2023 Rivian R1S 20 inch All-Terrain Performance Dual…
Luxury Electric SUV · AWD
Based on battery health, build quality, owner data, EPA range, and market pricing
Below average for 2023 EV SUVs (class avg 66)
Personalize this scoreIs a low score bad?
Last scanned 22 days ago
2023 Rivian R1S 20-inch All-Terrain Performance Dual Large: 9 recalls on this make/year mean the seller has to show completed paperwork on the exact VIN.
Score read
A 64/100 makes this a records-first inspection. Software and driver-assist score is the cleaner read at 94/100; owner feedback score needs more diligence at 48/100. On Reddit, owners keep flagging the same two issues: owner satisfaction and range. A clean VIN lookup matters more than the headline count.
Price context
This trim started from $85,000 new. Used examples have come down since launch, but pricing varies by miles, condition, and how the model is moving right now; pull a current KBB Fair Purchase, an Edmunds True Market Value, or an active dealer listing for this exact trim, and anchor your offer there. Walk if the seller will not move off new-car-style pricing.
Who this is for
✓ Good for
- ⏱ Daily commuter ≤50 mi/day, predictable charging
- ↦ Road tripper Long trips, needs DC fast network
- ☷ Family hauler 3+ kids, cargo, towing
✗ Avoid if you are a
- $ Bargain hunter Best TCO, reliability + low depreciation
Gotchas
- Serviceable Recall paperwork has to match the exact VIN.
Mitigation Use NHTSA and the automaker lookup, then require repair records instead of a verbal promise.
- Verify Owner feedback is the part to read carefully (48/100).
Mitigation Read the complaint themes and ask whether this VIN has already had those issues repaired.
- Verify Current market pricing is not confirmed well enough for this trim.
Mitigation Compare KBB, J.D. Power, and live listings for the same trim before treating price as a buying signal.
Pre-purchase inspection
- 1 Run the exact VIN through NHTSA and the automaker recall lookup before discussing price.
- 2 Compare the dashboard range estimate with the EPA 307-mile rating after a full charge.
- 3 Confirm how much of the 8-year/175,000-mile battery warranty remains and whether it transfers.
- 4 If road trips matter, run a short DC fast-charge session and watch whether speed tapers normally.
- 5 Read the complaint themes, not just the count, and ask the seller whether those issues have shown up on this VIN.
VIN status first This model has 9 NHTSA recall records. The exact VIN lookup decides whether the car in front of you is clear.
Complaint context This scan found 61 NHTSA complaint records (20.3 per 10K VINs, elevated — verify before purchase). Read the themes below before treating the raw count as the verdict.
Price anchor Current market range is $55,400-$61,679. Use that range to compare listings for the same trim, mileage, and condition.
Pricing & Market Value
Score Breakdown
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Drag the sliders to prioritize what you care about. Your TrimIndex Score recalculates instantly.
Vehicle Specifications
EVs at your price point that match or beat this trim
Price-gated peer set: vehicles within $46.8K–$70.2K market value (±20% of $58.5K). 6 outscore · 0 score within ±2. Mixed across makes — no "spend more, score better" comps.
EV9
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better safety score
EQE
- ✓ Better bang-for-buck
- ✓ Better build quality
- ✓ Better safety score
LYRIQ
- ✓ Better build quality
- ✓ Better owner satisfaction
- ✓ Better safety score
4
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better safety score
- ✓ Better bang-for-buck
Q6 e-tron
- ✓ Notably better build quality
- ✓ Better bang-for-buck
- ✓ Better safety score
iX
- ✓ Better bang-for-buck
- ✓ Happier owners overall
- ✓ Better build quality
The federal $4,000 used-EV credit ended Sept 30, 2025.
But 10 states still run their own used-EV rebate programs — some up to $5,000. Pick your state to see what's available for this trim.
Source & disclaimer
Dealers make ~$14,233 on the average car loan.
After the price is set, the finance manager runs four plays to rebuild margin. Every buyer without a pre-approval is a target. Here's exactly what they run — and what stops each one.
