This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the 12-volt auxiliary battery in the 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• 12-volt auxiliary battery × 1 — Use Rivian OEM specification Group 48 AGM battery
• Battery terminal anti-corrosion washers × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Open front hood and locate 12-volt auxiliary battery compartment on driver side
4. If using a battery memory saver, connect it to the 12-volt outlet before disconnecting battery
5. Photograph battery terminal orientation and any wiring routing for reference during reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Access battery compartment
   Remove the plastic battery cover by releasing the clips on each side. Lift the cover straight up and set aside. Verify you are working on the 12-volt auxiliary battery, not high-voltage components marked with orange cables.
2. 2

   Disconnect negative terminal
   Using an 8mm socket, loosen the negative (black) terminal bolt. Remove the bolt completely and carefully lift the negative cable away from the battery post. Secure the cable away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.
   ⚠Always disconnect negative terminal first to prevent short circuits when removing positive terminal.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Disconnect positive terminal
   Using an 8mm socket, loosen the positive (red) terminal bolt. Remove the bolt completely and carefully lift the positive cable away from the battery post. Cover the positive terminal with a shop towel or insulating material to prevent accidental grounding.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove battery hold-down bracket
   Locate the battery hold-down bracket spanning across the top of the battery. Using a 10mm socket, remove the hold-down bolts securing the bracket. There are typically two bolts. Lift the bracket straight up and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Inspect battery tray
   With the old battery removed, inspect the battery tray for corrosion, debris, or damage. If corrosion is present, clean with a solution of baking soda and water, then dry thoroughly. Check that the tray mounting bolts are secure.
   Torque spec

   Battery Tray Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove old battery
   Carefully lift the battery straight up out of the tray. Batteries are heavy (approximately 40-50 lbs) - use proper lifting technique. Note the orientation of the positive and negative posts for correct installation of the new battery.
7. 7

   Install new battery
   Place the new battery into the tray, ensuring the positive and negative terminals are oriented correctly to match the cable positions. The battery should sit flush in the tray with no rocking or movement.
8. 8

   Reinstall hold-down bracket
   Position the battery hold-down bracket over the battery and align with mounting holes. Install hold-down bolts and torque to specification. The battery should be secure with no movement when pressed.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Clean and prepare terminals
   Clean both battery posts and cable terminals with a battery terminal cleaner or wire brush to ensure good electrical contact. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the battery posts to prevent corrosion.
10. 10

    Connect positive terminal
    Place the positive (red) cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Install the terminal bolt and torque to specification. Ensure the connection is tight but do not exceed torque specification as this can crack the terminal.
    ⚠Do not overtighten terminal bolts beyond 6.0 Nm. Overtightening will crack the battery terminal and require battery replacement.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect negative terminal
    Place the negative (black) cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and torque to specification. A small spark may occur when making final contact - this is normal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Reinstall battery cover
    Position the plastic battery cover over the battery compartment and press down firmly until all clips engage. Ensure the cover is fully seated and secure.

Reassembly

1. Always connect positive terminal before negative terminal during installation
2. Apply dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray to completed terminal connections
3. Ensure all battery compartment covers and shields are properly reinstalled
4. Remove battery memory saver if used

Verification

• Turn on vehicle and verify all electrical systems function properly including instrument cluster, infotainment, and lighting
• Check that no warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard related to electrical system faults
• Verify battery terminals are tight and show no signs of arcing or poor connection
• Test critical vehicle functions including power windows, door locks, and HVAC system
• If any systems require recalibration (such as windows or steering angle sensor), follow manufacturer procedures
• Reset clock and reprogram radio presets as needed

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