Replace worn or damaged subframe bushings on the 2024 Rivian EDV 500, which involves supporting the subframe, removing fasteners, and installing new bushings to restore proper suspension geometry and reduce noise/vibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Front subframe bushing set (if replacing front) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rear subframe bushing set (if replacing rear) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Subframe mounting bolts (if corroded or damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind wheels that will remain on ground
3. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Raise vehicle using appropriate lift points and support securely on jack stands at all four corners
5. Remove all four wheels and set aside
6. Spray all subframe fasteners with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 15-20 minutes
7. Take photographs of subframe positioning, electrical routing, and brake line placement for reference
8. Verify high-voltage system status indicator shows system is safe (consult service manual for specific procedure)

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect subframe-mounted components
   Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the subframe or components mounted to it. Remove any brake line brackets or clips attached to the subframe. Label all connections for reassembly. On the EDV 500, pay special attention to motor position sensors and temperature sensors on the drive units.
2. 2

   Support the subframe
   Position a transmission jack or adjustable subframe support directly under the center of the subframe. Raise the jack until it just contacts the subframe with light pressure. Place wooden blocks between the jack and subframe to distribute load and prevent damage to aluminum components. Ensure the support is stable and centered.
3. 3

   Remove steering components (front subframe only)
   If replacing front subframe bushings, disconnect the steering rack from the subframe. Remove the steering rack mounting bolts and carefully support the rack with wire or a separate stand, ensuring no stress is placed on the steering column or hydraulic lines. Do not allow the rack to hang by the steering shaft.
4. 4

   Disconnect control arms and links
   Remove the fasteners connecting the control arms to the subframe. For the EDV 500, this includes both upper and lower control arm mounting points. Keep hardware organized by location. Support control arms with wire to prevent stress on ball joints and CV axles. Note the position of any alignment shims or eccentric bolts.
5. 5

   Disconnect drive unit mounts (if applicable)
   If the drive unit (motor) is mounted to the subframe being serviced, remove the drive unit mounting bolts. The dual motor AWD system has both front and rear drive units. Support the drive unit with a separate jack or stand to prevent stress on the CV axles and electrical connections. Do not allow the drive unit to hang freely.
6. 6

   Remove subframe mounting bolts
   With all components disconnected and the subframe properly supported, locate all subframe-to-chassis mounting bolts. Typically there are 4-6 main bolts. Begin removing bolts in a cross pattern, starting with the rear bolts first, then front. Remove bolts gradually and evenly, lowering the jack slightly between each bolt removal to maintain control. Have an assistant help guide the subframe if possible.
7. 7

   Lower and remove subframe
   Slowly and carefully lower the transmission jack while guiding the subframe down and away from the vehicle. Watch for any remaining connections, wiring, or hoses. Once clear of the vehicle, move the subframe to a stable work surface. Inspect the subframe for any damage, corrosion, or cracks while it is removed.
8. 8

   Remove old bushings
   Using a bushing press kit or hydraulic press, press out the old bushings from the subframe. Note the orientation of each bushing before removal, as some may have specific alignment marks or directional installation. Clean the bushing bores thoroughly with a wire brush and solvent, removing all rubber debris, corrosion, and old lubricant. Inspect bores for damage or elongation.
9. 9

   Install new bushings
   Apply a thin coat of supplied lubricant or soapy water (not petroleum-based products) to the new bushings and bore surfaces. Position the new bushing at the bore entrance, ensuring correct orientation based on any alignment marks or voids. Using the bushing press, carefully press the new bushing into place until fully seated and flush with the subframe mounting surface. Verify that any voids or alignment features are correctly positioned per OEM specifications.
10. 10

    Reinstall subframe
    Position the subframe on the transmission jack and carefully raise it into position under the vehicle. Align the subframe mounting holes with the chassis mounting points. Thread in all subframe mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, tighten them gradually in a cross pattern. Since no torque specifications are available in the database, consult the factory service manual for proper torque values before final tightening.
11. 11

    Reconnect drive unit mounts
    Reconnect the drive unit mounting bolts, ensuring the drive unit is properly aligned with its mounting points. Verify that no wiring or coolant lines are pinched. Consult factory service manual for drive unit mount torque specifications as none are available in this database.
12. 12

    Reconnect control arms and steering
    Reattach all control arms to the subframe using the original mounting locations. Reinstall any alignment shims or eccentric bolts in their original positions. If the steering rack was removed, reinstall it to the subframe, ensuring proper alignment. Consult factory service manual for all suspension component torque specifications.
13. 13

    Reconnect all electrical and hydraulic connections
    Reconnect all electrical connectors, brake line brackets, and any other components that were disconnected. Use your reference photos to ensure correct routing and positioning. Verify all connectors are fully seated and locked. Check that no wiring is pinched or stressed.
14. 14

    Reinstall wheels and lower vehicle
    Reinstall all four wheels and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle from jack stands to the ground. Once the vehicle weight is on the suspension, torque all lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Consult factory service manual for wheel lug nut torque specification.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and perform system checks
    Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Turn on the ignition without starting and check for any warning lights or fault codes. Cycle the steering lock-to-lock to verify proper steering operation. Test brake pedal feel. If available, use Rivian diagnostic software to verify all systems are communicating properly and no high-voltage isolation faults are present.

Reassembly

1. All suspension fasteners should be torqued to specification with the vehicle at normal ride height (wheels on ground and suspension loaded)
2. Do not fully tighten subframe bushing through-bolts until the vehicle weight is resting on the suspension to prevent bushing preload issues
3. Verify all electrical connectors are properly seated and locked into place
4. Check that brake lines have proper clearance and are not in contact with the subframe or suspension components through full range of motion

Verification

• Perform a complete visual inspection under the vehicle to verify all fasteners are installed and tight
• Check for any fluid leaks, particularly around brake lines and coolant connections
• Perform a test drive at low speed in a safe area, listening for any abnormal noises or vibrations
• Check steering response and verify no unusual feedback or looseness
• Have a professional four-wheel alignment performed, as subframe removal will affect suspension geometry
• Monitor the vehicle information system for any new fault codes or warning lights for the first several drives
• After 50-100 miles, re-inspect all subframe and suspension fasteners for proper torque and no loosening

More procedures for this vehicle