This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear coil springs on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500 dual motor AWD electric delivery van, requiring suspension disassembly and spring compression.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rear coil spring (driver side) × 1 — Use OEM specification - Rivian part
• Rear coil spring (passenger side) × 1 — Use OEM specification - Rivian part
• Spring isolator pad (upper) × 2 — Replace if worn or damaged
• Spring isolator pad (lower) × 2 — Replace if worn or damaged
• Shock absorber lower mounting hardware × 1 — Replace if corroded

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid surface capable of supporting commercial vehicle weight. Engage parking brake and chock front wheels securely.
2. Using Rivian service mode (if available via infotainment), disable air suspension or ride height adjustment systems if equipped.
3. Open hood and disconnect 12V battery negative terminal. Wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge.
4. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove yet).
5. Apply penetrating oil to all rear suspension fasteners including shock absorber mounts, control arm bolts, and spring seats. Allow 15-30 minutes to penetrate.
6. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack at manufacturer-specified jacking points. Support vehicle securely on jack stands rated for at least 3 tons each, positioned at frame lift points.
7. Remove both rear wheels completely and set aside.
8. Inspect suspension components for excessive rust, damage, or seized fasteners. If fasteners appear severely corroded, consider professional service to avoid breaking critical hardware.
9. Photograph suspension assembly from multiple angles for reference during reassembly.

Procedure

1. 1

   Support rear axle assembly
   Position floor jack under rear axle housing or trailing arm directly beneath the spring mounting area. Raise jack until it just contacts and begins to support the weight, but do not lift the suspension. This prevents the axle from dropping suddenly when fasteners are removed. Ensure jack is stable and centered.
2. 2

   Disconnect shock absorber lower mount
   Locate the rear shock absorber lower mounting bolt. Using appropriate socket and breaker bar, remove the lower shock mounting bolt and any associated hardware. Allow shock absorber to pivot upward out of the way. Do not allow shock to hang by brake lines or wiring. Secure shock with wire or bungee cord if necessary. Note: Since no torque specifications are in the database, mark or photograph bolt position for reinstallation at equivalent tightness plus thread-locking compound.
3. 3

   Disconnect rear sway bar links (if equipped)
   If the vehicle is equipped with a rear sway bar, disconnect the sway bar end links from the trailing arm or axle housing on the side being serviced. This provides additional clearance for spring removal. Remove upper or lower link bolt as accessibility permits. Support sway bar to prevent damage.
4. 4

   Lower suspension to extend spring
   Slowly and carefully lower the floor jack supporting the rear axle. Monitor all suspension components, brake lines, and ABS wiring as the axle drops. Lower the suspension only until the coil spring becomes loose but is still captured between upper and lower spring seats. Do not allow suspension to drop to full extension as this may damage brake hoses or wiring harnesses.
5. 5

   Install spring compressor
   With spring partially extended, install heavy-duty spring compressor tools following manufacturer instructions. Install compressor hooks or plates on alternating coils (typically every 3rd coil) ensuring equal engagement on both sides of spring. Verify compressor tools are properly seated and aligned. The spring should be positioned so compressor can safely compress it for removal.
6. 6

   Compress coil spring
   Gradually and evenly tighten spring compressor tools in small increments, alternating between compressor sides to maintain even compression. Compress spring until it is significantly shorter than installed height and all tension is relieved from upper and lower spring seats. Verify spring is stable and compressor tools remain properly engaged. Spring should compress approximately 4-6 inches depending on original length.
7. 7

   Remove compressed spring assembly
   With spring fully compressed and tension relieved from seats, carefully maneuver compressed spring assembly out from between upper frame seat and lower axle seat. The spring may need to be rotated or angled to clear suspension components. Keep hands and body clear of compressed spring throughout removal. Set compressed spring assembly in safe location away from work area.
8. 8