78% of dealer loans carry a hidden +1.13% markup above what the lender actually charges. You never see it — it's buried in the contract. · CFPB
Dealer must match or beat your lender — they can't add margin invisibly. The markup play is dead on arrival.
Once you answer, they stretch the term to hit your number. Median result: $4K less off the price, 12 more months on the loan. · Industry avg
Financing is done. Only the sale price is on the table — and the dealer knows it.
Back-office F&I profit averages $1,975/vehicle, up 8.5% YoY. These products exist — but dealer markup is 4–10x what you'd pay elsewhere. · Dealership Guy
Dealer GAP runs $500–1K. Your insurer sells the same coverage for $100–250 over 5 years. Now you know.
"Your loan fell through — come re-sign." This pulls your APR up +5% on average. It's legal. It works because you've already driven the car home. · Ctr for Responsible Lending
A lender commitment letter means the deal is final. "Pending dealer approval" doesn't apply. You can't be yo-yo'd.
That's 16 months of your car payment — handed to the dealer's finance department for nothing.
Takes 2 minutes. No obligation to use it — but you'll walk in with all the leverage.
Pre-approval is a soft credit inquiry — no score impact. FICO treats all auto-loan hard pulls within 14 days as one, so you can still shop rates at the dealer.
NHTSA Recalls (9)
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2025 R1T and 2022-2026 R1S vehicles. The bolts that secure the second-row driver and passenger side seat belt retractor assemblies may be improperly tightened.
An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not adequately restrain the seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2025 R1S and R1T vehicles that previously had service performed. The toe link may have been reassembled incorrectly during service procedures performed before March 10, 2025.
The toe link joint may separate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2025 R1T and R1S vehicles. The D-ring bolts for one or both front seat belt anchorage assemblies may not have been properly installed.
An improperly secured seat belt may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC. (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1S and R1T vehicles. The maximum vehicle capacity weight value on the tire placard label is incorrect. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
A vehicle with an incorrect maximum capacity weight value may be overloaded, which can increase the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2024 R1T and R1S vehicles. The attachment clips on the upper B-pillar and/or C-pillar trim panels may have been damaged during a service procedure.
Damaged pillar trim panel clips can result in improper side curtain air bag deployment, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC. (Rivian) is recalling certain 2023-2024 EDV, R1S, and R1T vehicles. The headlights may be improperly aimed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamp, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment."
Improperly aimed headlights can result in insufficient illumination of the road, decreasing the driver's visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1T and R1S vehicles. A software update may have deactivated the defroster and defogger system controls.
The inability to operate the windshield defrosting and defogging system can decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1S vehicles. The reverse light beam may not be visible from certain angles. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Reduced visibility of the reverse lights increases the risk of a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govRivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1S vehicles. The fasteners that secure the right and left side curtain air bags may be improperly secured.
Improperly secured side curtain air bags may not perform as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Check VIN status at NHTSA.govNHTSA Complaints (61 total · 20.3 per 10K US vehicles · elevated — verify before purchase)
I pulled into my semicircle, long driveway as I do every morning, and stopped at the top by releasing my foot off the accelerator (no need for brakes as it is an EV). I opened the garage door and slowly stepped on the accelerator, but it started to go fast, and I felt out of control. I immediately released my foot off the accelerator (which should have stopped the vehicle) and slammed on the brakes (there is proof in my driveway with tire marks leading up to the accident) but still did not stop. I quickly realized I was going to crash into the garage, and possibly into the house, so I steered away as much as I could to only drive into and through the side of the garage wall. The space I had would have given me enough time to stop had the car not been driving at a fast speed. Even the neighbors heard braking and ran outside to see what was happening. There is a recording on a ring cam, and you can hear him say "I heard brakes". Oddly, the massive impact did not deploy the airbags. Also, the car usually records all incidents with time before and after (it has successfully done this before when I was rear ended and will if you get too close to anything), but for some reason it recorded what was labeled "incident" and you can only see me pulling into the driveway, the garage door going up, and then the video stops - no record of the crash. The car should have also detected the house. The car only stopped after driving through concrete and stucco, and up the stairs. House has massive damage, personal items in the garage destroyed, and the vehicle is possibly unsalvageable. It took until the next day to see if we could remove the vehicle from my house, but it is now at the service center and Rivian has been notified. I've since researched online and found countless similar incidents.
