Power Antenna Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the power antenna motor on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500 commercial delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power antenna motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna motor seal/gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
3. Locate the power antenna on the roof or rear quarter panel of the vehicle
4. Verify antenna motor failure by attempting to extend/retract antenna with ignition on
5. Take photos of wiring connections before disassembly for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior headliner or trim panel
   Remove the interior trim panel or headliner section that provides access to the antenna motor mounting location. For roof-mounted antennas, carefully pull down the headliner near the antenna location. For rear quarter panel antennas, remove the interior cargo area side trim panel using trim removal tools. Work carefully to avoid breaking trim clips.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna motor electrical connector
   Locate the antenna motor electrical connector near the motor housing. Press the locking tab and disconnect the electrical connector from the antenna motor. If connector is difficult to access, use a wire connector removal tool to release the locking mechanism.
3. 3

   Test antenna motor (optional diagnostic step)
   If diagnosing the issue, use a multimeter to test for voltage at the connector when antenna extend/retract is commanded. With ignition on and antenna button pressed, check for 12V power and ground signals. This confirms whether the issue is the motor or upstream wiring/control module.
4. 4

   Disconnect antenna mast cable
   Locate where the antenna mast cable connects to the motor drive mechanism. Depending on design, this may be a clip connection or require loosening a small set screw. Carefully disconnect the antenna mast from the motor drive gear to prevent damage to the cable.
5. 5

   Remove antenna motor mounting fasteners
   Remove the mounting bolts or screws securing the antenna motor assembly to the body. These are typically 3-4 bolts in a circular pattern around the motor housing. Use appropriate socket or Torx bit based on fastener type. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove antenna motor assembly
   Carefully pull the antenna motor assembly away from the mounting surface. The motor housing may be sealed with a gasket or rubber grommet. Work the assembly free gently, rotating if necessary to clear any obstructions. Note the orientation of the motor for proper reinstallation.
7. 7

   Inspect mounting surface and seal
   Examine the body mounting surface for corrosion, damage, or debris. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly with a clean cloth. Inspect the seal or gasket that prevents water intrusion; replace if torn, compressed, or damaged. Check the antenna mast for damage or debris.
8. 8

   Prepare new antenna motor
   Unpack the new antenna motor assembly and verify it matches the original unit. Install a new seal or gasket onto the motor housing base if not pre-installed. Ensure the motor drive gear is in the retracted position to properly engage with the antenna mast.
9. 9

   Install new antenna motor assembly
   Position the new antenna motor assembly into the mounting location, ensuring proper orientation and alignment with mounting holes. Verify the seal is properly seated around the entire perimeter to prevent water leaks. Guide the antenna mast into engagement with the motor drive mechanism.
10. 10

    Install motor mounting fasteners
    Install the mounting bolts or screws and tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the seal. Since no torque specifications are provided in the database, tighten fasteners snugly but avoid overtightening which could damage the motor housing or seal.
11. 11

    Connect antenna mast cable
    Reconnect the antenna mast cable to the motor drive mechanism. Ensure secure engagement by gently pulling on the mast to confirm it's locked into the drive gear. If applicable, tighten any set screws to secure the connection.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the new antenna motor until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently tugging on the connector. Ensure no wires are pinched or stressed.
13. 13

    Reinstall interior trim
    Reinstall the interior headliner section or trim panel, aligning all clips and fasteners. Press firmly to seat trim clips but avoid excessive force. Replace any broken clips identified during removal.
14. 14

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. The vehicle may require initialization procedures after battery reconnection. Check owner's manual for any specific reset procedures required.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly locked
2. Verify the antenna motor seal is properly seated to prevent water intrusion
3. Confirm all interior trim panels are securely reinstalled with no loose clips or gaps
4. Check that no tools or parts were left in the work area

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position without starting the vehicle
• Test antenna extend and retract functions multiple times using the radio power button or dedicated antenna control
• Listen for smooth motor operation without grinding or binding noises
• Verify antenna fully extends and retracts without stopping prematurely
• Check for proper antenna mast alignment when fully extended
• Inspect the mounting area from exterior for proper seal seating and no gaps
• Test radio reception to confirm antenna is properly connected and functioning
• Verify no warning messages or error codes appear on the instrument cluster

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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