This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the intermediate steering shaft on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500, connecting the steering column to the steering rack.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Intermediate steering shaft assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Upper steering shaft coupling bolt × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower steering shaft coupling bolt × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Center the steering wheel and verify it is in the straight-ahead position
4. Disconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 5 minutes
5. Install steering wheel holding device or tape steering wheel to prevent rotation
6. Raise front of vehicle and support securely on jack stands
7. Remove front skid plate or underbody panels for access to steering components

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the upper steering shaft connection
   Working from inside the cab, remove the lower steering column trim panels by releasing the retaining clips. Remove the knee bolster panel if necessary to access the upper intermediate shaft coupling at the base of the steering column.
2. 2

   Mark shaft alignment positions
   Using a paint marker or scribe, mark the alignment position of the upper intermediate shaft to the steering column shaft. Make matching marks on both the shaft and the coupling to ensure correct reassembly orientation. Also mark the lower shaft-to-rack connection position.
3. 3

   Disconnect upper steering shaft coupling
   Using an 18mm wrench, loosen and remove the pinch bolt securing the upper intermediate shaft to the steering column shaft. Spread the coupling slightly if needed and slide the intermediate shaft down off the column shaft splines. Do not force or pry excessively to avoid damaging the column.
4. 4

   Access lower steering shaft connection
   Working from underneath the vehicle, locate the lower intermediate shaft coupling where it connects to the steering rack input shaft. Clean any dirt or debris from the connection area to ensure proper visibility and access.
5. 5

   Disconnect electrical connectors if equipped
   If the intermediate shaft has an integrated angle sensor or any electrical connections, carefully disconnect the wiring harness connectors. Release any retaining clips securing wiring to the shaft.
6. 6

   Remove lower shaft coupling bolt
   Using an 18mm wrench or 15mm socket (depending on fastener type), remove the pinch bolt securing the lower intermediate shaft coupling to the steering rack input shaft. Note the bolt orientation for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove intermediate steering shaft
   Spread the lower coupling slightly and carefully slide the intermediate shaft off the rack input shaft. Maneuver the shaft assembly through the firewall opening and remove it from the vehicle. Inspect the rubber bellows at the firewall for damage and replace if torn or deteriorated.
8. 8

   Inspect steering rack input shaft
   Examine the steering rack input shaft splines for wear, damage, or corrosion. Clean the splines with a wire brush if necessary. Check that the steering rack is still centered and has not moved during shaft removal.
9. 9

   Install new intermediate steering shaft
   Position the new intermediate shaft and guide it through the firewall opening. Align the lower coupling with the steering rack input shaft, matching your alignment marks. Slide the lower coupling onto the rack shaft splines, ensuring full engagement.
10. 10

    Install lower coupling pinch bolt
    Install the new lower coupling pinch bolt through the coupling, ensuring the bolt passes through the shaft detent or flat. Tighten to manufacturer specification. Note: Torque specification not available in database; consult service manual or use OEM specification typically 30-35 ft-lbs for this application.
11. 11

    Connect upper steering shaft coupling
    Align the upper intermediate shaft coupling with the steering column shaft, matching your previously made alignment marks. Slide the coupling onto the column shaft splines until fully seated.
12. 12

    Install upper coupling pinch bolt
    Install the new upper coupling pinch bolt through the coupling, ensuring proper alignment with the shaft detent or flat. Tighten to manufacturer specification. Note: Torque specification not available in database; consult service manual or use OEM specification typically 25-30 ft-lbs for this application.
13. 13

    Reconnect electrical connections
    If equipped with a shaft angle sensor or other electrical connections, reconnect all wiring harness connectors. Secure any wiring clips to prevent interference with shaft rotation.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall lower steering column trim panels and knee bolster inside the cab
2. Reinstall front skid plate or underbody panels removed for access
3. Remove steering wheel holding device or tape
4. Lower vehicle from jack stands and remove wheel chocks
5. Reconnect the 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no warning lights related to steering or stability control systems are illuminated
• Turn the steering wheel lock-to-lock slowly while stationary and verify smooth operation with no binding or unusual noises
• Verify the steering wheel is centered when front wheels are pointing straight ahead
• Perform a test drive at low speed in a safe area, checking for proper steering response and no vibration or noise
• Verify electric power steering assistance is functioning normally
• Check for any clicking, popping, or binding sensations through the steering wheel during turns
• If steering wheel is off-center, a wheel alignment or steering angle sensor calibration may be required

More procedures for this vehicle