Sunroof Motor

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Sunroof motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Headliner trim clips (replacement set) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cable ties (assorted) × 1 — UV-resistant automotive grade

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Ensure sunroof is in fully closed and tilted-down position
3. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes
4. Protect seats and interior surfaces with clean drop cloths
5. Label or photograph all electrical connectors before disconnection

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove overhead console assembly
   Using trim removal tools, carefully pry down the overhead console starting from the rear edge. Release the retention clips on both sides. Disconnect the electrical connectors for dome lights, sunroof switch, and any auxiliary systems. Support the console and set aside on a protected surface.
2. 2

   Remove front headliner trim panels
   Remove the A-pillar trim covers on both sides by pulling firmly from bottom to top. Remove sun visor mounting screws (T30 Torx) on both sides and detach visors. Carefully release the front section of headliner by disengaging clips along the windshield header and sides. Pull headliner down approximately 6-8 inches to access sunroof mechanism area.
3. 3

   Access sunroof motor mounting area
   Locate the sunroof motor assembly mounted on the driver side track rail assembly near the front of the sunroof opening. Cut any cable ties securing the motor wiring harness to the roof structure using cable tie cutters. Trace the motor harness to its connector location approximately 12 inches rearward of the motor.
4. 4

   Disconnect sunroof motor electrical connector
   Press the locking tab on the sunroof motor electrical connector and carefully separate the connector halves. If equipped with a secondary ground wire, remove the 8mm bolt securing the ground terminal to the roof structure. Verify no voltage is present using a multimeter if available.
5. 5

   Release motor drive cable
   Locate the drive cable connection point where the motor output shaft engages with the sunroof track cable. Use a T20 Torx driver to loosen the cable clamp set screw. Carefully slide the cable end fitting out of the motor drive gear housing, taking note of cable routing and tension spring position if present.
6. 6

   Remove sunroof motor mounting fasteners
   Remove the three T30 Torx mounting bolts securing the sunroof motor bracket to the track rail assembly. Support the motor assembly with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from dropping.
7. 7

   Remove motor assembly from vehicle
   Carefully maneuver the motor assembly out from between the headliner and roof structure. Route the wiring harness out and inspect the motor mounting bracket and drive gear for wear or damage. Inspect the track cable end for fraying or damage.
8. 8

   Install new sunroof motor assembly
   Position the new motor assembly into the mounting location on the driver side track rail. Align the mounting holes with the track rail bracket. Thread in the three T30 Torx mounting bolts finger-tight, then tighten in a star pattern to ensure even pressure and proper alignment.
9. 9

   Reconnect drive cable to motor
   Align the track cable end fitting with the motor drive gear housing. Slide the cable fitting fully into engagement with the drive gear, ensuring proper seating. Insert and tighten the cable clamp set screw using T20 Torx driver. Verify the cable moves smoothly without binding.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connections
    Route the motor wiring harness along the original path. Reconnect the main electrical connector until the locking tab clicks into place. If equipped, reattach the ground wire terminal to the roof structure using the 8mm bolt. Secure the wiring harness to the roof structure using new cable ties at original locations.
11. 11

    Reinstall headliner and trim components
    Carefully push the front headliner section back into position, engaging all retention clips along the windshield header and A-pillars. Reinstall A-pillar trim covers by pressing firmly from top to bottom until clips engage. Reinstall sun visors with T30 Torx screws. Reconnect all overhead console electrical connectors and press the console into place until retention clips engage.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize sunroof system
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. Turn vehicle to accessory mode. The sunroof system may require initialization: press and hold the sunroof close button for 10 seconds until the panel fully closes and you hear a confirmation click. This resets the motor position sensors.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim clips are fully seated and panels are flush with surrounding surfaces
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully engaged with locking tabs secured
3. Check that headliner has no sagging or misalignment around sunroof opening
4. Confirm all sun visor mounting screws are tight and visors operate correctly

Verification

• With vehicle in accessory mode, test sunroof open function - panel should move smoothly without hesitation or unusual noise
• Test sunroof close function - panel should seal completely against weatherstripping
• Test sunroof tilt function in both up and down positions
• Verify sunroof auto-close function operates correctly (if equipped)
• Check for proper operation of overhead console lights and switches
• Inspect sunroof seal alignment and ensure no gaps are present when closed
• Test sunroof operation through several full cycles to confirm proper motor function and no binding

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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