Replace the clock spring assembly in the steering column to restore functionality to the airbag, horn, and steering wheel controls on the 2025 Rivian EDV 500.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Clock spring assembly × 1 — Use OEM Rivian specification
• Steering wheel bolt (if single-use) × 1 — Verify reusability with OEM

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn steering wheel to center position with wheels pointing straight ahead
3. Turn vehicle off and remove key/disable start function
4. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal
5. Wait minimum 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to fully discharge
6. Place tape on steering wheel and column to mark alignment position
7. Verify steering column lock is engaged or secure column to prevent rotation

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove driver airbag module
   Locate and remove the Torx screws (typically T30) on both sides of the steering wheel behind the spokes. Carefully pull the airbag module straight back from the steering wheel. Disconnect the airbag electrical connector by pressing the release tab. Disconnect the horn connector if separate. Set airbag module face-up in a safe location away from the work area.
   ⚠️Always place airbag module face-up on a clean, flat surface. Never place face-down as deployment could cause serious injury.
2. 2

   Remove steering wheel retaining bolt
   Using a socket wrench, remove the central steering wheel retaining bolt. Do NOT remove the steering wheel yet. Loosen the bolt but keep it threaded a few turns to prevent the wheel from releasing suddenly.
3. 3

   Remove steering wheel
   With the bolt loosened, use a steering wheel puller if needed or firmly pull the steering wheel toward you while wiggling side to side. Once free, remove the retaining bolt completely. Disconnect any remaining electrical connectors for controls, capacitive sensors, or heating elements. Mark connector positions if different lengths. Remove steering wheel and set aside.
4. 4

   Remove upper and lower steering column covers
   Remove the Torx or Phillips screws securing the upper and lower steering column shrouds (typically 3-5 screws). Separate the upper cover first, then remove the lower cover. Disconnect any electrical connectors for column-mounted switches if they interfere with cover removal. Set covers aside in order for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Disconnect clock spring electrical connectors
   Locate the clock spring connector(s) at the base of the assembly. The Rivian EDV typically has two connectors: one for the airbag circuit (yellow) and one for steering wheel controls. Press the connector locking tabs and carefully disconnect both connectors. Note their positions and orientations.
6. 6

   Remove clock spring retaining fasteners
   Locate the clock spring retaining screws or clips (typically 3-4 Torx screws around the perimeter). Remove all fasteners securing the clock spring to the steering column. Note any washers or spacers and their positions.
7. 7

   Remove failed clock spring
   Carefully slide the clock spring assembly off the steering column shaft. Do not rotate the steering shaft during this process. Inspect the old clock spring for visible damage such as broken ribbon cables or wear patterns. Set the old unit aside.
8. 8

   Prepare new clock spring
   Verify the new clock spring is in the centered position (it should have a locking pin or tape holding it centered from the factory). Do NOT remove the centering lock until after installation. Confirm the new clock spring matches the old unit in connector types and mounting points.
   ⚠️Never rotate a clock spring that is not installed. Installing an off-center clock spring will cause immediate failure and possible airbag malfunction.
9. 9

   Install new clock spring
   With the steering column still centered and locked, slide the new clock spring onto the steering column shaft, aligning the mounting holes. Ensure the flat or keyed section of the shaft aligns properly with the clock spring center hub. Install all retaining screws and tighten evenly in a cross pattern to secure the assembly.
10. 10

    Connect clock spring electrical connectors
    Reconnect both electrical connectors to the clock spring, ensuring they click fully into place. Verify the airbag connector (yellow) is properly seated. Gently tug on connectors to confirm they are locked. Now remove the centering pin or locking tape from the clock spring.
11. 11

    Reinstall steering column covers
    Position the lower steering column cover first, reconnecting any switch connectors if previously disconnected. Install the upper cover and secure both covers with their retaining screws. Ensure no wires are pinched between cover halves.
12. 12

    Reinstall steering wheel
    Route the steering wheel electrical connectors through the wheel center. Align the steering wheel with the marked position on the column shaft and the alignment marks made during disassembly. Push the wheel onto the shaft, ensuring the splines engage fully. Thread the retaining bolt by hand, then torque to specification per Rivian service manual (typically 35-45 ft-lbs, but verify with OEM documentation).
13. 13

    Reinstall driver airbag module
    Reconnect the airbag connector and horn connector to the steering wheel. Ensure connectors are fully seated and locked. Position the airbag module into the steering wheel, aligning the mounting holes. Install the Torx retaining screws on both sides and tighten securely.
14. 14

    Reconnect battery and clear codes
    Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal. Turn the vehicle to accessory or ready mode. Use a scan tool to clear any stored airbag system fault codes. Verify no new codes are present after clearing.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked before powering the system
2. Ensure steering wheel alignment marks match to maintain proper vehicle tracking
3. Confirm steering column covers are secure with no gaps or loose panels
4. Double-check that no wires are pinched or stressed in their routing

Verification

• Turn vehicle to ready mode and verify the airbag warning light performs its normal self-check (illuminates briefly then extinguishes)
• Test horn operation by pressing the horn pad
• Test all steering wheel controls including cruise control, audio, and phone buttons
• Cycle steering wheel lock-to-lock slowly to verify smooth operation with no binding or clicking from the clock spring
• Use scan tool to verify no active or pending airbag system fault codes
• Test drive vehicle and confirm all steering wheel functions operate correctly through steering inputs

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