I pulled into my semicircle, long driveway as I do every morning, and stopped at the top by releasing my foot off the accelerator (no need for brakes as it is an EV). I opened the garage door and slowly stepped on the accelerator, but it started to go fast, and I felt out of control. I immediately released my foot off the accelerator (which should have stopped the vehicle) and slammed on the brakes (there is proof in my driveway with tire marks leading up to the accident) but still did not stop. I quickly realized I was going to crash into the garage, and possibly into the house, so I steered away as much as I could to only drive into and through the side of the garage wall. The space I had would have given me enough time to stop had the car not been driving at a fast speed. Even the neighbors heard braking and ran outside to see what was happening. There is a recording on a ring cam, and you can hear him say "I heard brakes". Oddly, the massive impact did not deploy the airbags. Also, the car usually records all incidents with time before and after (it has successfully done this before when I was rear ended and will if you get too close to anything), but for some reason it recorded what was labeled "incident" and you can only see me pulling into the driveway, the garage door going up, and then the video stops - no record of the crash. The car should have also detected the house. The car only stopped after driving through concrete and stucco, and up the stairs. House has massive damage, personal items in the garage destroyed, and the vehicle is possibly unsalvageable. It took until the next day to see if we could remove the vehicle from my house, but it is now at the service center and Rivian has been notified. I've since researched online and found countless similar incidents.
1> What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? * The sensors don't detect the object sometimes. There were 2 incidents when the car sensors did not detect the object a> In my office parking lot the rear sensors did not detect the fire hydrant and did not make the beep noise resulting in a collision. b> I was driving in my neighborhood; I was blinded by the sun and couldn't see the road ahead. Again, the sensors did not detect the car in front i ended up in a collision. 2> How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? * I had a collision with another car parked by the curbside. Luckily no one was in the other car but both cars had severe damages. I had bruises on my left-hand forearm. 3> Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? * When the first incident happened, I was not able to provide Rivian accurate date and time of the incident and the gear guard did not record the collision although it was supposed to record. So I went back to my office parking lot and i reproduced the problem 1 time after trying several attempts and shared the video with Rivian. I have had too many email exchanges with Rivian to help address the issue but they did not help. 4> Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? * When i reported the first-time issue first time, Rivian inspected the sensors on May 29th 2024 and they said there was no problem with the sensors. But it failed to detect the car in my street and hence i had this collision. I could not see anything as i got blinded by the Sun in the evening. I have a recording from the car's gear guard. 5>Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? * There were no warnings or messages during the incident. However, When it detects it applies the brake. But not this time.
1> What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? * The sensors don't detect the object sometimes. There were 2 incidents when the car sensors did not detect the object a> In my office parking lot the rear sensors did not detect the fire hydrant and did not make the beep noise resulting in a collision. b> I was driving in my neighborhood; I was blinded by the sun and couldn't see the road ahead. Again, the sensors did not detect the car in front i ended up in a collision. 2> How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? * I had a collision with another car parked by the curbside. Luckily no one was in the other car but both cars had severe damages. I had bruises on my left-hand forearm. 3> Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? * When the first incident happened, I was not able to provide Rivian accurate date and time of the incident and the gear guard did not record the collision although it was supposed to record. So I went back to my office parking lot and i reproduced the problem 1 time after trying several attempts and shared the video with Rivian. I have had too many email exchanges with Rivian to help address the issue but they did not help. 4> Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? * When i reported the first-time issue first time, Rivian inspected the sensors on May 29th 2024 and they said there was no problem with the sensors. But it failed to detect the car in my street and hence i had this collision. I could not see anything as i got blinded by the Sun in the evening. I have a recording from the car's gear guard. 5>Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? * There were no warnings or messages during the incident. However, When it detects it applies the brake. But not this time.
