This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the AC accumulator (receiver-drier) on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500, including refrigerant recovery, evacuation, and recharge of the AC system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC accumulator (receiver-drier) × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• AC line O-rings and seals kit × 1 — R-1234yf compatible, Rivian OEM
• Refrigerant oil (POE oil for R-1234yf) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• R-1234yf refrigerant × 1 — Quantity as specified on underhood label

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure high voltage system is in service mode if working near HV components
3. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal using 10mm socket and wait minimum 5 minutes
4. Verify refrigerant type on underhood AC specification label (should be R-1234yf)
5. Connect refrigerant recovery machine to AC service ports following manufacturer instructions
6. Check ambient temperature is above 60°F for accurate recovery and recharge
7. Raise vehicle on lift to access underbody components if necessary
8. Remove front undertray or splash shields as needed for access to accumulator

Procedure

1. 1

   Recover refrigerant from AC system
   Connect the R-1234yf recovery machine to both high and low side service ports. Follow recovery machine instructions to completely evacuate all refrigerant from the system. Record the amount of refrigerant recovered for comparison during recharge. Allow system to equalize to atmospheric pressure before disconnecting recovery equipment.
2. 2

   Locate and access AC accumulator
   The AC accumulator on the EDV 500 is typically located in the engine bay near the firewall or mounted on the passenger side of the vehicle. Remove any access panels, covers, or wire harness brackets that obstruct access to the accumulator and its line connections. Take photos of wire routing and bracket positions for reassembly reference.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connections
   If equipped, disconnect the pressure sensor or switch connector from the top of the accumulator. Press the locking tab and pull connector straight off. Inspect connector for corrosion or damage. Cap connector to prevent moisture entry.
4. 4

   Disconnect AC lines from accumulator
   Using appropriate AC line disconnect tools, separate the inlet line (from evaporator) and outlet line (to compressor) from the accumulator. These may be spring-lock couplings or threaded fittings. For spring-lock couplings, use the proper size disconnect tool to release the garter spring. For threaded fittings, use a backup wrench to prevent line damage. Immediately cap all open fittings to prevent moisture and contamination entry.
5. 5

   Remove accumulator mounting bracket
   Remove the bolts or clamps securing the accumulator to its mounting bracket. The accumulator may be mounted with a band clamp or dedicated bracket with 2-4 bolts. Support the accumulator while removing final fastener to prevent it from falling. Note the orientation and position of the accumulator for proper installation of replacement.
6. 6

   Remove accumulator and measure oil
   Carefully remove the accumulator from the vehicle. Drain the old refrigerant oil from the removed accumulator into a graduated container through the outlet port. Measure and record the amount of oil recovered. This amount will need to be replaced in the new accumulator plus any additional oil specified by Rivian (typically add 1-2 oz if accumulator is only component being replaced).
7. 7

   Prepare new accumulator
   Remove the new accumulator from its sealed packaging only when ready to install. Add the appropriate amount of new POE oil for R-1234yf systems into the new accumulator through the inlet port - match the amount drained plus any additional per Rivian specifications. Rotate accumulator to distribute oil. Install new O-rings on both inlet and outlet fittings, lubricating them lightly with refrigerant oil.
8. 8

   Install new accumulator
   Position the new accumulator in the mounting bracket in the same orientation as the original. Ensure inlet and outlet ports are properly aligned with AC lines. Install and hand-tighten mounting bracket bolts or clamps. Verify accumulator is positioned correctly and does not contact any sharp edges or moving components.
9. 9

   Connect AC lines to new accumulator
   Remove caps from AC lines and new accumulator fittings just before connection. Inspect all O-rings for proper seating. Connect the inlet line from evaporator and outlet line to compressor. For spring-lock couplings, push together firmly until you hear/feel the click indicating proper engagement and tug to verify lock. For threaded fittings, hand-tighten first, then use wrench with backup wrench to final tightness - do not overtighten as this can damage seals.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connections
    Reconnect the pressure sensor or switch connector to the accumulator. Ensure connector locks fully and verify proper seating. Route any wire harnesses or brackets back to original positions using reference photos.
11. 11

    Evacuate AC system
    Connect vacuum pump to AC system via manifold gauges. Evacuate system to at least 500 microns and hold for minimum 30 minutes. Monitor vacuum gauge - if vacuum does not hold, there is a leak that must be repaired. A proper evacuation removes all air and moisture from the system which is critical for proper AC operation and component longevity.
12. 12

    Recharge AC system
    Using the refrigerant scale and recovery/recharge machine, add R-1234yf refrigerant to the exact amount specified on the underhood AC specification label. Charge into the low side with engine off, or follow recharge machine instructions. Do not overcharge. Add UV dye if recommended for future leak detection. Close all valves and disconnect charging equipment.
13. 13

    Reinstall access panels and reconnect battery
    Reinstall all undertray panels, splash shields, and covers removed for access. Ensure all fasteners are secure. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes related to AC system using appropriate scan tool if necessary.

Reassembly

1. Verify all AC line connections are secure and properly locked
2. Confirm all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
3. Double-check that no tools or parts were left in engine bay
4. Ensure all panels and shields are reinstalled with proper fasteners
5. Verify accumulator mounting is secure and component does not contact surrounding parts

Verification

• Start vehicle and set AC to maximum cooling with fan on high
• Allow AC system to run for 10 minutes and verify cold air output from vents
• Check low side pressure should be approximately 25-45 PSI and high side 200-300 PSI at idle (varies with ambient temperature)
• Inspect all AC line connections for refrigerant leaks using electronic leak detector or soap solution
• Verify pressure sensor reading on scan tool matches gauge readings if applicable
• Listen for abnormal noises from compressor or system during operation
• Check that compressor cycles on and off properly based on pressure and temperature
• Verify no warning lights or diagnostic codes related to AC system
• Confirm vent temperature is at least 40°F colder than ambient temperature at stabilized operation
• Inspect work area under vehicle for any signs of refrigerant oil leakage after test drive

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