This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the headlight switch assembly on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500, including dashboard trim removal and electrical connector disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Headlight switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Dashboard trim clips (if damaged) × 5 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure vehicle is powered off completely and key fob is at least 15 feet away from vehicle
3. Open driver's door and keep open throughout procedure
4. Locate 12V battery access panel in front storage compartment
5. Disconnect negative terminal of 12V battery using 10mm socket
6. Wait minimum 10 minutes for system capacitor discharge
7. Take photos of dashboard area and switch location for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dashboard trim panel
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry the lower dashboard trim panel below the steering column. Start at the bottom edge and work upward. There are typically 6-8 push-type retaining clips. Pull panel away gently once all clips are released and set aside in a safe location.
2. 2

   Remove knee bolster panel
   Locate and remove four T25 Torx screws securing the knee bolster panel (the panel directly above the lower trim). Two screws are at the top edge and two at the bottom. Carefully pull panel forward and disconnect any electrical connectors for ambient lighting if equipped. Set panel aside.
3. 3

   Access headlight switch module area
   With knee bolster removed, you now have access to the left side of the steering column shroud. Remove the left side shroud cover by removing three T20 Torx screws. The headlight switch module is integrated into the dashboard panel to the left of the steering wheel.
4. 4

   Remove left dashboard end cap
   Open driver's door fully. Locate the left dashboard end cap (the trim piece visible when door is open). Use trim removal tool to carefully pry it away from dashboard. It is secured by 3-4 clips. Pull end cap straight away from dashboard once clips are released.
5. 5

   Remove dashboard side trim panel
   With end cap removed, locate and remove two T20 Torx screws securing the left side dashboard trim panel. Carefully pull panel away from dashboard, releasing any remaining clips. This panel contains the headlight switch assembly.
6. 6

   Document and disconnect electrical connectors
   Take clear photos of the headlight switch wiring harness connections. Locate the main electrical connector on the back of the headlight switch module. Press the locking tab and carefully pull connector straight away from switch. If equipped with ambient light sensor, disconnect that connector as well using the same method.
7. 7

   Remove headlight switch assembly mounting fasteners
   Locate three T20 Torx screws securing the headlight switch assembly to the dashboard trim panel bracket. Remove all three screws and retain them for reinstallation. Note the position of any grounding tabs or brackets.
8. 8

   Remove headlight switch assembly
   With all fasteners removed and connectors disconnected, carefully pull the headlight switch assembly away from the mounting bracket. Check for any additional clips or retainers that may still be holding the switch. Remove switch completely from vehicle.
9. 9

   Inspect mounting area and connectors
   Examine the mounting bracket for any damage or cracks. Inspect electrical connectors for corrosion, bent pins, or damage. Use electrical contact cleaner on connector terminals if any corrosion is present. Allow to dry completely before proceeding.
10. 10

    Install new headlight switch assembly
    Position the new headlight switch assembly into the mounting bracket, aligning the three mounting screw holes. Ensure any grounding tabs are properly positioned. Install the three T20 Torx screws and tighten securely in a cross pattern. Do not overtighten as the mounting points are plastic.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Referring to photos taken during disassembly, reconnect the main headlight switch electrical connector, ensuring it clicks into place and the locking tab engages. Reconnect ambient light sensor connector if equipped. Gently tug on connectors to verify secure connection.
12. 12

    Reinstall dashboard trim panels
    Reinstall the left side dashboard trim panel containing the headlight switch, ensuring all alignment pins are seated properly. Install the two T20 Torx screws. Snap the dashboard end cap back into place, pressing firmly until all clips engage. Reinstall the left steering column shroud with three T20 Torx screws.
13. 13

    Reinstall knee bolster and lower trim
    Reconnect any ambient lighting connectors to the knee bolster panel. Position panel and install four T25 Torx screws. Align lower dashboard trim panel and press firmly to engage all push-type clips, starting at the top and working down. Verify all panels are flush and properly seated.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are properly seated and aligned before final inspection
2. Verify no tools or parts are left in dashboard area
3. Check that all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
4. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal and tighten to 10 ft-lbs if torque specification available

Verification

• With 12V battery reconnected, power on the vehicle and verify the instrument cluster displays no warning lights related to lighting system
• Test headlight switch through all positions: OFF, parking lights, headlights, and auto mode if equipped
• Verify both low and high beams operate correctly in all switch positions
• Test daytime running lights function properly
• Confirm fog lights operate if equipped and switch has fog light control
• Check that instrument panel dimmer function works properly if integrated into switch
• Verify turn signal indicators display correctly on instrument cluster
• Test automatic headlight function by covering ambient light sensor if equipped
• Inspect all reinstalled trim panels for proper fit, secure attachment, and correct alignment
• Take vehicle for short test drive to confirm all lighting functions work correctly and no rattles are present from trim panels

More procedures for this vehicle