Wiper Linkage

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the windshield wiper linkage assembly on the 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper linkage assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Cowl panel clips × 6 — Use OEM specification
• Wiper motor grommet × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure ignition is off and key fob is at least 20 feet away from vehicle
3. Open frunk and disconnect 12V battery negative terminal
4. Wait at least 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
5. Mark windshield wiper arm rest positions with masking tape for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove wiper arms
   Lift wiper arm away from windshield and remove the plastic cap covering the wiper arm nut. Use a 13mm socket to loosen and remove the wiper arm mounting nuts. Install a wiper arm puller and carefully extract both wiper arms from their splined posts. Remove and set aside wiper arms.
2. 2

   Remove cowl panel grille
   Open the hood fully. Use trim panel tools to carefully pry up the plastic cowl grille panel that runs along the base of the windshield. Release the retaining clips by working from one end to the other. There are typically 6-8 clips securing this panel. Lift the cowl panel up and away, being careful not to damage the washer nozzles integrated into the panel.
3. 3

   Disconnect washer hoses
   Locate the windshield washer fluid hoses connected to the nozzles on the cowl panel. Squeeze the quick-connect fittings and pull the hoses free from the nozzles. Have a shop towel ready to catch any residual washer fluid.
4. 4

   Remove weather seal
   Remove the rubber weather seal strip that runs along the cowl opening. This seal simply pulls out of its channel. Set aside for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Disconnect wiper motor electrical connector
   Locate the wiper motor electrical connector on the driver side of the cowl area. Press the locking tab and pull the connector straight off the wiper motor. If equipped with a secondary park position sensor connector, disconnect that as well.
6. 6

   Remove wiper linkage mounting fasteners
   Use a 10mm socket to remove the three bolts securing the wiper motor bracket to the cowl structure. Use a Torx T30 driver to remove the two screws securing the linkage pivot points on the passenger side of the cowl area.
7. 7

   Remove wiper linkage assembly
   Carefully maneuver the entire wiper linkage assembly (motor, linkage arms, and pivot points) out of the cowl area. The assembly must be angled and rotated to clear the cowl structure. Pull the assembly upward and toward the driver side first, then rotate to extract.
8. 8

   Inspect and prepare new linkage
   Inspect the cowl area for debris, leaves, or water damage. Clean as needed. Compare the new wiper linkage assembly to the old unit to confirm correct part. Check that the wiper motor grommet is in good condition and replace if torn or damaged. Verify that pivot bushings on the new assembly move smoothly without binding.
9. 9

   Install new wiper linkage assembly
   Position the new wiper linkage assembly and carefully lower it into the cowl area using the reverse of the removal procedure. Align the motor bracket mounting holes and the pivot point mounting holes. Ensure the motor grommet seats properly in the firewall opening.
10. 10

    Secure wiper linkage
    Install and tighten the three 10mm bolts securing the wiper motor bracket. Install and tighten the two Torx T30 screws securing the passenger side pivot points. Ensure all fasteners are snug but do not overtighten. Verify that the linkage mechanism moves freely through its full range without binding.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical and test
    Reconnect the wiper motor electrical connector until it clicks into place. Temporarily reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal. Turn the ignition to ON position and test wiper operation through all speeds and intermittent settings to verify proper function before final reassembly. Check that wipers park correctly. Disconnect battery again for final assembly.
12. 12

    Reinstall weather seal and cowl components
    Press the rubber weather seal back into its channel along the cowl opening. Reconnect the washer fluid hoses to the cowl panel nozzles until they click into place. Position the cowl grille panel and press down firmly to engage all retaining clips.
13. 13

    Reinstall wiper arms
    Position wiper arms onto the splined posts, aligning with the tape marks made during removal. Install the 13mm mounting nuts and tighten securely. Press the plastic caps back over the nuts. Ensure both wiper arms are at the correct park position and angle before final tightening.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal and tighten securely
2. Close frunk and ensure all panels are properly seated
3. All trim clips should be fully engaged with no gaps visible

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON and test wiper operation at all speeds (intermittent, low, high)
• Verify wipers park in correct position when turned off
• Test windshield washer function to ensure nozzles spray properly
• Listen for any unusual noises or binding during wiper operation
• Check that wiper blades make full contact with windshield through entire sweep
• Verify no water or air leaks around cowl panel during washer operation
• Confirm no electrical warning messages appear on instrument cluster

More procedures for this vehicle