation at vehicle speeds above 5 mph to verify full system integration

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