This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the steering wheel on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, including disabling the airbag system and disconnecting electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Steering wheel (if replacing) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel airbag module (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering wheel trim clips (as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake
2. Ensure the front wheels are pointing straight ahead and the steering wheel is centered
3. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery located under the hood
4. Wait a minimum of 10 minutes for the airbag system capacitors to discharge
5. Cover the fenders with protective material to prevent damage
6. Photograph the steering wheel orientation and any electrical connector positions for reference during reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove airbag module access covers
   Locate the small access holes on both sides of the steering wheel. Insert a flathead screwdriver or trim tool into each hole to release the airbag module retaining clips. Apply gentle pressure to disengage the spring clips on each side.
2. 2

   Remove airbag module
   Carefully pull the airbag module away from the steering wheel hub. Support the module with one hand while disconnecting the electrical connectors on the back. Press the connector release tabs and pull straight out. Place the airbag module face-up in a safe location away from the work area.
   ⚠️Never place the airbag module face-down. Always set it face-up on a clean, flat surface.
3. 3

   Disconnect horn and control module connectors
   Locate and disconnect the horn wire connector and any steering wheel control module connectors behind where the airbag was mounted. Press the locking tabs and pull the connectors straight out. Label or photograph connector positions if necessary.
4. 4

   Mark steering wheel position
   Use a paint pen or marker to make alignment marks on the steering wheel and steering shaft. Mark both the wheel position and the specific clocking of the shaft to ensure proper reassembly alignment.
5. 5

   Remove steering wheel retaining bolt
   Locate the center steering wheel retaining bolt. Use the appropriate socket to remove this bolt completely. Keep the bolt and any washers in a safe location for reinstallation. Note: Without factory torque specifications, you will need to reference the service manual or measure the existing torque before removal.
6. 6

   Secure clockspring mechanism
   Before removing the steering wheel, locate the clockspring mechanism behind it. Use tape or wire ties to secure the clockspring in its current centered position. This prevents the clockspring ribbon from becoming unwound during wheel removal.
   ⚠If the clockspring rotates and becomes off-center, the airbag system will malfunction and the clockspring may be damaged when the wheel is reinstalled.
7. 7

   Remove steering wheel
   Install the steering wheel puller according to the tool manufacturer's instructions. Thread the puller bolts into the threaded holes in the steering wheel. Gradually tighten the center screw of the puller while applying even pressure. The steering wheel should release from the steering shaft. If it does not release with moderate force, double-check that all fasteners have been removed and apply penetrating oil to the shaft splines if necessary.
8. 8

   Inspect steering shaft and clockspring
   With the steering wheel removed, inspect the steering shaft splines for damage or wear. Check the clockspring for any visible damage, proper centering, and secure mounting. Ensure the clockspring alignment marks are visible and the mechanism remains secured in the centered position.
9. 9

   Install new or replacement steering wheel
   Verify the clockspring is still centered and secured. Align the steering wheel with the alignment marks made during disassembly. Slide the steering wheel onto the steering shaft, ensuring the splines engage properly and the wheel is fully seated. The wheel should slide on with minimal resistance if properly aligned.
10. 10

    Install steering wheel retaining bolt
    Install the steering wheel retaining bolt and washer. Tighten to the appropriate specification using a torque wrench. If factory specifications are unavailable, consult the Rivian service manual or dealer for the correct torque value. This is a critical fastener for steering control and safety.
11. 11

    Remove clockspring securing device
    Remove the tape or wire ties that were holding the clockspring in the centered position. Verify the clockspring moves freely and is still properly aligned with its center position marks.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all steering wheel electrical connectors including horn, steering wheel controls, and any other disconnected harnesses. Ensure each connector clicks into place and is fully seated. Verify no wires are pinched or strained.
13. 13

    Reinstall airbag module
    Reconnect the airbag module electrical connectors. Carefully align the airbag module with the steering wheel hub and press it into place until the retaining clips on both sides engage with an audible click. Verify the module is secure and flush with the steering wheel.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery
2. Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the vehicle and verify the airbag warning light follows the normal sequence (illuminates briefly then turns off after approximately 6 seconds)
3. Test all steering wheel controls including horn, cruise control, audio controls, and any other integrated switches
4. Verify steering wheel position matches the straight-ahead wheel position
5. Clean any tools or materials from the vehicle interior

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no airbag warning lights remain illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock to verify full range of motion and no binding or unusual noises
• Test the horn function by pressing the horn button
• Test all steering wheel-mounted controls to ensure proper operation
• Verify the steering wheel is properly centered when driving straight
• If any airbag warning lights persist, use a diagnostic scan tool to check for fault codes in the airbag system
• Take a short test drive to confirm proper steering operation and control functionality

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