hvac
Climate Control Module
for 2025 Rivian EDV 500 Dual Motor AWD (EDV) · AWD
Difficulty
Advanced
Time
4.0 h
Tools
9
Steps
14
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the climate control module on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van, located behind the dashboard center stack.
Warnings
⚠️This vehicle contains high voltage systems up to 400V DC. Ensure 12V battery is disconnected and high voltage system is properly shut down before beginning work.
⚠️Wait at least 5 minutes after disconnecting 12V battery for capacitors to discharge before touching any electrical components.
⚠The climate control module contains calibration data specific to your vehicle. Document all connector positions and wiring routing before removal.
⚠Dashboard panels and trim pieces are easily damaged. Use proper trim removal tools and apply gentle, even pressure.
ℹ️This procedure requires reprogramming or configuration transfer to the new module using Rivian diagnostic software.
Tools required
Torx driver set (T15, T20, T25, T30)Essential
Trim panel removal tool setEssential
Socket set (metric 8mm-13mm)Essential
Ratchet with extensionsEssential
Insulated gloves rated for EV workEssential
Multimeter
Panel puller hooks
Magnetic parts tray
Compressed air or vacuum
Parts
- Climate control module × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Dash panel retaining clips × 10 — Use OEM specification
- Climate control module connector seals × 2 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Ensure vehicle is fully powered down and key fob is at least 20 feet away from vehicle
- Open the hood and locate the 12V battery in the front compartment
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery and isolate the cable
- Wait minimum 5 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
- Photograph or document all connector orientations for reference during reassembly
- Set cabin temperature controls to off position before beginning work
- Ensure workspace has adequate lighting for dashboard interior work
Procedure
- 1Remove lower dashboard trim panelUsing trim panel removal tools, carefully release the lower dashboard trim panel below the center stack. Start at the bottom edge and work upward, releasing 8-10 retaining clips. Pull panel forward gently once all clips are released and set aside in a protected area.
- 2Remove center console lower sectionLocate and remove four T25 Torx screws securing the lower center console section. Two screws are located in the front cup holder area and two in the rear storage compartment. Carefully pull the lower console section forward to disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports or charging pads, then remove the section completely.
- 3Disconnect climate control electrical connectorsIdentify the climate control module wiring harnesses behind the center stack. Locate the three main connectors: primary HVAC control (gray 24-pin), blower motor control (black 12-pin), and sensor input connector (blue 16-pin). Press the locking tabs and carefully disconnect each connector. Note the exact routing and orientation of each connector.
- 4Remove center air vent assemblyUse trim removal tools to carefully pry out the center air vent assembly from the dashboard. Release the four retaining clips (two top, two bottom). Once clips are released, pull the vent assembly forward approximately 2 inches and disconnect the damper actuator connector on the back of the assembly. Remove the vent assembly completely.
- 5Access climate control module mounting bracketsWith the vent assembly removed, you now have visual access to the climate control module. The module is mounted to a steel bracket behind the center stack. Use a flashlight to identify the four T30 Torx mounting bolts, two on each side of the module housing.
- 6Disconnect refrigerant sensor connectorLocate the refrigerant temperature/pressure sensor connector on the right side of the climate control module. This is a small yellow 4-pin connector with a sliding lock. Slide the lock tab toward the connector body and carefully pull the connector straight back to disconnect.
- 7Remove climate control module mounting boltsUsing a T30 Torx driver with an extension, remove the four mounting bolts securing the climate control module to the bracket. The bolts are approximately 25mm long. Support the module with one hand while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling. Place bolts in magnetic tray for safekeeping.
- 8Extract climate control moduleCarefully pull the climate control module forward and downward out of the dashboard cavity. The module is approximately 8 inches wide and 6 inches tall. Maneuver it carefully to avoid damaging surrounding components. Watch for any additional wiring or vacuum lines that may still be attached.
- 9Inspect mounting location and prepare new moduleClean the mounting bracket area with compressed air or vacuum to remove dust and debris. Inspect all connector pins in the vehicle harness for damage, corrosion, or bent pins. Unpack the new climate control module and inspect for shipping damage. Verify part number matches the original module.
- 10Install new climate control moduleCarefully position the new climate control module into the dashboard cavity, aligning it with the mounting bracket holes. Ensure no wiring is pinched behind the module. Start all four T30 Torx mounting bolts by hand first, then tighten in a cross pattern to secure the module evenly to the bracket. Snug bolts firmly but do not overtighten into the aluminum mounting tabs.
- 11Reconnect all electrical connectorsReconnect all electrical connectors in reverse order of removal: refrigerant sensor connector (yellow 4-pin), primary HVAC control (gray 24-pin), blower motor control (black 12-pin), and sensor input connector (blue 16-pin). Ensure each connector clicks firmly into place and locking tabs engage properly. Verify connector seals are properly seated.
- 12Reinstall center air vent assemblyReconnect the damper actuator connector to the back of the air vent assembly. Carefully align the vent assembly with the dashboard opening and push firmly until all four retaining clips engage with audible clicks. Test the fit by gently pulling on the vent assembly to confirm secure mounting.
- 13Reinstall center console and trim panelsReconnect any USB port or charging pad connectors to the lower center console section. Position the console section and secure with the four T25 Torx screws (two front in cup holder area, two rear in storage compartment). Align the lower dashboard trim panel and press firmly around all edges to engage all retaining clips. Replace any damaged clips as needed.
- 14Reconnect 12V battery and initialize systemReconnect the negative terminal to the 12V battery and tighten securely. Enter the vehicle and power on the infotainment system. The climate control system will perform a self-calibration routine that takes approximately 60-90 seconds. You will hear actuator motors cycling through their full range.
Reassembly
- Ensure all dashboard trim panels are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
- Verify all electrical connectors are fully engaged with locking tabs secured
- Confirm no tools or fasteners were left in the dashboard cavity
- Check that all air vents operate smoothly and dampers move freely
- Inspect for any rattles or loose components before final testing
Verification
- Power on the vehicle and access the climate control interface on the center display
- Test all climate control functions: heating, cooling, fan speed adjustments, and mode selections (defrost, floor, vent, etc.)
- Verify airflow from all vents (driver, passenger, rear, and defrost) operates correctly
- Confirm temperature control responds properly with both driver and passenger zone controls functioning independently
- Check for any diagnostic trouble codes using the vehicle system menu or diagnostic software
- Listen for unusual noises from blend doors or actuators during operation
- Test auto climate mode to confirm sensors are reading correctly and system adjusts automatically
- Verify heated seat and heated steering wheel controls function properly if integrated with climate module
- Allow system to run for 10-15 minutes to confirm stable operation and proper temperature regulation
- If new module requires programming, connect Rivian diagnostic tool and transfer vehicle configuration or perform module programming per manufacturer procedure