Strut Bearing

This procedure replaces the front strut bearing (upper strut mount bearing) on a 2024 Rivian EDV 500, which is critical for steering function and vehicle safety.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Strut bearing (upper strut mount bearing) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Upper strut mount assembly (if bearing not serviceable separately) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Strut mount hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level, solid surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Access the 12V battery (located under hood) and disconnect negative terminal, wait 2 minutes for system discharge
4. Put vehicle in Service Mode if available through infotainment system to disable high-voltage systems
5. Loosen front wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
6. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack at designated lift points (refer to owner's manual for electric vehicle lift points)
7. Support vehicle on jack stands at reinforced frame rails, ensuring vehicle is stable
8. Remove front wheel completely
9. Photograph or mark strut orientation and any alignment reference points for reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect brake line and ABS sensor
   Locate the brake line bracket attached to the strut housing. Remove the brake line retaining clip or bolt without disconnecting the hydraulic line itself. Disconnect the ABS wheel speed sensor connector and remove any sensor wire brackets from the strut. Carefully route wiring away from work area.
2. 2

   Disconnect outer tie rod end
   Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the outer tie rod end ball joint. Use a ball joint separator or pickle fork to separate the tie rod from the steering knuckle. Avoid damaging the rubber boot. Count and record the number of threads visible on the tie rod for approximate alignment reference.
3. 3

   Separate lower control arm or strut-to-knuckle connection
   Locate the strut-to-knuckle pinch bolt(s) or lower control arm ball joint connection. Remove the bolt(s) securing the strut to the knuckle. If equipped with pinch-bolt design, carefully spread the knuckle clamp slightly with a pry bar while withdrawing the strut. Support the knuckle assembly to prevent damage to CV axle.
4. 4

   Access upper strut mount in engine bay
   Open hood and locate the strut tower assembly. Remove any plastic covers or trim panels covering the upper strut mount nuts. Identify the center strut shaft nut and the surrounding mount-to-tower nuts (typically 3-4 nuts). DO NOT remove the center strut shaft nut at this time.
5. 5

   Remove strut assembly from vehicle
   While supporting the strut assembly from below, remove the upper mount-to-tower nuts (NOT the center shaft nut). Carefully lower and guide the strut assembly out from the wheel well. The assembly will be heavy; use caution to avoid damaging brake lines, wiring, or body panels.
6. 6

   Install spring compressor
   Place the strut assembly in a secure vise or strut vise if available. Install the spring compressor tools on opposite sides of the coil spring (180 degrees apart), ensuring hooks or clamps are fully engaged on the spring coils and not on the last coil. Begin compressing the spring evenly, alternating between compressor sides in small increments.
   ⚠️Compress the spring SLOWLY and EVENLY. Check frequently that compressor tools are seated properly. An improperly compressed spring can release violently.
7. 7

   Remove strut shaft nut and upper mount
   Continue compressing the spring until there is no tension on the upper mount (mount should move freely). Hold the strut shaft with a wrench on the shaft flats or use a strut rod socket to prevent rotation. Remove the upper strut shaft nut. Carefully remove the upper mount assembly, noting the orientation and order of all washers, bushings, and components.
8. 8

   Inspect and replace strut bearing
   Disassemble the upper mount components to access the strut bearing. The bearing is typically located between the upper mount plates. Inspect all components for wear, cracking, or damage. If the bearing is serviceable separately, replace only the bearing; otherwise, replace the entire upper mount assembly. Clean all mounting surfaces.
9. 9

   Reassemble strut with new bearing
   Install the new strut bearing into the upper mount assembly in the correct orientation (reference photos taken during disassembly or service manual). Ensure bearing rotates smoothly without binding. Reassemble all upper mount components in the exact reverse order of removal, paying careful attention to washer and bushing orientation.
10. 10

    Install upper mount to strut shaft
    Position the assembled upper mount onto the strut shaft, ensuring proper alignment. Thread on the strut shaft nut. Hold the strut shaft stationary and tighten the nut. Since torque specifications are not available in the database, tighten to manufacturer specification from service manual or contact Rivian service for specification. Apply thread locker if specified by manufacturer.
    ⚠Without verified torque specifications, consult factory service information before final tightening. Over-tightening can damage the bearing; under-tightening risks component separation.
11. 11

    Remove spring compressor
    Verify the upper mount is fully seated and the shaft nut is tight. Slowly and evenly release the spring compressor tension, alternating between sides. Ensure the spring seats properly in both upper and lower spring seats. Once all tension is released, remove the compressor tools.
12. 12

    Reinstall strut assembly to vehicle
    Guide the strut assembly back into the wheel well and through the strut tower opening. Align the upper mount studs with the holes in the strut tower. Start all upper mount-to-tower nuts by hand. Support the lower strut assembly.
13. 13

    Connect strut to knuckle
    Align the strut with the steering knuckle. Insert the strut into the knuckle clamp or reconnect the attachment points. Install the pinch bolt(s) or fasteners. Tighten fasteners to manufacturer specifications (consult service manual as torque specs not available in database).
14. 14

    Reconnect tie rod and sensors
    Reconnect the outer tie rod end to the steering knuckle. Install and tighten the castle nut to specification, then install a new cotter pin. Reconnect the ABS wheel speed sensor connector and secure all wiring brackets to the strut. Reinstall brake line brackets and clips.
15. 15

    Final torque and wheel installation
    Tighten all upper strut mount-to-tower nuts to manufacturer specification (consult service manual). Double-check all fasteners are properly torqued. Install the wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts. Lower the vehicle to the ground and torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Reinstall any trim panels or covers removed from strut tower.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal
2. Start the vehicle and verify no warning lights remain illuminated on dashboard
3. Exit Service Mode if it was engaged
4. Test steering function at low speed in a safe area before normal driving
5. Repeat entire procedure for opposite side if replacing both strut bearings

Verification

• Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock while stationary; should move smoothly without binding, grinding, or clicking noises from strut bearing area
• Perform test drive at low speeds and verify normal steering response without unusual noises, vibration, or binding
• Verify no warning lights (ABS, stability control, etc.) are illuminated after test drive
• Check that all fasteners are tight and no components show signs of movement or looseness
• CRITICAL: Have vehicle professionally aligned as soon as possible. Driving with improper alignment can cause tire wear and handling issues
• Schedule follow-up inspection after 50-100 miles to recheck all fastener torque

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