This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the audio amplifier in a 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Audio amplifier assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim clips (assorted) × 1 — Replacement for damaged clips

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. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery located in front passenger side compartment
4. Wait minimum 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
5. Document all audio settings and presets if possible before beginning work
6. Ensure cargo area is empty and clean to provide adequate working space

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver side rear cargo panel
   Using the trim clip removal tool, carefully pry out the plastic clips securing the lower driver side cargo panel. Start at the bottom rear corner and work forward. There are typically 8-10 clips along the panel edge. Remove the panel and set aside, keeping track of all clips for reinstallation.
2. 2

   Access amplifier mounting area
   Behind the cargo panel, locate the amplifier assembly mounted to the vehicle body structure. It will be a rectangular metal housing approximately 10x8 inches with multiple wire harness connections. Note the orientation and routing of all cables before disconnection.
3. 3

   Disconnect amplifier electrical connectors
   Identify the main power connector (larger gray connector) and speaker output connectors (smaller black connectors). Press the locking tabs on each connector and carefully pull straight back to disconnect. There are typically 4-6 connectors total. Do not pull on wires - only pull on connector bodies.
   ⚠Note connector positions and take photos before disconnection - incorrect reconnection can damage speakers or amplifier
4. 4

   Disconnect fiber optic data link
   Locate the MOST or fiber optic connector (typically orange/red connector). Depress the release mechanism and gently pull to disconnect. Protect the fiber optic ends from dust and contamination by covering with clean tape or caps if available.
   ⚠Do not bend fiber optic cable sharply or allow connectors to become dirty - this will cause communication errors
5. 5

   Remove amplifier ground connection
   Using the 10mm socket, remove the ground wire bolt connecting the amplifier chassis to vehicle ground. This is typically located on the lower mounting bracket. Keep the bolt and ground wire hardware together.
6. 6

   Remove amplifier mounting fasteners
   Using the T25 Torx driver, remove the four mounting bolts securing the amplifier to the body mounting bracket. Support the amplifier weight while removing the final bolts to prevent it from falling.
7. 7

   Remove amplifier from vehicle
   Carefully maneuver the amplifier assembly out from behind the cargo area structure. Route through any wire harness guides or brackets carefully to avoid damaging remaining vehicle wiring. Inspect the mounting location for any debris or moisture.
8. 8

   Prepare new amplifier for installation
   Remove the new amplifier from packaging and verify part number matches original unit. Transfer any mounting brackets or hardware from old amplifier to new unit if not pre-installed. Inspect all connector pins on new amplifier for damage or contamination.
9. 9

   Install new amplifier
   Position the new amplifier into the mounting location, routing through wire guides carefully. Align mounting holes with body bracket. Install the four T25 mounting bolts and tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even seating against mounting surface.
10. 10

    Connect ground wire
    Attach the ground wire to the amplifier grounding point using the 10mm bolt. Ensure contact surfaces are clean and free of paint or corrosion. Tighten securely but do not overtighten as this may strip threads in aluminum amplifier housing.
11. 11

    Reconnect fiber optic data link
    Clean fiber optic connector ends with appropriate cleaner if available, or ensure they are dust-free. Align and insert the fiber optic connector until it clicks into place. Verify locking mechanism is fully engaged.
12. 12

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to the amplifier in their original positions, referring to photos taken during disassembly. Ensure each connector clicks fully into place and locking tabs engage properly. Verify no pins are bent or misaligned before pushing connectors together.
13. 13

    Verify wire routing
    Check that all wire harnesses are properly routed through guides and secured with original clips. Ensure no wires are pinched, stretched, or positioned where they could contact sharp edges or moving parts. Confirm adequate clearance for cargo panel reinstallation.
14. 14

    Reinstall cargo panel
    Position the cargo panel back into place, aligning mounting points. Press firmly to seat all trim clips. Start at one end and work across to ensure even installation. Replace any damaged clips with new ones. Verify panel is flush and secure along all edges.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
2. Verify ground connection is tight and making good contact
3. Confirm no tools or parts are left in cargo area behind panels
4. Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify infotainment system powers up without error messages
• Check for amplifier fault codes using vehicle diagnostics if available
• Test all speakers by adjusting fade and balance settings to confirm proper output from all channels
• Verify audio quality at various volume levels - no distortion, clicking, or cutting out
• Test AM/FM radio, streaming audio, and any other audio sources to confirm full functionality
• Ensure cargo panel is secure and does not rattle during test drive
• Confirm no warning lights related to audio system are illuminated on instrument cluster

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