This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the dimmer switch (headlight dimmer/turn signal stalk) on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Dimmer switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column trim clips × 1 — Replacement clips as needed

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Power off the vehicle completely using the center screen
3. Open the driver's door and leave it open for battery access
4. Locate and disconnect the 12V battery negative terminal in the front trunk compartment
5. Wait minimum 5 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
6. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and furthest out position for access
7. Verify ignition is off and all electrical systems are inactive

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Locate the lower steering column cover beneath the steering wheel. Remove the two T20 Torx screws on the underside of the cover. Carefully pull the lower cover away from the column, releasing the retention clips. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the hood release or other accessories if present.
2. 2

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, locate the T20 Torx screws securing the upper steering column cover (typically 2-3 screws). Remove these screws and carefully separate the upper cover from the steering column. Work slowly to avoid breaking trim clips. Set covers aside in a clean area.
3. 3

   Access dimmer switch mounting area
   With both steering column covers removed, you will now have clear access to the dimmer switch assembly mounted on the left side of the steering column. Identify the wire harness routing and connector locations. Take photos of the current configuration for reference during reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect dimmer switch electrical connector
   Locate the main electrical connector for the dimmer switch assembly. Press the locking tab on the connector and carefully pull it straight away from the switch. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If there are multiple connectors (for turn signals, wipers, cruise control), disconnect all connectors attached to the switch assembly.
5. 5

   Remove dimmer switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting fasteners securing the dimmer switch to the steering column. These are typically two T25 Torx screws or 10mm bolts. Remove these fasteners completely and set aside. Support the switch assembly as you remove the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
6. 6

   Remove dimmer switch assembly
   With all fasteners removed, carefully slide the dimmer switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a mounting bracket that needs to be angled or rotated to clear the column. Guide any attached wiring through the column housing as you remove the assembly. Inspect the mounting area for any damage or debris.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare new dimmer switch
   Compare the new dimmer switch assembly to the old unit to verify correct replacement part. Check that all connector pins are straight and undamaged. If the mounting bracket is separate, transfer it from the old switch to the new one if required. Clean the mounting surface on the steering column with a lint-free cloth.
8. 8

   Install new dimmer switch assembly
   Position the new dimmer switch assembly onto the steering column, routing any attached wiring through the column housing. Align the mounting holes with the column bracket. Install the mounting fasteners finger-tight first to ensure proper alignment, then tighten securely. Ensure the switch operates smoothly through its full range of motion without binding.
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connectors
   Connect the electrical connector(s) to the new dimmer switch assembly. Ensure each connector is fully seated and the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on each connector to verify secure connection. Double-check against your reference photos to ensure correct connector placement.
10. 10

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the upper steering column cover onto the column, ensuring all clips align properly. Install and tighten the T20 Torx screws. Position the lower cover, reconnect any electrical connectors for accessories, and snap the lower cover into place. Install and tighten the lower cover T20 Torx screws. Verify all trim pieces are secure and properly seated.
11. 11

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front trunk and reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Close the front trunk.
12. 12

    Initialize and test dimmer switch
    Enter the vehicle and power on the vehicle systems. The vehicle may need to complete a startup sequence. Test the dimmer switch through all functions: high beam, low beam, flash-to-pass, turn signal left, turn signal right, and hazard lights. Verify all functions operate correctly and indicator lights on the instrument cluster respond appropriately.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim clips are properly seated and steering column covers are flush with no gaps
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
3. Check that no wiring is pinched between trim panels or steering column components
4. Confirm steering wheel adjustment functions still operate properly after reassembly

Verification

• Test high beam function - verify blue indicator light on instrument cluster illuminates
• Test low beam function - verify headlights switch between high and low
• Test flash-to-pass function - verify momentary high beam activation
• Test left and right turn signals - verify proper flashing and audible click
• Test hazard light function - verify all turn signals flash simultaneously
• Verify turn signal self-cancel function works when turning steering wheel
• Check that all other steering column controls (wipers, cruise control) still function properly
• Inspect for any dash warning lights related to lighting systems

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