electrical
Airbag Module/Computer
for 2025 Rivian EDV 500 Dual Motor AWD (EDV) · AWD
Difficulty
Advanced
Time
2.0 h
Tools
8
Steps
12
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the airbag control module (ACM) on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500, including proper disarming of the supplemental restraint system and post-installation calibration.
Warnings
⚠️SAFETY-CRITICAL SYSTEM: Improper airbag module installation can result in airbag system failure, unintended deployment, or death in a collision. If you are not experienced with supplemental restraint systems, seek professional service.
⚠️The high-voltage battery system must be properly isolated before working near the airbag module. Failure to follow HV safety procedures can result in electrocution or severe burns.
⚠️Wait a minimum of 3 minutes after disconnecting the 12V battery before touching any airbag system components to allow capacitor discharge.
⚠The airbag module is sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). Always use an anti-static wrist strap connected to vehicle ground when handling the module.
⚠The replacement airbag module must be configured and calibrated using Rivian diagnostic software. The vehicle is NOT safe to drive until calibration is complete and all diagnostic trouble codes are cleared.
ℹ️Document all diagnostic trouble codes before beginning work. Take photos of all connector orientations and harness routing.
Tools required
OBD-II scan tool with Rivian software capabilityEssential
Socket set (metric)Essential
Torx bit set (T20, T25, T30)Essential
Panel removal tool set
Digital multimeterEssential
Insulated gloves (class 00 minimum)Essential
Cable ties
Anti-static wrist strapEssential
Parts
- Airbag control module (ACM) × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Module mounting bracket (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level ground and ensure transmission is in Park
- Turn off all vehicle systems and remove key fob from vehicle interior (place at least 30 feet away)
- Verify high-voltage system is in service mode following Rivian service procedures
- Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and secure away from battery post
- Wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
- Put on anti-static wrist strap and connect to vehicle chassis ground point
- Use scan tool to document all existing fault codes in airbag system
- Take photographs of center console area and visible harness routing for reference
Procedure
- 1Access center console areaRemove the center console lower trim panel by releasing the clips at the rear edge and sliding rearward. Remove the front cupholders by lifting straight up. Remove the console side panels using a panel tool to release the retaining clips. The airbag module is located beneath the center console near the transmission tunnel.
- 2Disconnect airbag harness connectorsLocate the airbag control module beneath the console. Identify all harness connectors (typically 2-3 large multi-pin connectors). Carefully release each connector locking tab by pressing the release mechanism while gently pulling the connector straight off. Note the yellow color coding on SRS connectors. Do not pull on wires. Label each connector position with tape if needed.⚠Never pull on wires when disconnecting connectors. Always pull on the connector body itself to avoid damaging terminals.
- 3Remove module mounting hardwareLocate the mounting bolts securing the airbag module to the bracket (typically 3-4 Torx bolts). Remove all mounting bolts and carefully lift the module away from the mounting surface. Support the module weight to prevent it from falling or being suspended by harness connectors.
- 4Inspect mounting bracket and connectorsExamine the mounting bracket for cracks, deformation, or damage. Inspect all connector pins in both the vehicle harness and on the removed module for corrosion, bending, or damage. Check harness for chafing, cuts, or signs of water intrusion. Replace bracket if any damage is found.
- 5Prepare new airbag moduleRemove the new airbag module from its protective packaging. Keep the module in its anti-static bag until ready to install. Verify the part number matches the original module or Rivian service documentation. Inspect new module connectors for proper pin alignment and no shipping damage.
- 6Install new airbag modulePosition the new module in the mounting bracket, ensuring proper orientation (connectors should face toward vehicle harnesses). Install mounting bolts hand-tight first to verify alignment, then tighten in a cross pattern. Since no torque specification is provided in the database, tighten securely but do not over-torque the mounting hardware.
- 7Connect harness connectorsConnect each harness connector to the corresponding port on the new module. Match connector positions to your reference photos. Push each connector firmly until you hear and feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
- 8Reconnect 12V batteryReconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. Ensure the connection is clean and tight. Do not attempt to start the vehicle or energize systems yet.
- 9Configure and calibrate moduleConnect the Rivian-compatible scan tool to the OBD-II port. Access the airbag system module and perform the configuration/initialization procedure as specified by Rivian service software. This typically includes VIN registration, sensor calibration, and system parameter programming. Follow all on-screen prompts exactly.⚠️Module calibration is MANDATORY. The airbag system will not function properly without proper configuration and may fail in a collision or deploy unexpectedly.
- 10Clear diagnostic codes and verify systemUse the scan tool to clear all airbag system diagnostic trouble codes. Cycle the ignition off, wait 10 seconds, then turn ignition to ON position (do not start vehicle). Observe the airbag warning light on the instrument cluster - it should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds then turn off. Use scan tool to verify no active or pending codes remain.
- 11Perform system self-testUsing the scan tool, initiate a complete airbag system self-test. Verify all airbag sensors, seat belt pretensioners, and deployment circuits pass testing. Address any failures before proceeding. Document all test results.
- 12Reinstall console componentsReinstall center console panels, side trim, and cupholders in reverse order of removal. Ensure all clips engage properly and panels fit flush. Verify no harnesses are pinched or routed incorrectly. Check that all interior trim is secure.
Reassembly
- Verify all console trim pieces are properly secured with no gaps or loose clips
- Ensure no tools or parts were left in the console area
- Remove anti-static wrist strap
- Return high-voltage system to normal operating mode per Rivian procedures
Verification
- Turn ignition to ON position and verify airbag warning light illuminates briefly then extinguishes (approximately 6 seconds)
- Use scan tool to confirm zero active or pending diagnostic trouble codes in airbag system
- Verify all airbag system components show as present and communicating in scan tool data
- Perform a test drive in a safe area and verify no warning lights illuminate
- Re-scan system after test drive to confirm no new codes have set
- Document completion with scan tool report showing successful calibration and no faults