This procedure covers removal and replacement of the roof-mounted antenna assembly on the 2024 Rivian EDV 500 commercial delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Roof antenna assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Antenna base seal/gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Headliner push clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with parking brake engaged and vehicle in Park
2. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery located in the front compartment to prevent electrical issues
3. Allow at least 5 minutes after battery disconnection before proceeding with antenna work
4. If recently driven, ensure roof surface is cool to the touch
5. Prepare a clean, soft cloth or mat to place removed antenna components on to prevent scratches
6. Have a stable step stool or platform available for safe roof access

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior headliner area
   From inside the cargo area, locate the headliner panel directly below the antenna location (typically center-rear of roof). Use plastic trim tools to carefully release the headliner panel clips. Gently lower the panel to expose the antenna cable routing and mounting hardware. Support the headliner to prevent damage.
2. 2

   Disconnect antenna electrical connectors
   Locate the antenna cable connectors attached to the antenna base module. Press the locking tab on each connector and carefully pull straight back to disconnect. The EDV 500 typically has 2-3 coaxial connectors for GPS/cellular/WiFi. Label or photograph connector positions for correct reassembly.
3. 3

   Remove interior mounting hardware
   Using the T30 Torx driver, remove the mounting nuts or bolts securing the antenna base to the roof from the interior side. Typically there are 3-4 fasteners arranged in a circular pattern. Keep fasteners organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Access exterior antenna assembly
   Carefully climb onto the roof using proper support. Locate the antenna assembly on the roof surface. Clean any dirt or debris from around the antenna base to prevent contamination during removal.
5. 5

   Remove external antenna assembly
   With the mounting hardware removed from inside, gently lift and rotate the antenna assembly to disengage it from the roof. The antenna base may have alignment pins or tabs that need to be carefully manipulated. Feed the cables through the roof opening while removing the assembly.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean mounting surface
   Inspect the roof opening and mounting surface for damage, corrosion, or debris. Clean the mounting surface thoroughly with electrical contact cleaner. Check the condition of the roof seal/gasket area and ensure no water intrusion has occurred.
7. 7

   Prepare new antenna assembly
   Remove the new antenna from packaging and verify all components are present. Install the new base seal/gasket onto the antenna base, ensuring proper seating in the gasket channel. Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the electrical connectors for corrosion protection.
8. 8

   Install new antenna assembly to roof
   From the exterior, carefully feed the antenna cables through the roof opening. Align the antenna base with the mounting holes and alignment features on the roof. Ensure the gasket seats evenly against the roof surface without gaps.
9. 9

   Secure interior mounting hardware
   From inside the vehicle, guide the cables to prevent pinching. Thread the mounting fasteners onto the antenna base studs and hand-tighten. Using the T30 Torx driver, tighten the fasteners in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Tighten securely but do not over-torque as this may crack the antenna base.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Connect each antenna cable to its corresponding connector on the antenna base, referencing your earlier labels or photos. Push firmly until you hear/feel each connector click into place. Gently tug on each cable to verify secure connection.
11. 11

    Reinstall headliner panel
    Route the antenna cables neatly along their original path, securing with any existing cable clips. Carefully raise the headliner panel into position and press firmly around the perimeter to reseat all push clips. Ensure the panel sits flush without gaps.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery. Turn the vehicle to ON mode (do not necessarily start). The infotainment system should boot up and begin initializing the antenna modules. This may take 2-5 minutes.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all antenna cables are routed away from sharp edges and moving components
2. Verify the roof seal is completely seated with no gaps that could allow water intrusion
3. Double-check that all interior trim panels and headliner clips are fully engaged
4. Confirm all electrical connectors are locked in place and not under tension

Verification

• Access the vehicle infotainment system and verify GPS signal acquisition (check navigation screen for satellite lock)
• Verify cellular connectivity by checking the signal strength indicator on the main screen
• If equipped, test WiFi hotspot functionality to confirm antenna is operational
• Inspect the exterior antenna installation for proper alignment and secure mounting
• Check the interior headliner for proper fitment with no sagging or gaps
• Perform a test drive to verify GPS navigation functions correctly with accurate position tracking
• Monitor for any water leaks during the next car wash or rain event

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