This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the rear trailing arm on a 2025 Rivian EDV 500, including suspension disconnection and alignment considerations.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Trailing arm × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trailing arm mounting bolts × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trailing arm bushing hardware kit × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lock nuts (if applicable) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
3. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Disconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for system discharge
5. Raise rear of vehicle using manufacturer-approved lift points and support with jack stands rated for EV weight
6. Remove rear wheel on side being serviced
7. Spray all trailing arm fasteners with penetrating lubricant and allow to soak

Procedure

1. 1

   Mark alignment references
   Before disassembly, use a paint pen or marking tool to mark the position of all adjustable components including camber and toe adjustment positions. Take photos of the current suspension geometry for reference during reinstallation.
2. 2

   Support rear suspension assembly
   Position a transmission jack or suspension load leveler under the rear suspension knuckle assembly. Raise slightly to take load off the trailing arm and support the suspension weight. This prevents the suspension from dropping when fasteners are removed.
3. 3

   Disconnect brake components if necessary
   If the brake line or ABS sensor wire is routed through or attached to the trailing arm, carefully disconnect or unclip these components. For brake lines, secure them out of the way without kinking. Do not open brake hydraulic connections unless absolutely necessary.
4. 4

   Remove shock absorber lower mounting bolt
   Locate the lower shock absorber mounting bolt where it connects to the trailing arm or suspension assembly. Use a socket and breaker bar to remove this bolt. Support the shock to prevent it from dropping once disconnected. Note the orientation and any spacers or washers present.
5. 5

   Disconnect sway bar end link
   If equipped with a rear sway bar, locate the end link connection point on the trailing arm. Use a wrench to hold the end link stud while removing the retaining nut with a socket. Disconnect the sway bar end link from the trailing arm and swing it clear of the work area.
6. 6

   Remove trailing arm front mounting bolt
   Locate the forward mounting point where the trailing arm attaches to the chassis or subframe. This is typically the larger bushing mount. Use a socket and breaker bar to remove the through-bolt. You may need to support the trailing arm with the jack while removing this bolt. Note the position of any alignment shims or washers.
7. 7

   Remove trailing arm rear mounting bolt
   Locate the rear mounting point where the trailing arm attaches to the knuckle or rear suspension hub assembly. Remove the mounting bolt using appropriate sockets. Be prepared for the trailing arm to shift once this bolt is removed.
8. 8

   Remove trailing arm from vehicle
   With all mounting points disconnected, carefully lower the suspension jack and maneuver the trailing arm out of the vehicle. You may need to pivot or angle the arm to clear surrounding components. Inspect the removed arm for damage, worn bushings, or signs of impact.
9. 9

   Inspect mounting points and clean surfaces
   Thoroughly inspect all mounting points on the chassis and knuckle for damage, corrosion, or thread damage. Use a wire brush to clean all mounting surfaces and bolt holes. Check bushings in the chassis mounts for wear or deterioration. Replace any damaged hardware.
10. 10

    Install new trailing arm
    Position the new trailing arm into place, aligning it with the mounting points. You may need to use the suspension jack to support and position the arm. Start with the forward chassis mounting bolt, inserting it through the bushing and chassis mount but do not fully tighten yet. Install any alignment shims or washers in their original positions.
11. 11

    Install rear mounting hardware
    Install the rear mounting bolt connecting the trailing arm to the knuckle or hub assembly. Thread the bolt by hand first to ensure proper alignment, then snug with a wrench but do not torque to final specification yet. All suspension fasteners should be torqued with the vehicle at ride height.
12. 12

    Reconnect shock absorber and sway bar
    Reinstall the lower shock absorber mounting bolt with any spacers or washers in their original positions. Snug but do not fully torque. Reconnect the sway bar end link to the trailing arm if equipped, using a new lock nut if specified by the manufacturer.
13. 13

    Reattach brake components and wiring
    Reroute and secure any brake lines, ABS sensor wiring, or other components that were disconnected. Ensure all clips and retainers are properly fastened and that no wires or hoses are pinched or under tension.
14. 14

    Lower vehicle to ride height and torque all fasteners
    Remove the suspension jack. Install the wheel and snug the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle until the tires just touch the ground (ride height position). With the suspension loaded, torque all trailing arm mounting bolts, shock bolts, and sway bar end link fasteners to manufacturer specifications in the proper sequence. Without factory torque specifications available, consult Rivian service documentation before proceeding.

Reassembly

1. Fully lower vehicle to ground and torque wheel lug nuts in a star pattern to manufacturer specification
2. Reconnect 12V auxiliary battery negative terminal
3. Perform a bounce test on the repaired corner to ensure proper suspension operation and check for any unusual noises
4. Verify all components are secure and no tools or parts were left in the wheel well

Verification

• Test drive vehicle at low speed in a safe area, checking for proper handling, unusual noises, or vibrations from the rear suspension
• Verify that the vehicle tracks straight and that there is no pulling to either side
• Schedule a four-wheel alignment as soon as possible after trailing arm replacement to ensure proper suspension geometry
• Recheck all fastener torque after 50-100 miles of driving
• Inspect for any fluid leaks around brake components if they were disturbed during the repair

More procedures for this vehicle