Passenger occupancy system seems flaky when my fiance sits in the passenger seat - sometime it takes 30 seconds to register she is there, sometimes it goes off while we are driving if she makes slight adjustments in the seat (while sitting straight and not in any awkward position), which can be dangerous if we were in a near crash situation, her weight shifted causing the airbag not to deploy. Although she is on a smaller side (5’5’’ 110lb) we never had this issue with any car we owned or rented.
Passenger occupancy system seems flaky when my fiance sits in the passenger seat - sometime it takes 30 seconds to register she is there, sometimes it goes off while we are driving if she makes slight adjustments in the seat (while sitting straight and not in any awkward position), which can be dangerous if we were in a near crash situation, her weight shifted causing the airbag not to deploy. Although she is on a smaller side (5’5’’ 110lb) we never had this issue with any car we owned or rented.
(1) Q: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A: "Critical Battery Issue" + "Electrical Hazard Possible; Drive to service center immediately. Avoid driving through water" + "Coming to emergency stop soon; Steer to safety and park" (2) Q: How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A: (1) The car abruptly stopped near a corner in middle of street blocking the street, police had to intervene with traffic *potential for collision/pedestrian strike (2) The car had no electrical, completely blacked out and HAZARD lights didn't work when Police asked to turn them on, nothing would turn on **potential for collision (3) Car was blacked out with all windows down, doors unlocked and unable to get into compartments of vehicle to remove personal items of value due to all electrical being backed out *potential safety / theft concern Police ended up towing due to Rivian being unable to locate a tow in a timely manner the incident occurred at 4:30pm and Police politely waited for Rivian until her 6:30 and then called their local tow yard for secure space for unresponsive unit blocking street (3) Q: Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? A: Not sure - It took Rivian until 11:30am the next day to coordinate a pick up from local tow yard where Police mandated tow due to Rivian being unable to clear a hazard blocking the street (4) Q: Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? A: The local Police were on scene and were highly accommodating directing traffic to mitigate any potential safety issues for pedestrians, drivers and on-lookers. Rivian hasn't shared anything at all and its 24hours+ after the incident (5) Q: Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? A: Yes, as listed above in #1
(1) Q: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? A: "Critical Battery Issue" + "Electrical Hazard Possible; Drive to service center immediately. Avoid driving through water" + "Coming to emergency stop soon; Steer to safety and park" (2) Q: How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? A: (1) The car abruptly stopped near a corner in middle of street blocking the street, police had to intervene with traffic *potential for collision/pedestrian strike (2) The car had no electrical, completely blacked out and HAZARD lights didn't work when Police asked to turn them on, nothing would turn on **potential for collision (3) Car was blacked out with all windows down, doors unlocked and unable to get into compartments of vehicle to remove personal items of value due to all electrical being backed out *potential safety / theft concern Police ended up towing due to Rivian being unable to locate a tow in a timely manner the incident occurred at 4:30pm and Police politely waited for Rivian until her 6:30 and then called their local tow yard for secure space for unresponsive unit blocking street (3) Q: Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? A: Not sure - It took Rivian until 11:30am the next day to coordinate a pick up from local tow yard where Police mandated tow due to Rivian being unable to clear a hazard blocking the street (4) Q: Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? A: The local Police were on scene and were highly accommodating directing traffic to mitigate any potential safety issues for pedestrians, drivers and on-lookers. Rivian hasn't shared anything at all and its 24hours+ after the incident (5) Q: Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? A: Yes, as listed above in #1
I was headed straight but stopped so that I could move into a left turn lane. As I got into the left turn lane and was straightening up behind the person in front of me at almost a dead stop the R1S lunged forward and accelerated at a high rate of speed hitting the car in front of me (speed control issue already known on the R1T). The camera footage verifies it. No warning lights went off (forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking) that there was a car in front of me and to brake (normally if there is a car in front of you that close and the vehicle thinks there will be a collision the screen goes red and the letters BRAKE come up bold in black, the car will brake if it thinks you may hit something). Of course now all my side sensors don’t work. I am still waiting on diagnostics from Rivian. Additionally, my seatbelt didn’t lock throwing me forward. I have only had this SUV two months with 848 miles. The car in front of me had substantial damage. If anyone had been in her backseat especially a child they would have been injured. My safety was in danger with the seatbelt not locking. I am waiting on the diagnostics still from Rivian. Insurance is waiting on Rivian. There had been nothing like this prior to this incident.
