Airbag - Passenger

Remove and replace the passenger side airbag module in a 2023 Rivian EDV 500, including proper SRS system deactivation and testing.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Airbag module mounting screws/fasteners (if reuse not recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Dashboard trim panel clips (replacement for damaged clips) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is OFF
2. Disable automatic software updates and ensure vehicle will not enter sleep/wake cycles during repair
3. Take photos of dashboard area and airbag location for reassembly reference
4. Ensure you have access to Rivian service procedures or contact Rivian service support for specific EDV 500 airbag replacement protocols
5. Verify replacement airbag part number matches vehicle specification exactly
6. Set up clean, organized workspace with adequate lighting
7. Prepare static-free work surface for removed airbag (clean towel or foam pad, face-up position)
8. Ensure all persons are clear of vehicle interior during battery disconnection and reconnection

Procedure

1. 1

   Disable high voltage system and disconnect 12V battery
   Access vehicle settings through center display and perform proper EV shutdown sequence. Engage service mode if available. Open front trunk and locate 12V battery. Disconnect negative terminal first, then positive terminal. Secure terminals away from battery posts using zip ties or tape. Wait minimum 3 minutes (consult Rivian service documentation for exact time - may be up to 10 minutes for complete capacitor discharge in SRS system).
2. 2

   Remove upper dashboard trim panel
   Starting from passenger side, carefully insert plastic trim removal tool between upper dashboard trim panel and main dashboard. Work around the perimeter to release retaining clips. The EDV 500 typically uses 8-12 clips along this panel. Lift panel carefully once all clips are released, being mindful of any electrical connectors for sensors or vents. Disconnect any electrical connectors and remove panel completely.
3. 3

   Remove glove box assembly
   Open glove box fully. Locate and press inward on both side dampener stops to allow glove box to drop down past normal stop point. Locate mounting screws (typically 4-6 Torx screws at hinge points). Remove screws and disconnect any interior lighting connectors. Remove glove box assembly and set aside to provide access to airbag mounting area.
4. 4

   Access airbag module mounting area
   With glove box removed, locate the airbag module housing behind the dashboard. Remove any additional brackets or wiring harness retainers that obstruct access to the airbag mounting points. The passenger airbag in the EDV 500 is typically mounted with 4 primary fasteners accessible from behind the dashboard structure.
5. 5

   Disconnect airbag electrical connector
   Locate the yellow SRS connector attached to the airbag module (Rivian uses yellow connectors for all SRS components). Note connector orientation and locking mechanism. Slide or press the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. Do NOT pull on wires. Use connector body only. Verify no corrosion or damage to connector pins before proceeding.
6. 6

   Verify system de-energization
   Using a digital multimeter set to resistance (ohms) mode, verify the airbag circuit is de-energized. Check between connector pins for expected resistance value per Rivian specifications (typically 2-3 ohms for airbag squib circuit). Do NOT use voltage mode or apply power. This confirms system capacitors are fully discharged.
7. 7

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   Locate and remove the 4 primary airbag module mounting fasteners using appropriate Torx driver (typically T30 or T40). Support airbag module weight while removing final fasteners. Note fastener locations and any washers or spacers for reinstallation. These fasteners are often coated with thread-locking compound.
8. 8

   Remove old airbag module
   Carefully guide the airbag module out from the dashboard opening. The module may be heavy (5-10 lbs). Ensure wiring harness is completely disconnected and clear. Once removed, immediately place airbag module FACE-UP on prepared clean surface away from work area. Never place face-down or where it could be bumped or dropped.
9. 9

   Inspect mounting points and wiring
   Inspect dashboard airbag mounting points for cracks, damage, or deformation. Check wiring harness for fraying, cuts, or corrosion. Verify mounting studs or threaded inserts are intact and not stripped. Clean mounting surface of any debris. If any structural damage is found, vehicle requires professional assessment before airbag installation.
10. 10

    Install new airbag module
    Remove new airbag from packaging carefully. Verify part number matches vehicle specification. Position new airbag module into dashboard opening, aligning mounting holes with dashboard studs or threaded inserts. Ensure no wiring is pinched. Support module while starting mounting fasteners by hand. Install all fasteners finger-tight before final tightening.
11. 11

    Torque airbag mounting fasteners
    Tighten airbag mounting fasteners in a crossing pattern (star pattern if 4 bolts) to ensure even seating. Since no specific torque specifications are provided in database, follow Rivian service manual specifications exactly - typically in the range of 8-12 Nm (71-106 lb-in) for airbag mounting fasteners, but verify with OEM documentation. Do not overtighten as this can damage mounting points or affect deployment.
12. 12

    Reconnect airbag electrical connector
    Align yellow SRS connector ensuring correct orientation (connectors are keyed and will only fit one way). Push connector firmly until locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on connector body (not wires) to verify secure connection. Ensure no wire tension or routing issues that could stress connector.
13. 13

    Reinstall access components
    Reinstall any wiring harness retainers or brackets removed during disassembly. Reinstall glove box assembly, connecting any interior lighting connectors first, then securing with mounting screws. Verify glove box operates smoothly and dampeners function correctly. Reinstall upper dashboard trim panel, pressing firmly to seat all retaining clips.
14. 14

    Reconnect 12V battery and initialize system
    Reconnect 12V battery positive terminal first, then negative terminal. Tighten terminals securely. Do not enter vehicle or turn on ignition yet. Close front trunk and wait 30 seconds for vehicle systems to initialize.
15. 15

    Clear fault codes and verify system operation
    Connect Rivian service software or compatible OBD-II scan tool. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start/ready vehicle yet). Read and document any SRS fault codes. Clear SRS fault codes using scan tool following proper procedure. Cycle ignition OFF then ON. Verify SRS warning light illuminates briefly during startup then extinguishes (typically 4-6 seconds). If light remains on or flashes, fault codes are still present and must be diagnosed before vehicle operation.

Reassembly

1. Verify all dashboard trim panels are securely clipped and aligned with no gaps
2. Verify glove box opens, closes, and latches properly without interference
3. Confirm no tools or parts were left in dashboard area
4. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked

Verification

• SRS warning light must illuminate for 4-6 seconds during ignition ON, then extinguish completely
• Scan tool shows no active SRS fault codes after clearing
• Perform gentle press test on dashboard above airbag location - should feel solid with no excessive flex or gaps
• All dashboard trim panels are flush and properly seated
• Glove box operates normally without obstruction
• Test drive vehicle and verify SRS light does not illuminate during operation
• If available, perform SRS system self-test using Rivian diagnostic software to confirm proper communication with new airbag module
• Document repair with photos and retain old airbag module for proper disposal according to local regulations

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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