This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the AC receiver/drier on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500, including refrigerant recovery, component replacement, and system recharge.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC receiver/drier assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• AC line O-rings × 4 — Use OEM specification
• PAG oil for EV AC systems × 1 — Use OEM specification
• R-1234yf refrigerant × 1 — As needed for system capacity

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Ensure vehicle has been off for at least 30 minutes to allow HV system to cool
3. Access the 12V battery disconnect switch located in the rear cargo area and disconnect
4. Place HV service disconnect plug in your possession following Rivian service procedures
5. Document AC system performance and note any existing issues in service records
6. Connect R-1234yf recovery machine and verify proper operation
7. Locate receiver/drier assembly in front compartment near driver side frame rail

Procedure

1. 1

   Recover refrigerant from AC system
   Connect the R-1234yf recovery machine to both high and low side service ports. Follow machine instructions to completely recover all refrigerant from the system. Record the amount of refrigerant recovered and oil removed. The system should reach atmospheric pressure when recovery is complete. Allow system to stabilize for 5 minutes and verify pressure does not rise, indicating complete recovery.
2. 2

   Remove front underbody panel
   Remove the front underbody access panel to gain access to the AC receiver/drier location. Remove all Torx fasteners securing the panel and carefully lower it away from the vehicle. Some fasteners may be captive - do not force removal. Store panel and fasteners in a clean area.
3. 3

   Access receiver/drier mounting location
   Locate the receiver/drier mounted on a bracket near the driver side frame rail between the front motor and condenser. The unit will have two AC lines connected (inlet from condenser and outlet to evaporator) and may have an integrated pressure sensor. Note the routing of all lines and electrical connections for proper reassembly.
4. 4

   Disconnect receiver/drier electrical connection
   If equipped with an integrated pressure sensor, carefully disconnect the electrical connector by pressing the locking tab and pulling straight out. Secure the connector away from the work area to prevent damage. Inspect connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
5. 5

   Disconnect inlet AC line
   Using the appropriate line disconnect tool, disconnect the inlet AC line from the top of the receiver/drier. This is the line coming from the condenser. Be prepared for residual refrigerant oil to drain. Immediately cap both the open line and receiver/drier port with clean plastic plugs to prevent moisture and contamination entry. Inspect the O-ring in the disconnected fitting and discard.
6. 6

   Disconnect outlet AC line
   Using the appropriate line disconnect tool, disconnect the outlet AC line from the bottom of the receiver/drier. This line runs to the evaporator. Immediately cap both the open line and receiver/drier port with clean plastic plugs. Inspect the O-ring in the disconnected fitting and discard. Note the amount and condition of oil that drains from the connections.
7. 7

   Remove receiver/drier mounting hardware
   Remove the mounting bracket bolts or clamps securing the receiver/drier to its mounting location. The unit is typically held by a U-bolt style clamp or bracket assembly. Support the receiver/drier while removing the final fastener to prevent it from falling.
8. 8

   Remove old receiver/drier
   Carefully remove the old receiver/drier assembly from its mounting location. Tilt the unit to drain any remaining oil into a graduated container and record the amount. This will help determine how much fresh oil to add to the new unit. Inspect the drained oil for contamination, metal particles, or discoloration which may indicate system issues.
9. 9

   Prepare new receiver/drier
   Remove the new receiver/drier from its sealed packaging immediately before installation. Check that all ports have shipping caps installed. Add the appropriate amount of fresh PAG oil compatible with R-1234yf to the new receiver/drier through one of the ports. The amount should equal what was drained from the old unit, typically 1-2 ounces. Install new lubricated O-rings on both ports of the new receiver/drier.
10. 10

    Install new receiver/drier
    Position the new receiver/drier in the mounting bracket ensuring proper orientation with inlet at top and outlet at bottom. The pressure sensor port, if equipped, should face the appropriate direction for connector access. Secure the mounting hardware finger-tight initially to allow for line alignment.
11. 11

    Connect AC lines to new receiver/drier
    Remove caps from the receiver/drier ports and AC lines immediately before connection. Install new lubricated O-rings on each AC line fitting. Connect the inlet line from the condenser to the top port and outlet line to the bottom port. Push each connection fully until you hear or feel the locking mechanism engage. Verify connections are secure by attempting to pull lines away from the receiver/drier.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connection and finalize mounting
    If equipped with a pressure sensor, reconnect the electrical connector ensuring it locks securely. Tighten all receiver/drier mounting hardware to secure the unit firmly in position. Verify all AC lines have adequate clearance from moving parts, heat sources, and sharp edges. Adjust mounting if necessary before fully tightening.
13. 13

    Evacuate AC system
    Connect the vacuum pump to the AC service ports. Evacuate the system to a minimum of 500 microns. Once target vacuum is reached, isolate the pump and monitor for 30 minutes. Vacuum level should hold steady indicating no leaks. If vacuum rises above 1000 microns, there is a leak that must be located and repaired before proceeding.
14. 14

    Recharge AC system
    Using the R-1234yf recharge machine, add refrigerant to system specification per the underhood label (typically 1.8-2.2 lbs for Rivian EDV 500). Charge through both high and low side ports according to machine instructions. Do not overcharge the system. Record the exact amount of refrigerant and oil added in service documentation.
15. 15

    Leak test and verify operation
    With the system charged, use a refrigerant leak detector to check all connections at the new receiver/drier and surrounding components. Reconnect 12V battery and HV service disconnect. Start the vehicle and turn AC system to maximum cooling. Allow system to run for 10 minutes and verify proper cooling, consistent pressures, and no unusual noises. Recheck all connections for leaks with engine running and AC on.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall front underbody panel with all fasteners properly torqued
2. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly routed
3. Ensure no tools or parts were left in the work area
4. Clear any diagnostic trouble codes related to AC system service mode

Verification

• Verify AC system provides cold air at vent temperature of 38-42°F at maximum cooling
• Check that AC compressor cycles normally without unusual noise or vibration
• Confirm no refrigerant leaks detected at receiver/drier connections or surrounding components
• Verify AC system high and low side pressures are within specification (typically 200-250 PSI high side, 28-35 PSI low side at 75°F ambient)
• Confirm pressure sensor, if equipped, is providing accurate readings to vehicle system
• Test AC performance through multiple drive cycles to ensure continued proper operation
• Document all refrigerant and oil quantities added in service records for future reference

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