Airbag - Driver

Remove and replace the driver-side airbag module in the steering wheel, requiring proper SRS system deactivation and post-replacement calibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Driver airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification - Rivian part number specific to EDV 500
• Steering wheel trim clips (if damaged during removal) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure it is in Park mode with parking brake engaged
2. Turn vehicle completely OFF and remove key card/phone from vehicle vicinity to prevent inadvertent activation
3. Document any existing SRS fault codes using diagnostic software before beginning work
4. Photograph steering wheel and airbag position for reference during reassembly
5. Ensure work area is clean and free of static electricity sources
6. Have fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires nearby
7. Put on insulated gloves rated for EV work

Procedure

1. 1

   Disable high-voltage system
   Access the HV disconnect located in the front compartment. Follow Rivian EDV service manual procedure to place vehicle in service mode and disconnect the high-voltage interlock. Verify complete HV isolation using multimeter - measure zero voltage at service disconnect points. Lock out the HV disconnect and apply warning tag.
   ⚠️Verify zero voltage with multimeter before proceeding. Contact with HV components can be fatal.
2. 2

   Disconnect 12V battery
   Locate the 12V auxiliary battery in the front compartment. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. Secure terminals away from battery posts. Apply lockout/tagout device to prevent reconnection.
   ⚠️This step is critical for SRS safety. Double-check both terminals are completely disconnected and cannot accidentally reconnect.
3. 3

   Wait for capacitor discharge
   Wait a minimum of 15 minutes after disconnecting the 12V battery to allow all SRS system capacitors to fully discharge. Set a timer and do not proceed until time has elapsed. Use this time to organize tools and parts.
   ⚠️Do NOT skip or shorten this wait time. Residual energy in capacitors can cause deployment.
4. 4

   Position steering wheel
   Ensure the steering wheel is centered and turned to the straight-ahead position. This provides best access to airbag fasteners and ensures proper clockspring alignment during reassembly. Note the centered position of the steering wheel relative to the dash.
   ⚠Do NOT rotate steering wheel after airbag removal or clockspring may become misaligned, causing damage or airbag malfunction.
5. 5

   Access airbag module fasteners
   On the rear of the steering wheel, locate the two Torx access holes on either side. These may have small covers that need to be removed with a trim tool. The fasteners are located at approximately 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions when viewed from the driver's seat.
6. 6

   Remove airbag mounting screws
   Using a T30 Torx driver, insert through the access holes and remove the two airbag module mounting screws. Turn counterclockwise to remove. Support the airbag module with your other hand as you remove the second screw to prevent it from falling.
   ⚠Support airbag module as fasteners are removed. Do not let it drop or swing freely.
7. 7

   Separate airbag module from steering wheel
   Carefully pull the airbag module straight back toward you, away from the steering wheel hub. The module should lift free once the screws are removed. Move slowly and watch for any wiring harness resistance.
8. 8

   Disconnect airbag electrical connectors
   Locate the airbag squib connector(s) on the back of the airbag module - typically a yellow connector with locking tab. Depress the locking tab and carefully disconnect the connector. If equipped with horn contacts, disconnect those as well. Note connector orientation for reassembly.
   ⚠Handle connectors gently. Do not pull on wires - grasp the connector body only.
9. 9

   Remove and secure old airbag module
   Remove the airbag module completely from the vehicle. Immediately place it face-UP on a clean, padded surface in a secure area away from the work zone. Never place face-down. If module is being discarded, follow local regulations for airbag disposal.
   ⚠️Deployed or undeployed airbags must be handled per local hazardous waste regulations. Undeployed airbags should be professionally deactivated before disposal.
10. 10

    Inspect clockspring and wiring
    With airbag removed, visually inspect the clockspring assembly behind the steering wheel for any damage, loose wiring, or contamination. Check the yellow SRS wiring harness for chafing, cuts, or connector damage. Verify clockspring is centered - there should be alignment marks or indicators visible.
    ⚠If clockspring appears damaged or is not centered, it must be replaced or re-centered per Rivian procedure before installing new airbag.
11. 11

    Prepare new airbag module
    Remove new airbag module from packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage. Verify part number matches vehicle application and old module. Keep protective covers on connectors until ready to install.
12. 12

    Connect new airbag electrical connectors
    Remove protective covers from connectors on new airbag module. Align the yellow SRS connector with the mating connector from the clockspring, ensuring proper orientation. Push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Connect horn contacts if equipped. Verify secure connection by gently tugging on connector body.
    ⚠Ensure connector locks fully engage. Loose connections can cause SRS faults or deployment issues.
13. 13

    Position airbag module on steering wheel
    Carefully guide the airbag module onto the steering wheel hub, routing all wiring properly through the channels. Ensure no wires are pinched or binding. Align the mounting holes in the airbag module with the threaded inserts in the steering wheel hub.
14. 14

    Install airbag mounting screws
    Insert both T30 Torx mounting screws through the access holes and thread them by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Once both screws are started, tighten them evenly in alternating pattern to draw the airbag module down evenly against the steering wheel hub. Tighten to snug specification - do not overtighten as this can damage the airbag housing.
    ℹ️No torque specification available in database. Tighten firmly but do not strip plastic threads. Typical specification is 5-7 lb-ft.
15. 15

    Verify airbag installation
    Check that airbag module sits flush against steering wheel with even gaps all around. Ensure no wiring is visible or pinched. Reinstall any access hole covers that were removed. Verify steering wheel is still centered.
16. 16

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Remove lockout/tagout device. Reconnect 12V battery positive terminal first, then negative terminal. Ensure connections are clean and tight. Do not enter vehicle or touch steering wheel yet.
17. 17

    Re-enable high-voltage system
    Remove lockout/tagout from HV disconnect. Reinstall high-voltage interlock per Rivian service procedures. Verify HV system reconnection indicators show proper status.
18. 18

    Clear fault codes and verify SRS system
    Connect diagnostic tool and turn vehicle to ON position (do not start). Clear any stored SRS fault codes. Perform SRS system verification test per Rivian diagnostic procedures. Verify airbag warning light follows proper sequence: illuminates during bulb check then extinguishes after 6-8 seconds. If light stays on or flashes, diagnose and repair fault before operating vehicle.
    ⚠️Vehicle is UNSAFE to drive if SRS warning light remains illuminated or any faults are present. Professional diagnosis required.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels and covers around steering wheel are properly reinstalled
2. Verify steering wheel remains centered and functions properly with no unusual noises
3. Test horn function to verify proper connection (do this from outside vehicle initially)
4. Document repair with date, mileage, and part numbers for vehicle service records

Verification

• SRS warning light must illuminate during key-on bulb check then extinguish within 6-8 seconds
• No SRS fault codes present when scanned with diagnostic tool
• Airbag module sits flush and secure on steering wheel with no gaps or movement
• Horn functions properly (if equipped through airbag assembly)
• Steering wheel controls function properly (if equipped)
• Perform test drive in safe area and verify no warning lights or unusual noises
• Re-scan for codes after test drive to confirm no new faults
• If possible, have Rivian service center verify proper installation and system function before returning vehicle to regular service

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