Power Window Motor - Rear

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear power window motor on a 2023 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear power window motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery located in the front compartment and wait 5 minutes
2. Roll the rear window to the full up position if possible before disconnecting battery
3. Protect the surrounding paint and glass with masking tape or protective film
4. Ensure you have a clean workspace to organize fasteners and trim pieces
5. Review door panel removal procedures specific to the EDV cargo door configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear door panel trim
   Using the panel removal tool, carefully pry out the door panel starting at the bottom rear corner. Work your way around the perimeter, releasing the retaining clips. There are typically 8-10 clips around the panel edge. Once clips are released, lift the panel up and away from the door frame to disengage the top retention hooks.
2. 2

   Disconnect door panel electrical connectors
   Locate and disconnect all electrical connectors behind the door panel. This typically includes the window switch connector and any additional switches or controls. Press the locking tabs and pull connectors straight apart. Set the door panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove vapor barrier
   Carefully peel back the vapor barrier film to access the window regulator and motor assembly. Start from one corner and work slowly to avoid tearing. If the barrier is adhesive-backed, you may need to carefully warm it with a heat gun on low setting to release the adhesive without damage.
4. 4

   Support the window glass
   Place masking tape across the top of the window glass to secure it in the full up position. Alternatively, use wooden blocks or specialized window support tools wedged between the glass and the door frame to prevent the glass from dropping when the motor is disconnected.
   ⚠Failure to properly support the window glass may result in it falling inside the door, causing damage or injury.
5. 5

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the window motor assembly. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the motor. On some configurations, you may need to rotate the connector lock 90 degrees before removal.
6. 6

   Disconnect window glass from regulator
   Locate the two bolts securing the window glass to the regulator lift plate inside the door. These are typically accessed through service holes in the door frame. Remove the bolts using a T30 Torx driver or 10mm socket. Carefully lift the window glass free from the regulator and ensure it is fully secured in the up position.
7. 7

   Remove window regulator mounting fasteners
   Locate all mounting bolts securing the window regulator and motor assembly to the door frame. There are typically 4-6 bolts accessed through service holes. Remove these bolts using the appropriate T25 or T30 Torx driver. Keep track of bolt locations as they may be different lengths.
8. 8

   Remove window motor and regulator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the window motor and regulator assembly out through the large service opening in the door frame. You may need to collapse or rotate the regulator mechanism to fit it through the opening. Work slowly to avoid damaging the door structure or adjacent components.
9. 9

   Separate motor from regulator (if necessary)
   If replacing only the motor, remove the fasteners securing the motor to the regulator mechanism. Typically there are 3-4 T20 or T25 Torx bolts. Note the orientation and position of the motor before removal for proper installation of the replacement.
10. 10

    Install new window motor
    Attach the new window motor to the regulator mechanism in the same orientation as the original. Ensure all mounting holes align properly and that the motor gear properly engages the regulator mechanism. Install and tighten all mounting fasteners evenly.
11. 11

    Install motor and regulator assembly
    Carefully maneuver the assembly back into the door through the service opening. Align all mounting holes with the door frame. Install all mounting bolts and tighten securely. Verify the regulator moves freely without binding before proceeding.
12. 12

    Reconnect window glass to regulator
    Lower the window glass carefully onto the regulator lift plate. Align the mounting holes and install the two bolts. Tighten securely but do not overtighten as this may crack the glass mounting points.
13. 13

    Test window operation before reassembly
    Reconnect the 12V battery temporarily and reconnect the window motor electrical connector. Test the window operation through several full up and down cycles. Listen for unusual noises and verify smooth operation. Check that the window seats properly at the top and bottom of travel. Disconnect battery again before final reassembly.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the vapor barrier, ensuring a complete seal around all edges
2. Reconnect all door panel electrical connectors, ensuring they click into place
3. Align and install the door panel, engaging the top hooks first, then pressing firmly around the perimeter to seat all retaining clips
4. Verify all switches and controls operate properly
5. Check that the door panel is flush and secure with no gaps or loose areas

Verification

• Reconnect the 12V battery and test the window operation through at least 5 complete up and down cycles
• Verify the window operates smoothly without binding, unusual noises, or hesitation
• Confirm the window fully seats at the top position with proper seal against the weather stripping
• Test the window auto-up and auto-down features if equipped to ensure proper calibration
• Check that all door panel switches and controls function correctly
• Inspect the door panel for proper fit and finish with no rattles or loose components
• Verify no error codes or warnings are present on the vehicle's display

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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