Perform a software update on the Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van using the OEM diagnostic interface to update vehicle control systems, battery management, and drive unit firmware.

Warnings

Tools required

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground in a well-ventilated area with stable temperature between 50-90°F
2. Ensure high-voltage battery state of charge is at least 50% (preferably 80% or higher)
3. Connect 12V auxiliary battery maintainer to prevent voltage drop during extended update process
4. Verify stable internet connection is available for downloading software packages
5. Download latest Rivian Service Toolbox software and ensure laptop is fully charged or plugged in
6. Obtain current software version numbers from vehicle for reference using instrument cluster menu: Settings > Software > About
7. Clear any non-critical DTCs and verify no active critical faults are present in vehicle systems
8. Ensure all vehicle doors are closed, vehicle is in Park, and parking brake is engaged

Procedure

1. 1

   Connect battery maintainer and verify auxiliary power
   Connect the 12V battery maintainer to the auxiliary battery located in the front compartment. Verify voltage is between 12.5-14.5V using a multimeter at the battery terminals. This prevents voltage drop during the update which can interrupt module programming.
2. 2

   Locate and access diagnostic port
   The OBD-II diagnostic port is located under the driver side dashboard, left of the steering column. Ensure the port area is clean and free of debris. The port may require removal of a small cover panel.
3. 3

   Connect diagnostic interface
   Connect the J2534 Pass-Thru device or Rivian OEM diagnostic cable to the vehicle's diagnostic port. Ensure the connection is fully seated and secure. Connect the USB end to the laptop running Rivian Service Toolbox software.
4. 4

   Power on vehicle systems
   Press the brake pedal and press the power button to place the vehicle in 'ON' mode without starting the drive units. All dashboard lights should illuminate. Do not shift out of Park. Verify instrument cluster displays normally.
5. 5

   Launch Rivian Service Toolbox and establish connection
   Open the Rivian Service Toolbox application on the laptop. Select 'Connect to Vehicle' and wait for the software to establish communication with all vehicle modules. This may take 2-3 minutes. Verify all expected modules appear in the module list (Gateway, Battery Management System, Drive Unit Controller Front, Drive Unit Controller Rear, Body Control Module, etc.).
6. 6

   Read and document current software versions
   In RST, navigate to 'Vehicle Information > Software Versions' and document all current module software versions and calibration files. Save this information as a reference. Take a screenshot or print the version report for service records.
7. 7

   Check for available updates
   In RST, select 'Software Update > Check for Updates'. The system will query the Rivian server for available updates for this specific VIN. Review the list of available updates, release notes, and any special instructions. Verify this is the correct update package for the vehicle's current configuration.
8. 8

   Download software update package
   Select 'Download Updates' to retrieve the software package from Rivian servers. Download time varies based on connection speed but typically takes 5-15 minutes. Do not interrupt the download. Verify the download completes successfully with no errors before proceeding.
9. 9

   Initiate software update process
   Select 'Install Updates' to begin programming. Review the update summary screen showing which modules will be updated. Confirm to proceed. The software will automatically program modules in the correct sequence, starting with gateway and progressing through powertrain, chassis, and body modules.
10. 10

    Monitor update progress
    Monitor the RST display showing real-time update progress for each module. Normal update time is 30-60 minutes. Do not disconnect power, diagnostic connection, or turn off the vehicle during this process. The vehicle may cycle power and the instrument cluster may turn off and on multiple times - this is normal.
11. 11

    Verify successful completion
    When all modules show 'Update Complete' status in RST, verify no errors are displayed. Navigate back to 'Vehicle Information > Software Versions' and confirm all modules now show the new software version numbers matching the update package. Document the new versions for service records.
12. 12

    Perform post-update initialization
    Select 'Vehicle Functions > Post-Update Initialization' in RST. This runs automated system checks and relearns for updated modules. The process takes approximately 5-10 minutes and includes battery management system calibration, drive unit control recalibration, and gateway synchronization.
13. 13

    Clear adaptation values if required
    If the update included major powertrain or battery management changes, select 'Service Functions > Clear Adaptive Values' to reset learned parameters. This allows the vehicle to relearn driving characteristics with the new software. Note: Only perform if specified in the update release notes.
14. 14

    Disconnect diagnostic equipment
    Once all updates and initialization procedures are complete and RST confirms successful installation, properly exit the RST software. Power off the vehicle by pressing the power button. Disconnect the diagnostic cable from the OBD-II port. Disconnect the battery maintainer.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any trim panels or covers removed to access the diagnostic port
2. Ensure all diagnostic equipment is disconnected and stowed properly
3. Remove the battery maintainer and verify auxiliary battery voltage is stable

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and verify the instrument cluster displays the new software version in Settings > Software > About
• Check for any new DTCs using the instrument cluster or RST software - no update-related codes should be present
• Verify all vehicle functions operate normally: power windows, HVAC, lighting, infotainment, driver assistance features
• Perform a short test drive to verify drive unit operation, regenerative braking, and battery management system function properly
• Confirm battery state of charge displays accurately and charging functions work correctly if charging equipment is available
• Verify all warning lights extinguish after vehicle startup and no new fault messages appear
• Document the completed software update in service records including old and new version numbers, date, and any issues encountered

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