This procedure covers the replacement of shock absorbers on the 2024 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, including safe lifting, suspension component access, and shock removal/installation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front shock absorber (if applicable) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Rear shock absorber (if applicable) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Shock mounting hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Upper shock mount bushings × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind wheels that will remain on ground
3. Access 12V battery compartment and disconnect negative terminal
4. If equipped with air suspension, enter service mode through vehicle touchscreen to depressurize and disable suspension system
5. Raise vehicle using lift or floor jack at designated lift points (refer to owner's manual for locations)
6. Support vehicle with jack stands at manufacturer-specified support points
7. Remove wheels from corners where shocks are being replaced
8. Spray penetrating oil on shock mounting bolts and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Access upper shock mounting area
   For front shocks, open the hood and locate the upper shock tower in the engine compartment. For rear shocks, remove interior trim panels or access covers in the cargo area to expose the upper shock mounts. On EDV models, rear access may require removing side cargo panel fasteners.
2. 2

   Support suspension component
   Place a jack or jack stand under the lower control arm or axle near the shock absorber location to support the suspension weight. Raise slightly to take load off the shock absorber but do not compress suspension fully.
3. 3

   Remove upper shock mounting fasteners
   Remove the upper shock mounting nut(s). On Rivian EDV, this is typically a single center nut with 2-3 alignment studs. Hold the shock shaft with a wrench if it begins to spin while loosening. Keep track of any washers, bushings, or spacers for reinstallation in correct order.
4. 4

   Remove lower shock mounting bolt
   Locate the lower shock mounting bolt which typically passes through the lower control arm or axle bracket. Remove the nut and bolt completely. Note the orientation of any washers or bushings. You may need to support the shock by hand as you remove the final fastener.
5. 5

   Remove shock absorber from vehicle
   Carefully lower or tilt the shock absorber to clear the mounting studs and remove it from the vehicle. If the shock is part of a coil-over assembly, take care not to damage brake lines or ABS sensors during removal. Inspect mounting points for damage or excessive corrosion.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean mounting surfaces
   Examine upper and lower shock mounting points for cracks, elongated holes, or damaged threads. Clean mounting surfaces with a wire brush to remove rust, dirt, and debris. Check rubber bushings in mounting points for deterioration and replace if necessary.
7. 7

   Prepare new shock absorber
   Unpack new shock absorber and verify correct part number against removed unit. Install new mounting bushings and hardware per manufacturer instructions. Do not remove any shipping straps or locks until shock is partially installed. Extend and compress shock by hand several times to verify proper operation.
8. 8

   Install new shock absorber
   Position new shock absorber into place, aligning lower mounting hole first. Insert lower mounting bolt but do not fully tighten. Align upper mounting studs with shock tower holes and guide shock into position. Remove any shipping restraints once shock is supported.
9. 9

   Install upper mounting hardware
   Install upper shock mounting bushings, washers, and nut in the correct order as removed. Thread nut onto stud by hand to ensure proper engagement. If shock shaft rotates, hold with wrench on flat sections designed for this purpose.
10. 10

    Torque all fasteners
    With suspension at normal ride height (adjust jack under control arm as needed), torque upper shock mounting nut and lower shock mounting bolt to manufacturer specifications. Since torque specs are not currently in the database, consult Rivian service manual for exact values. Typical range is 60-100 ft-lbs for lower mount and 40-60 ft-lbs for upper mount.
11. 11

    Repeat for remaining shocks
    Follow steps 1-10 for each remaining shock absorber being replaced. Rivian recommends replacing shocks in pairs per axle for balanced performance.
12. 12

    Reinstall wheels and lower vehicle
    Reinstall wheels and torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Remove jack stands and carefully lower vehicle to ground. Perform final torque on lug nuts with vehicle on ground.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any interior trim panels or access covers removed for upper shock access
2. Reconnect 12V battery negative terminal
3. If equipped with air suspension, exit service mode through vehicle touchscreen to reactivate suspension system
4. Start vehicle and verify no warning lights are displayed on instrument cluster
5. Test air suspension operation through all ride height settings if applicable

Verification

• Perform visual inspection of all shock mounting points to confirm proper hardware installation and no interference with brake lines or other components
• Test drive vehicle at various speeds and over different road surfaces to verify proper shock operation and no abnormal noises
• Check for fluid leaks around shock bodies after test drive
• Verify vehicle ride height is even side-to-side and front-to-rear
• Confirm all suspension warning lights remain off after test drive
• Schedule alignment check within 100 miles if vehicle tracking or tire wear changes are noted

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