This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the wiper switch assembly on the steering column of a 2025 Rivian EDV 500 electric delivery van.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Wiper switch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Steering column trim clips (as needed) × 5 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure it is in Park mode
2. Turn off all vehicle systems and remove key fob from cabin
3. Open the front hood and locate the 12V battery in the front compartment
4. Disconnect the negative terminal of the 12V battery and isolate the cable
5. Wait minimum 5 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
6. Adjust steering wheel to lowest and fully extended position for maximum access
7. Ensure adequate lighting in the driver footwell area

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower knee bolster panel
   Locate the lower knee bolster panel below the steering column. Remove the T20 Torx screws (typically 3-4 screws) securing the panel. Gently pull the panel away from the dash to release any retaining clips. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the panel lighting if equipped, then remove the panel completely.
2. 2

   Remove lower steering column cover
   Identify the lower half of the steering column cover. Remove the T20 Torx screws at the bottom of the cover (typically 2 screws). Carefully release the clips on the sides of the cover using a trim removal tool. Separate the lower cover from the upper cover and remove it from the column.
3. 3

   Remove upper steering column cover
   With the lower cover removed, access the fasteners for the upper steering column cover. Remove the T20 Torx screws securing the upper cover (typically 2-3 screws). Gently lift the upper cover away from the column, being careful not to snag any wiring. Set the cover aside.
4. 4

   Locate and access wiper switch assembly
   With the steering column covers removed, locate the wiper switch assembly on the right side of the steering column (driver's perspective). Identify the multi-pin electrical connector attached to the rear of the switch assembly. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Disconnect wiper switch electrical connector
   Locate the locking tab on the electrical connector. Press the release tab firmly while pulling the connector straight away from the switch assembly. If the connector is difficult to access, use needle-nose pliers to depress the locking tab. Ensure the connector is fully disconnected and free from the switch.
   ⚠Do not pull on wires themselves; only pull on the connector body to avoid damaging the wiring harness
6. 6

   Remove wiper switch mounting fasteners
   Locate the mounting screws securing the wiper switch assembly to the steering column bracket. These are typically two T25 Torx screws positioned on the side of the switch housing. Remove both screws completely and retain them for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove wiper switch assembly from column
   With the mounting screws removed, gently slide the wiper switch assembly away from the steering column. The switch may have a tab or guide that needs to be carefully disengaged from the column mounting bracket. Carefully work the switch free while ensuring no wiring is snagged. Remove the old switch assembly completely.
8. 8

   Prepare new wiper switch for installation
   Remove the new wiper switch from its packaging. Compare the new switch to the old unit to verify correct replacement part. Inspect the electrical connector pins on the new switch for any damage or debris. Check that the mounting tabs and alignment features match the original switch.
9. 9

   Install new wiper switch assembly
   Position the new wiper switch assembly onto the steering column bracket, aligning the mounting holes and any guide tabs. Ensure the switch is fully seated against the column bracket. Install the two T25 Torx mounting screws and tighten them securely by hand, ensuring the switch does not move or rotate.
10. 10

    Connect wiper switch electrical connector
    Route the electrical connector to the new wiper switch assembly, following the original harness path. Align the connector with the switch receptacle and push firmly until you hear or feel a positive click indicating the locking tab has engaged. Gently tug on the connector to verify it is securely locked in place.
11. 11

    Reinstall upper steering column cover
    Position the upper steering column cover over the column, ensuring all wiring is properly routed and not pinched. Align the cover with the mounting points and press it into position. Install the T20 Torx screws and tighten them securely. Verify the cover sits flush and does not interfere with steering wheel movement.
12. 12

    Reinstall lower steering column cover
    Align the lower steering column cover with the upper cover and the mounting points on the column. Press the cover into position, ensuring all clips engage properly. Install the T20 Torx screws at the bottom of the cover and tighten securely. Verify both upper and lower covers mate properly with no gaps.
13. 13

    Reinstall knee bolster panel
    If equipped with panel lighting, reconnect any electrical connectors. Position the knee bolster panel and align it with the mounting points. Press the panel into place to engage the retaining clips. Install all T20 Torx screws and tighten securely. Verify the panel is properly seated with no gaps.
14. 14

    Reconnect 12V battery
    Return to the front hood and reconnect the negative terminal to the 12V battery. Tighten the terminal connection securely. Close the front hood.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all steering column trim panels are securely fastened with no gaps or misalignment
2. Verify that the steering wheel has full range of motion without interference from reinstalled covers
3. Confirm all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
4. Check that no tools or fasteners were left in the steering column area

Verification

• Enter the vehicle and power on the electrical systems
• Test all wiper switch functions: intermittent, low speed, high speed, and washer spray
• Verify that the wiper delay settings function correctly if equipped with variable intermittent wipers
• Check that the wiper switch returns to the off position properly
• Confirm no warning lights appear on the instrument cluster related to the wiper system
• Test the rear wiper function if the switch controls rear wiper operation
• Verify the steering wheel can be turned fully in both directions without any binding or interference from the reinstalled trim covers

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