This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the center console radio/head unit on the 2024 Rivian EDV 500 commercial delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Center display/head unit assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel clips (if damaged) × 1 — Rivian OEM clip set

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Power down all vehicle systems completely
3. Wait 5 minutes for capacitors to discharge
4. Disconnect negative terminal on 12V auxiliary battery located under hood
5. Document current radio settings and user preferences if possible
6. Ensure work area is clean and free of debris to prevent contamination of connectors

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower center console trim
   Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry the lower center console trim panel starting from the bottom rear edge. Work your way forward, releasing the retaining clips. There are typically 6-8 clips securing this panel. Pull the panel away and set aside in a safe location.
2. 2

   Remove center console side panels
   Remove the left and right side panels of the center console. Use trim tools to release clips on each side panel. These panels wrap around the sides of the console and may have 4-6 clips each. Carefully pull outward to disengage.
3. 3

   Access head unit mounting fasteners
   With lower trim removed, locate the T25 Torx screws securing the head unit mounting bracket. There are typically 4 screws: two on the bottom and two accessible from the sides. Remove all mounting screws and place in magnetic tray.
4. 4

   Disconnect HVAC control panel (if equipped)
   If the vehicle has integrated HVAC controls below the head unit, carefully disconnect the ribbon cable or connector from the back of the HVAC control panel. Press the locking tab and gently pull the connector straight out.
5. 5

   Release head unit from mounting bracket
   Gently pull the head unit forward from the dash opening. Support the unit with one hand while pulling. The unit should slide forward approximately 2-3 inches. Do not force; if resistance is felt, verify all fasteners are removed.
6. 6

   Disconnect primary display connector
   Locate the main display harness connector on the back of the head unit (typically a large multi-pin connector). Press the locking tab or release lever and carefully disconnect the primary power and data connector. Note the connector orientation for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Disconnect antenna and auxiliary connections
   Disconnect the GPS antenna connector, AM/FM antenna cable, and any auxiliary connectors (USB, cellular modem if equipped). The antenna cables typically have threaded connectors that must be unscrewed. Note routing of all cables for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove head unit from vehicle
   With all connectors disconnected, carefully remove the head unit assembly from the dash opening. Support the unit with both hands and lift straight out. Place the old unit on a clean, static-free surface if being reused or returned.
9. 9

   Prepare new head unit
   Remove new head unit from packaging. Inspect all connector ports for shipping covers or protective tape. Remove any protective materials. Verify the new unit matches the part number of the removed unit.
10. 10

    Connect new head unit connectors
    Position the new head unit near the dash opening. Connect all harness connectors in reverse order: antenna cables first (thread and hand-tighten), then auxiliary connectors, and finally the main power/data connector. Ensure each connector clicks or locks into place.
11. 11

    Install head unit into dash
    Carefully guide the new head unit into the dash opening, ensuring all connected cables route properly behind the unit without pinching. Slide the unit back until it is flush with the mounting bracket. Verify proper alignment before securing.
12. 12

    Secure mounting fasteners
    Install the four T25 Torx mounting screws through the head unit bracket into the mounting points. Tighten screws in a cross pattern (alternating corners) to ensure even pressure. Snug firmly but do not overtighten.
13. 13

    Reconnect HVAC control panel
    If HVAC controls were disconnected, reconnect the ribbon cable or connector to the HVAC control panel. Ensure the connector is fully seated and any locking tab engages.
14. 14

    Reinstall console trim panels
    Reinstall center console trim panels in reverse order of removal. Start with side panels, then lower center trim. Align clips carefully and press firmly until each clip engages with an audible click. Verify all panels are flush and secure.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative terminal on the 12V auxiliary battery. Power on the vehicle and allow the head unit to complete its boot sequence. This may take 2-3 minutes on first startup.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all trim panels are fully seated and all clips engaged before testing
2. Verify no gaps exist between trim panels and dash surfaces
3. Check that all fasteners have been reinstalled
4. Confirm no tools or parts remain in the work area

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and verify the head unit displays the startup screen without errors
• Test touchscreen responsiveness across all areas of the display
• Verify AM/FM radio reception and GPS signal acquisition
• Test all audio sources (radio, Bluetooth, USB if equipped) and confirm sound output from all speakers
• Verify HVAC controls respond properly if integrated with head unit
• Check for any fault codes using vehicle diagnostics menu
• Confirm backup camera displays properly when vehicle is placed in reverse
• Test connectivity features including Bluetooth pairing and phone integration
• Verify all trim panels are secure with no rattles during test operation

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