This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the tail light assembly on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500 commercial delivery van, including disconnection of electrical connectors and mounting fasteners.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Tail light assembly (left or right as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Tail light mounting grommets × 3 — Use OEM specification
• Electrical connector sealing boot (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Power off the vehicle completely using the center screen or key fob
2. Open the rear cargo doors to access the interior tail light mounting area
3. If working on driver side, ensure adequate clearance by moving any cargo or shelving
4. Apply masking tape around the tail light perimeter on exterior to protect paint during removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Access interior trim panel
   From inside the cargo area, locate the interior trim panel directly behind the tail light assembly. Use trim removal tools to carefully pry out the panel clips starting from the bottom edge and working upward. Remove the trim panel to expose the tail light mounting area and electrical connections.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the main tail light electrical connector behind the assembly. Press the locking tab while pulling the connector straight back to disconnect. If the connector is difficult to access, use an electrical connector release tool. Inspect the connector and sealing boot for damage or moisture intrusion.
3. 3

   Remove interior mounting nuts
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the three mounting nuts securing the tail light assembly from the interior side. These nuts are typically arranged in a triangular pattern. Keep nuts in a safe location for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Release exterior retaining clips
   From the exterior of the vehicle, gently pull the tail light assembly outward from the rear panel. The assembly is secured by alignment pins and may require slight rocking motion to release from the body panel grommets. Apply even pressure to avoid breaking mounting tabs.
5. 5

   Remove tail light assembly
   Once all fasteners and clips are released, carefully withdraw the tail light assembly from the vehicle body. Guide the mounting pins through the body panel holes while supporting the assembly weight. Place the removed assembly on a padded surface with lens facing up to prevent scratches.
6. 6

   Inspect mounting area
   Check the body panel mounting holes for damage, corrosion, or debris. Inspect the rubber grommets in each mounting hole for wear or deterioration. Replace any damaged grommets before installing the new assembly. Clean the mounting surface with a microfiber cloth to ensure proper sealing.
7. 7

   Prepare new tail light assembly
   Remove the new tail light assembly from packaging and inspect for shipping damage. Verify that all mounting pins are intact and properly seated in the assembly housing. If the new assembly includes pre-installed grommets, ensure they are properly positioned on the mounting studs.
8. 8

   Install new tail light assembly
   From the exterior, align the mounting pins with the body panel holes. Insert the assembly at a slight angle, then press firmly and evenly until the mounting pins protrude through to the interior and the assembly seats flush against the body panel. Ensure even gap spacing around the entire perimeter.
9. 9

   Secure mounting nuts
   From the interior, thread the three 10mm mounting nuts onto the protruding studs by hand first. Once all nuts are started, tighten them in a star pattern to ensure even pressure distribution. Tighten firmly but do not over-torque as this may crack the tail light housing.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align the electrical connector with the tail light assembly socket, ensuring proper orientation of the keying features. Push the connector in firmly until you hear and feel a distinct click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify secure attachment.
11. 11

    Reinstall interior trim panel
    Position the interior trim panel back into place, aligning all mounting clips with their corresponding holes. Starting at the top, press firmly on each clip location until you hear each clip snap into place. Verify the panel is seated flush with no gaps.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all mounting nuts are tightened evenly and the tail light assembly sits flush with the body panel
2. Verify electrical connector is fully seated with locking tab engaged
3. Remove masking tape from exterior paint surface
4. Check that interior trim panel is securely fastened with all clips engaged

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and test all tail light functions: running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and reverse lights
• Activate hazard lights and verify both sides illuminate synchronously
• Inspect the exterior for proper fitment, even gaps, and flush alignment with surrounding body panels
• Check for any warning messages on the instrument cluster related to exterior lighting
• Verify no moisture or condensation is visible inside the new tail light lens
• Perform a visual inspection from 20 feet behind the vehicle to confirm proper light output and alignment

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