Window Motor and Regulator - Rear

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

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear window regulator and motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door panel retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — Rivian OEM clips
• Vapor barrier adhesive tape × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
3. Roll rear window to approximately mid-position if possible before disconnecting battery
4. Lay protective covers over rear cargo area to prevent damage from tools or parts
5. Verify replacement window motor and regulator assembly matches vehicle configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove rear door trim panel
   Use trim panel removal tools to carefully pry out the rear door panel, starting from the bottom edge. Release all retaining clips around the perimeter by working slowly to avoid breaking clips. Remove any visible T30 Torx screws securing the panel. Lift the panel upward once all fasteners are released to disengage it from the door frame.
2. 2

   Disconnect door panel electrical connectors
   Locate and disconnect all electrical connectors attached to the door panel, including window switch connector and any interior lighting connectors. Use electrical connector release tool if necessary. Note connector positions for reassembly. Set door panel aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Peel back vapor barrier
   Carefully peel back the vapor barrier membrane from the inner door frame to access the window regulator mechanism. Work slowly to avoid tearing the barrier, as it may be reusable. If barrier is damaged, plan to replace with new adhesive tape during reassembly.
4. 4

   Support window glass
   Use masking tape to secure the window glass in the up position, or have an assistant hold the glass. Apply tape from the glass to the door frame exterior or use panel holding suction cups. Ensure glass cannot fall during regulator removal.
5. 5

   Disconnect window motor electrical connector
   Locate the window motor electrical connector inside the door cavity. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector from the motor assembly. Ensure connector is clear of the work area.
6. 6

   Disconnect regulator from window glass
   Locate the attachment points where the regulator connects to the window glass carrier. Remove the 10mm bolts securing the regulator to the glass channel. Carefully separate the regulator mechanism from the glass while continuing to support the glass.
7. 7

   Remove regulator mounting fasteners
   Remove all T30 Torx screws and 10mm bolts securing the window regulator and motor assembly to the door frame. There are typically 4-6 mounting points depending on regulator design. Keep all fasteners organized for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Extract regulator assembly
   Carefully maneuver the window regulator and motor assembly out through the door service opening. The regulator may need to be rotated or adjusted to clear the door frame structure. Take care not to damage window glass, door frame, or wiring harnesses during removal.
9. 9

   Install new regulator assembly
   Position the new window regulator and motor assembly inside the door cavity, maneuvering it through the service opening in reverse of removal. Align the assembly with the mounting points on the door frame. Ensure no wiring is pinched or obstructed.
10. 10

    Secure regulator to door frame
    Install all T30 Torx screws and 10mm bolts to secure the regulator assembly to the door frame. Hand-tighten all fasteners first, then tighten in a cross-pattern to ensure even mounting. Verify regulator sits flush against mounting surface.
11. 11

    Attach regulator to window glass
    Connect the window regulator mechanism to the window glass carrier. Install the 10mm bolts securing the regulator to the glass channel. Ensure proper engagement before tightening. Remove temporary glass supports.
12. 12

    Connect window motor electrical connector
    Reconnect the electrical connector to the window motor. Ensure the connector clicks securely into place and the locking tab engages fully.
13. 13

    Test window operation
    Temporarily reconnect the 12V battery and test window operation through its full range of travel. Verify smooth operation with no binding, unusual noises, or slow movement. Check that window seals properly at full up position and does not obstruct at full down position. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
14. 14

    Reinstall vapor barrier
    Reposition the vapor barrier over the door cavity. If original barrier is intact, press firmly to re-adhere. If damaged, apply new vapor barrier adhesive tape around the perimeter and smooth out any wrinkles or air pockets.
15. 15

    Reinstall door trim panel
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the door panel switches and components. Position the panel onto the door frame, engaging the top edge first. Press firmly around all clip locations to seat the panel. Install all T30 Torx screws. Verify panel fits flush with no gaps or misalignment.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal
2. Perform window initialization procedure if required by manufacturer (cycle window up and down fully 3 times)
3. Verify all door panel switches and features function correctly
4. Check window operation from both interior switch and key fob if equipped
5. Inspect door panel alignment and trim fit

Verification

• Test window operation through complete up and down cycles at least 5 times to verify smooth operation
• Check for proper window sealing at full up position with no wind noise or water leak potential
• Verify window auto-up and auto-down features work correctly if equipped
• Confirm no unusual motor noise, clicking, or binding during operation
• Test window operation from all available controls (door switch, driver master switch, key fob)
• Verify door panel is secure with no rattles or loose clips

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle