Airbag - Passenger

This procedure removes and replaces the passenger side airbag module in a 2025 Rivian EDV 500, including proper SRS system disarming and reactivation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Passenger airbag module × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Airbag module mounting bolts (if reuse not permitted) × 4 — Use OEM specification
• SRS connector lock clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is OFF and key fob is at least 15 feet away from vehicle
3. Locate 12V battery in front storage compartment under hood
4. Disconnect 12V negative battery terminal and isolate cable end away from terminal
5. Wait minimum 5 minutes for SRS system capacitors to fully discharge
6. Put on insulated gloves before handling any SRS components
7. Review Rivian service documentation for any vehicle-specific updates to SRS procedures

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove upper glove box assembly
   Open glove box fully. Locate and press inward on both side stops to allow glove box to drop past normal range. Disconnect glove box damper if equipped. Remove Torx T20 screws securing glove box to instrument panel (typically 4-6 screws). Carefully lower glove box assembly and disconnect any electrical connectors for lighting. Remove glove box completely.
2. 2

   Access passenger airbag module
   With glove box removed, you now have access to the rear of the passenger dashboard area. Locate the passenger airbag module behind the dashboard trim. You should see the airbag connector and mounting hardware through the opening. Use a flashlight to inspect the mounting configuration.
3. 3

   Disconnect passenger airbag connector
   Locate the yellow SRS connector attached to the passenger airbag module. This connector has a secondary locking mechanism. First, slide or press the red/orange secondary lock tab to the unlocked position. Then press the primary connector lock tab and carefully pull connector straight away from airbag module. Mark connector orientation with tape if needed for reassembly. Secure disconnected connector away from work area.
4. 4

   Remove airbag module mounting fasteners
   Locate the airbag module mounting bolts accessible from behind the dashboard (typically 4 bolts, Torx T30). Note that some fasteners may be accessed from above through the defroster vent area. Remove all mounting bolts while supporting the airbag module from the front to prevent it from falling. Keep track of any brackets or washers.
5. 5

   Remove passenger airbag module
   From the passenger seating area, carefully push on the dashboard trim around the airbag door perimeter while a helper supports the module from behind. The airbag module should separate from the dashboard. Carefully guide the module out through the glove box opening, keeping the airbag deployment side facing AWAY from you. Place module face-UP on a clean surface at least 10 feet away from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting area
   Inspect the dashboard structure and all mounting points for cracks, damage, or deformation. Check that airbag deployment door in dashboard trim is intact and hinges are not damaged. If any structural damage is present, dashboard assembly may need replacement before installing new airbag.
7. 7

   Prepare new airbag module
   Remove new airbag module from packaging only when ready to install. Verify part number matches original and is correct for passenger side. Inspect new module for any shipping damage. Do NOT remove any protective covers from the deployment face. Keep module oriented with deployment face away from your body.
8. 8

   Install new airbag module
   Carefully guide new airbag module into position through glove box opening, aligning mounting holes with dashboard structure. Ensure airbag deployment door aligns properly with dashboard trim. Have helper support module from passenger compartment side while you work from behind.
9. 9

   Install mounting fasteners
   Install all airbag module mounting bolts and tighten in a cross-pattern sequence. Since no torque specifications are provided in database, follow Rivian OEM specifications exactly. Typically these are tightened to 80-100 inch-pounds, but verify with manufacturer documentation. Ensure module is firmly seated with no gaps.
10. 10

    Connect airbag electrical connector
    Route airbag connector to module and align pins carefully. Push connector firmly onto module until primary lock clicks into place. Engage secondary locking mechanism by sliding red/orange tab to locked position. Gently tug on connector to verify it is fully locked.
11. 11

    Reinstall glove box assembly
    Reconnect any electrical connectors for glove box lighting. Position glove box into dashboard opening and install all Torx T20 mounting screws in cross-pattern. Reconnect glove box damper if equipped. Test glove box operation ensuring it opens and closes smoothly with proper stop engagement.
12. 12

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Reconnect 12V negative battery terminal and tighten securely. Do not start vehicle yet. Ensure all tools and parts are clear of vehicle.
13. 13

    Clear SRS fault codes
    Connect OBD-II scan tool with SRS capability to vehicle diagnostic port. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start). Access SRS system and read all fault codes. Clear stored fault codes related to passenger airbag disconnection. Follow scan tool prompts to complete SRS system initialization.

Reassembly

1. Verify all dashboard trim panels are secure with no gaps or misalignment
2. Ensure glove box operates normally and does not interfere with airbag deployment zone
3. Verify no tools or parts were left in dashboard cavity
4. Test all affected electrical systems (glove box light, passenger airbag indicator)

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and observe instrument cluster SRS warning light
• SRS warning light should illuminate for approximately 6 seconds during self-test, then extinguish
• If SRS light remains illuminated, flashes, or does not illuminate at all, DO NOT DRIVE VEHICLE - diagnose fault codes immediately
• Use scan tool to verify no active SRS fault codes are present
• Verify passenger airbag status light (if equipped) shows correct ON/OFF status based on seat occupancy
• Perform gentle press test on dashboard airbag door area - should be firm with no movement or gaps
• Test drive vehicle and confirm SRS warning light remains OFF during normal operation
• Have passenger airbag system professionally inspected if any concerns remain about proper installation

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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