I was headed straight but stopped so that I could move into a left turn lane. As I got into the left turn lane and was straightening up behind the person in front of me at almost a dead stop the R1S lunged forward and accelerated at a high rate of speed hitting the car in front of me (speed control issue already known on the R1T). The camera footage verifies it. No warning lights went off (forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking) that there was a car in front of me and to brake (normally if there is a car in front of you that close and the vehicle thinks there will be a collision the screen goes red and the letters BRAKE come up bold in black, the car will brake if it thinks you may hit something). Of course now all my side sensors don’t work. I am still waiting on diagnostics from Rivian. Additionally, my seatbelt didn’t lock throwing me forward. I have only had this SUV two months with 848 miles. The car in front of me had substantial damage. If anyone had been in her backseat especially a child they would have been injured. My safety was in danger with the seatbelt not locking. I am waiting on the diagnostics still from Rivian. Insurance is waiting on Rivian. There had been nothing like this prior to this incident.
Stopped at McDonalds drive through waiting to order with my foot on the brake and the vehicle lunged forward rearending the car stopped 5 feet in front of me ordering. I was trying to brake but it kept pushing the car in front of me then careened to the right hitting a sign and a parked car. I kept pumping the brakes and I thought it was going to run into a building when the vehicle finally stopped about 30 feet from the 2nd parked car it struck. Apparently it was "sudden unintended acceleration" and I've been reading on-line this has happened to many people including Actor Alan Ruck (see article). Rivian has not been responsive to us. Crash involving ‘Ferris Bueller,’ ‘Succession’ actor Alan Ruck was not a crime: LAPD by: Marc SternfieldPosted: Nov 2, 2023 / 03:22 PM PDT No charges will be filed as a result of the multi-car crash in Hollywood involving “Ferris Bueller” and “Succession” actor Alan Ruck, Los Angeles Police told KTLA on Thursday. The collision happened around 9 p.m. on Halloween night at the busy intersection of La Brea Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard. In two surveillance videos obtained by KTLA, Ruck’s Rivian electric pickup truck is seen stopped behind another car at a red light as pedestrians cross in the crosswalk. For reasons still unclear, the truck suddenly lunges forward and rear-ends the other car, and then careens across lanes of traffic, hitting another vehicle before crashing through the wall of Raffallo’s Pizza. At least one person is hospitalized after a three-vehicle collision sent a truck crashing through a pizza shop in Hollywood on Oct.... Actor Alan Ruck is seen at the crash scene. Tim Ratcliff, who owns several adjacent restaurants, rushed to help the actor who he says was more concerned about the safety of the people he hit than his own wellbeing. “I asked him, ‘Are you okay? And the first thing out of his mouth was, ‘Is everyone [else] okay? I think I hit someone. Is he okay?’,” Ratcliff told KTLA.A 32-year-old man from one of th
Stopped at McDonalds drive through waiting to order with my foot on the brake and the vehicle lunged forward rearending the car stopped 5 feet in front of me ordering. I was trying to brake but it kept pushing the car in front of me then careened to the right hitting a sign and a parked car. I kept pumping the brakes and I thought it was going to run into a building when the vehicle finally stopped about 30 feet from the 2nd parked car it struck. Apparently it was "sudden unintended acceleration" and I've been reading on-line this has happened to many people including Actor Alan Ruck (see article). Rivian has not been responsive to us. Crash involving ‘Ferris Bueller,’ ‘Succession’ actor Alan Ruck was not a crime: LAPD by: Marc SternfieldPosted: