electrical
Dimmer Switch
for 2025 Rivian EDV 500 Dual Motor AWD (EDV) · AWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
2.0 h
Tools
8
Steps
12
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the dimmer switch assembly on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500. The dimmer switch controls headlight brightness and beam selection.
Warnings
⚠️Disconnect 12V battery and wait 10 minutes before beginning work to allow airbag system to fully discharge
⚠Do not rotate the steering wheel with the dimmer switch removed to avoid damaging the clockspring assembly
⚠Handle all trim panels carefully to avoid breaking mounting tabs
ℹ️The vehicle must remain in Park position throughout this procedure
Tools required
Trim removal tool setEssential
T20 Torx driverEssential
T25 Torx driverEssential
Small flat blade screwdriver
Socket set (8mm, 10mm)Essential
Multimeter
Panel clip removerEssential
Ratchet with extensionEssential
Parts
- Dimmer switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
- Steering column trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
Preparation
- Ensure vehicle is parked on level surface with parking brake applied
- Turn vehicle completely off and remove key fob from cabin
- Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery located under hood and wait minimum 10 minutes
- Set steering wheel to center position and lock in place
- Photograph or document existing wiring connections for reference during reassembly
Procedure
- 1Remove lower steering column coverLocate and remove the lower steering column trim cover. There are two T20 Torx screws on the underside of the cover near the instrument cluster. Remove these screws and gently pull the lower cover away from the column, starting from the bottom edge. Disconnect any electrical connectors if present for illumination.
- 2Remove upper steering column coverWith the lower cover removed, access the upper steering column cover. Remove the two T25 Torx screws located on the underside of the upper cover. Carefully separate the upper cover by releasing the clips along the sides. Lift the upper cover up and away from the steering column assembly.
- 3Access dimmer switch assemblyLocate the dimmer switch assembly on the left side of the steering column. The switch is part of the multifunction stalk assembly. Identify the electrical connector at the base of the switch assembly which connects to the vehicle wiring harness.
- 4Disconnect electrical connectorDepress the locking tab on the dimmer switch electrical connector. Carefully pull the connector straight away from the switch assembly. If connector is difficult to access, you may need to remove the driver's side knee bolster panel for additional clearance. Inspect connector pins for damage or corrosion.
- 5Remove switch mounting hardwareLocate the two T25 Torx screws securing the dimmer switch bracket to the steering column. Remove both screws completely and set aside. Note the position and orientation of any mounting brackets or spacers for proper reinstallation.
- 6Remove dimmer switch assemblyGently pull the dimmer switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a tab that slides into a groove on the column. Carefully work the switch assembly out of the mounting position, being careful not to damage the clockspring or other steering column components.
- 7Inspect mounting area and wiringWith the switch removed, inspect the mounting bracket area for any damage, wear, or debris. Check the wiring harness for any signs of chafing, damage, or contamination. Clean the mounting surface if necessary. Verify the clockspring is properly seated and undamaged.
- 8Install new dimmer switch assemblyPosition the new dimmer switch assembly into the steering column mounting bracket. Ensure any alignment tabs or grooves are properly engaged. Slide the switch fully into position until it seats against the column mounting surface.
- 9Install mounting hardwareInstall the two T25 Torx screws through the switch mounting bracket into the steering column. Tighten screws evenly in a cross pattern to ensure proper alignment. Do not overtighten as this may crack the plastic mounting bracket.
- 10Reconnect electrical connectorAlign the electrical connector with the dimmer switch terminal. Push the connector firmly onto the switch until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector body.
- 11Reinstall upper steering column coverPosition the upper steering column cover over the column assembly. Ensure all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Align the cover clips and press firmly until all clips engage. Install the two T25 Torx screws on the underside and tighten securely.
- 12Reinstall lower steering column coverPosition the lower steering column cover below the upper cover. Reconnect any illumination electrical connectors if present. Align the cover and press firmly to engage all clips. Install the two T20 Torx screws on the underside and tighten securely.
Reassembly
- Verify all steering column trim panels are properly seated with no gaps
- Check that all electrical connectors are fully engaged with locking tabs secured
- Ensure no wiring is pinched between trim panels or steering column components
- Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery and ensure positive terminal is secure
Verification
- Turn vehicle to accessory mode and test dimmer switch operation through all positions
- Verify headlight low beam and high beam switching functions correctly
- Test flash-to-pass function by pulling dimmer stalk toward driver
- Check that instrument cluster displays proper high beam indicator when activated
- Verify no warning lights or error messages appear on instrument cluster
- Test dimmer function while vehicle is in Drive mode to ensure full operational capability
- Confirm steering column trim has no rattles or loose components