   Inspect and clean spring seats
   Inspect upper (frame-mounted) and lower (axle-mounted) spring seats for corrosion, damage, or debris. Clean both seats thoroughly with wire brush. Check spring isolator pads (rubber cushions) on both seats for cracking, compression set, or deterioration. Replace isolator pads if damaged. Inspect for any damaged brake lines or wiring that may have been chafed by spring.
9. 9

   Prepare new spring for installation
   Install new upper and lower spring isolator pads on new coil spring if not pre-installed. Position spring compressor tools on new spring in same configuration used for removal. Compress new spring to approximately same compressed length as removed spring. Verify compressor tools are secure and evenly engaged before handling.
10. 10

    Install new compressed spring
    Carefully position compressed new spring between upper frame seat and lower axle seat. Align spring ends with locating tabs or orientation marks on spring seats. Ensure spring isolator pads remain properly positioned during installation. Spring end orientation is critical - flat ground end typically faces down toward axle, and pigtail end faces up toward frame.
11. 11

    Raise suspension to seat spring
    Slowly raise floor jack to lift rear axle assembly. Monitor spring alignment as suspension compresses. Continue raising until suspension reaches normal ride height position and spring seats are properly loaded. Spring should be centered on both upper and lower seats. Do not fully release spring compressor tools yet.
12. 12

    Release spring compressor gradually
    With suspension at normal ride height and spring properly seated, gradually and evenly loosen spring compressor tools in small increments. Monitor spring position continuously to ensure it remains properly seated. Once all compressor tension is released and spring is fully supporting suspension load, carefully remove compressor tools. Verify spring is properly seated on both upper and lower seats.
13. 13

    Reconnect shock absorber and sway bar
    Reinstall shock absorber lower mounting bolt and hardware. Since no torque specifications are available in database, tighten to snug fit plus approximately 1/4 turn, ensuring bolt threads are fully engaged and connection is solid. Apply thread-locking compound per manufacturer specification. Reconnect sway bar end links if previously disconnected, using same tightening procedure.
14. 14

    Repeat for opposite side
    Perform steps 1-13 for the opposite rear spring. Both rear springs should always be replaced as a pair to maintain balanced suspension characteristics and ride height. Use identical procedures and verify spring orientation matches first side.

Reassembly

1. Verify both rear springs are properly seated on upper and lower spring seats with isolator pads correctly positioned.
2. Confirm all suspension fasteners are tightened and secured. Due to lack of specific torque specifications in database, recommend consulting Rivian service documentation or using professional-grade reference materials for proper torque values.
3. Check that brake lines and ABS wheel speed sensor wiring are properly routed and secured, with no signs of stretching, pinching, or contact with suspension components.
4. Reinstall both rear wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts in star pattern.
5. Lower vehicle carefully from jack stands to ground. Remove floor jack.
6. With vehicle weight on ground, torque wheel lug nuts to specification in proper star pattern (torque spec not provided in database - consult owner's manual or door jamb sticker).
7. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal.
8. If vehicle is equipped with electronic suspension or ride height systems, recalibrate using Rivian service mode or diagnostic tool.

Verification

• Start vehicle and verify no warning lights related to suspension, ABS, or traction control systems are illuminated. Clear any service mode warnings if applicable.
• Perform visual inspection under vehicle to confirm springs are properly seated and all suspension components are correctly installed with no loose fasteners.
• Test drive vehicle in safe area at low speed (under 25 mph) and verify suspension operates normally with no unusual noises, pulling, or handling issues.
• Check ride height measurements at all four corners of vehicle. Rear ride height should be equal side-to-side within 1/4 inch. Compare to manufacturer specifications if available.
• Perform bounce test at each rear corner - press down firmly on rear bumper and release. Suspension should rebound once and settle without excessive oscillation.
• Inspect for any fluid leaks around shock absorbers or suspension components after test drive.
• Schedule professional wheel alignment within 50 miles of completion, as suspension work may have affected alignment settings, especially on a heavy commercial vehicle.

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