Nov 2, 2023 / 03:22 PM PDT No charges will be filed as a result of the multi-car crash in Hollywood involving “Ferris Bueller” and “Succession” actor Alan Ruck, Los Angeles Police told KTLA on Thursday. The collision happened around 9 p.m. on Halloween night at the busy intersection of La Brea Avenue and Hollywood Boulevard. In two surveillance videos obtained by KTLA, Ruck’s Rivian electric pickup truck is seen stopped behind another car at a red light as pedestrians cross in the crosswalk. For reasons still unclear, the truck suddenly lunges forward and rear-ends the other car, and then careens across lanes of traffic, hitting another vehicle before crashing through the wall of Raffallo’s Pizza. At least one person is hospitalized after a three-vehicle collision sent a truck crashing through a pizza shop in Hollywood on Oct.... Actor Alan Ruck is seen at the crash scene. Tim Ratcliff, who owns several adjacent restaurants, rushed to help the actor who he says was more concerned about the safety of the people he hit than his own wellbeing. “I asked him, ‘Are you okay? And the first thing out of his mouth was, ‘Is everyone [else] okay? I think I hit someone. Is he okay?’,” Ratcliff told KTLA.A 32-year-old man from one of th
When my wife, 5 ft 5 in about ~100lbs sits in the front passenger seat (legs and feet forward in a regular up-right position), the airbag does not always turn on. It is intermittent and unpredictable when it turns on vs. off. It even turns off and on while driving. It makes us uncomfortable not knowing if she is protected in a crash. Rivian has told us it's working as expected but the photos show otherwise and they say there is nothing they can do to fix.
When my wife, 5 ft 5 in about ~100lbs sits in the front passenger seat (legs and feet forward in a regular up-right position), the airbag does not always turn on. It is intermittent and unpredictable when it turns on vs. off. It even turns off and on while driving. It makes us uncomfortable not knowing if she is protected in a crash. Rivian has told us it's working as expected but the photos show otherwise and they say there is nothing they can do to fix.
Immediately after purchasing the vehicle, I got error codes thrown to service the suspension while driving to my house, specifically at 15-20mph over traffic calming bumps. This fault cleared immediately the first few times. On July 25 I submitted a service request as my family headed out on a two week, 900 mile trip. The service suspension fault had returned and disabled my ability to change modes/ride heights, blind spot sensors and cruise control, all of which I was counting on using during trip. I shut off and restarted the vehicle several times trying to clear the fault and regain functionality, but the fault inevitably returned. On July 25, Rivian added a response in the service portal that they would address the problem by July 28th. I heard nothing more. On August 1, I was driving south on HWY 57 in North Idaho. I hoped that code would have cleared, but it came back on almost immediately. After driving for about 5 miles, I decided to pull over at a visitor center parking lot to try and reset again to change modes, regain safety sensors, and cruise control. While turning left into the parking lot, another driver tried to pass on my left on a double yellow line driving above the 55mph speed limit. He collided with the front left part of my vehicle, damaging the body and breaking the front tie rod ends, leaving me unable to steer or drive forward, disabled, in the oncoming traffic lane. I asked Rivian to share data about the turn signal use, brake light, and speed data at the time of the accident with me. They did not respond in writing, but called and refused, getting quite angry during the call. After researching and observing other Rivians, I don't believe that my brake lights were on during regenerative braking. The rear, side, and blind spot sensors were disabled. Turning 1/4 second sooner or 5º sharper would have killed me.
