Parking Brake Actuator

This procedure replaces the parking brake actuator on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500, which is an electric parking brake system component that applies and releases the rear brake calipers electronically.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Parking brake actuator assembly × 1 — Use OEM Rivian part number
• Actuator mounting fasteners (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector seal (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Fluids

• DOT 4 Brake Fluid — 0.5 qt

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels
2. Verify the 12V battery is fully charged (critical for EPB system operation)
3. Connect Rivian diagnostic tool and verify communication with parking brake control module
4. Document any stored fault codes before beginning work
5. Put on high-voltage safety gloves if working near HV components (orange cables)
6. Verify parking brake actuator part number matches vehicle configuration

Procedure

1. 1

   Enter EPB service mode
   Using the Rivian diagnostic tool, navigate to the parking brake system module. Select 'Service Mode' or 'EPB Retraction Mode' to electronically retract the parking brake actuator to its full release position. This is essential before removing the actuator. Verify on the scan tool that the command was successful and the actuator has fully retracted. Do not proceed if this step fails - investigate electrical issues first.
2. 2

   Disable high-voltage system
   Following Rivian service procedures, place the high-voltage system in service mode to disable the drive motors and high-voltage circuits. This typically involves accessing the vehicle settings through the center display and selecting 'Service Mode', then waiting for confirmation that HV system is disabled. Verify the orange service disconnect indicator is displayed.
3. 3

   Disconnect 12V battery
   Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery located in the front compartment. Wait at least 2 minutes for all vehicle systems to power down completely. This prevents accidental EPB activation during service.
4. 4

   Raise and secure vehicle
   Lift the vehicle using appropriate lift points specified in the Rivian service manual (typically reinforced frame rails marked with lift point indicators). Raise the vehicle to a comfortable working height. If using jack stands, place them at designated support points. Remove the rear wheel on the side requiring actuator replacement.
5. 5

   Access parking brake actuator
   The parking brake actuator is typically integrated into or mounted adjacent to the rear brake caliper. Remove any protective covers or shields that obstruct access to the actuator and its electrical connector. Clean the area around the actuator with brake cleaner to prevent contamination.
6. 6

   Disconnect actuator electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the parking brake actuator. Release the connector lock tab (usually a sliding tab or clip) and carefully disconnect the electrical connector. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion or damage. If the connector is sealed with a secondary locking clip, remove that first.
   ⚠Do not pull on the wires. Always grasp the connector body to avoid damaging the wiring harness.
7. 7

   Remove brake caliper mounting bolts
   Remove the brake caliper mounting bolts using appropriate sockets. Support the brake caliper with a wire hanger or bungee cord to prevent stress on the brake hose. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line. Note the original position and orientation of any shims, anti-rattle clips, or spacers for reinstallation.
   ⚠Never allow the brake caliper to hang unsupported by the brake hose, as this can cause internal hose damage and brake failure.
8. 8

   Remove parking brake actuator mounting fasteners
   Locate and remove the fasteners securing the parking brake actuator to the brake caliper or mounting bracket. These are typically located on the rear of the caliper assembly. Note the fastener locations and any washers or spacers. Some designs may have the actuator integrated into the caliper; in this case, the entire caliper assembly may need replacement.
9. 9

   Remove failed actuator
   Carefully separate the parking brake actuator from the caliper or mounting bracket. The actuator may be connected via a mechanical linkage or directly threaded into the caliper piston assembly. Note the exact orientation and position of the actuator for proper installation of the replacement. Inspect the mounting surfaces for damage or corrosion.
10. 10

    Inspect caliper and mounting points
    With the actuator removed, inspect the caliper piston, mounting threads, and mechanical linkages for wear, corrosion, or damage. Clean all mounting surfaces thoroughly with brake cleaner. Check that the caliper piston moves freely (it should be in the retracted position from step 1). If the piston is seized or damaged, the caliper assembly requires replacement.
11. 11

    Install new parking brake actuator
    Position the new parking brake actuator in the exact orientation noted during removal. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize compound to mounting threads if specified by Rivian service procedures (verify this does not interfere with electrical grounding). Install mounting fasteners hand-tight first, then tighten in a cross-pattern if multiple fasteners are present. Without torque specifications provided, tighten to manufacturer specification using Rivian service documentation.
    ⚠️Incorrect torque or orientation of the parking brake actuator can result in parking brake failure. Consult Rivian service documentation for exact torque specifications before final tightening.
12. 12

    Reinstall brake caliper
    Position the brake caliper back over the brake rotor and align with mounting points. Reinstall all anti-rattle clips, shims, and hardware in their original positions. Install caliper mounting bolts and tighten to manufacturer specification (consult Rivian service documentation for torque values).
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Connect the electrical connector to the new parking brake actuator, ensuring it seats fully with an audible click. Verify the connector lock tab is properly engaged. If equipped with a secondary lock, install it. Gently tug on the connector to ensure it is secure.
14. 14

    Reinstall wheel and reconnect battery
    Reinstall the rear wheel and tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Reconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery. Do not lower the vehicle yet - verification steps must be completed first.
15. 15

    Perform EPB initialization and calibration
    Using the Rivian diagnostic tool, exit service mode and perform the parking brake actuator initialization/calibration procedure. This typically involves commanding the EPB through multiple apply and release cycles while monitoring actuator current and position. Follow all prompts from the diagnostic software. This step is critical for proper EPB operation.
    ⚠️The parking brake system will not function correctly without proper calibration. Do not return the vehicle to service if calibration fails.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any protective covers or shields removed during access
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Check brake fluid level in master cylinder reservoir and top off with DOT 4 fluid if needed (actuator service should not cause significant fluid loss, but verify level)
4. Torque wheel lug nuts to Rivian specification in a star pattern after lowering vehicle

Verification

• With the vehicle still raised, use the diagnostic tool to command the parking brake to apply and release several times, listening for normal actuator motor operation and verifying smooth operation
• Check for diagnostic trouble codes and verify none are present
• Lower the vehicle to the ground
• With the vehicle on level ground, apply the parking brake using the vehicle controls and attempt to push the vehicle - it should not move
• Release the parking brake and verify the brake release warning light extinguishes
• Perform a low-speed test drive in a safe area, applying and releasing the parking brake multiple times to verify proper operation
• Verify the parking brake holds the vehicle on an incline
• Perform a final diagnostic scan to ensure no fault codes are present
• If any warnings, unusual noises, or improper operation is observed, do not return the vehicle to service - have it inspected by a Rivian service center

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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