Immediately after purchasing the vehicle, I got error codes thrown to service the suspension while driving to my house, specifically at 15-20mph over traffic calming bumps. This fault cleared immediately the first few times. On July 25 I submitted a service request as my family headed out on a two week, 900 mile trip. The service suspension fault had returned and disabled my ability to change modes/ride heights, blind spot sensors and cruise control, all of which I was counting on using during trip. I shut off and restarted the vehicle several times trying to clear the fault and regain functionality, but the fault inevitably returned. On July 25, Rivian added a response in the service portal that they would address the problem by July 28th. I heard nothing more. On August 1, I was driving south on HWY 57 in North Idaho. I hoped that code would have cleared, but it came back on almost immediately. After driving for about 5 miles, I decided to pull over at a visitor center parking lot to try and reset again to change modes, regain safety sensors, and cruise control. While turning left into the parking lot, another driver tried to pass on my left on a double yellow line driving above the 55mph speed limit. He collided with the front left part of my vehicle, damaging the body and breaking the front tie rod ends, leaving me unable to steer or drive forward, disabled, in the oncoming traffic lane. I asked Rivian to share data about the turn signal use, brake light, and speed data at the time of the accident with me. They did not respond in writing, but called and refused, getting quite angry during the call. After researching and observing other Rivians, I don't believe that my brake lights were on during regenerative braking. The rear, side, and blind spot sensors were disabled. Turning 1/4 second sooner or 5º sharper would have killed me.
Yesterday was the 3rd time in 2 months that the vehicle displayed a "Airbag System needs service - Drive with caution until serviced" warning. I have taken it to Rivian 2 times where each time they replaced various components of the airbag system and it was reported to be fixed. Yesterday the warning returned. I am extremely concerned that Rivian does not have the ability to properly diagnose and or fix whatever the underlying issue is regarding my airbag system. I am now scheduled to take my vehicle in for the 3rd time for them to "try to figure it out".
Yesterday was the 3rd time in 2 months that the vehicle displayed a "Airbag System needs service - Drive with caution until serviced" warning. I have taken it to Rivian 2 times where each time they replaced various components of the airbag system and it was reported to be fixed. Yesterday the warning returned. I am extremely concerned that Rivian does not have the ability to properly diagnose and or fix whatever the underlying issue is regarding my airbag system. I am now scheduled to take my vehicle in for the 3rd time for them to "try to figure it out".
On five separate occasions the airbag system on my car has become inoperable. Starting in July 2025 I noticed an airbag error on the display of the vehicle. I brought the car in for service and they replaced the steering wheel. The airbag error occurred again in August, this time requiring replacement of a different wiring harness. The error occurred again and again went in for service in November, this time replacing the front seats, seatbelt control modules, and the airbag module. This past weekend the air bag alert appeared again. Rivian seems unable to fix the issue with the airbags on my vehicle creating a significant safety concern.
On five separate occasions the airbag system on my car has become inoperable. Starting in July 2025 I noticed an airbag error on the display of the vehicle. I brought the car in for service and they replaced the steering wheel. The airbag error occurred again in August, this time requiring replacement of a different wiring harness. The error occurred again and again went in for service in November, this time replacing the front seats, seatbelt control modules, and the airbag module. This past weekend the air bag alert appeared again. Rivian seems unable to fix the issue with the airbags on my vehicle creating a significant safety concern.
Front passenger airbag is inactive for long periods of time while a passenger is seated in the vehicle during operation. This is indicated by the message displaying the airbag as being off. This occurs regularly with an adult seated normally in the seat while traveling at highway speeds, for long periods of time. I reported this to Rivian and they said the car is functioning normally but it does not seem safe that the airbag is turned off with a passenger present in the vehicle during operation. I am listing the latest incident date here but this has been persistent since I purchased the car new in 2023.
Front passenger airbag is inactive for long periods of time while a passenger is seated in the vehicle during operation. This is indicated by the message displaying the airbag as being off. This occurs regularly with an adult seated normally in the seat while traveling at highway speeds, for long periods of time. I reported this to Rivian and they said the car is functioning normally but it does not seem safe that the airbag is turned off with a passenger present in the vehicle during operation. I am listing the latest incident date here but this has been persistent since I purchased the car new in 2023.
I am experiencing an ongoing and unresolved steering column defect in my 2023 Rivian R1S, which creates a serious safety risk while driving. Issue Details: The steering wheel drops unexpectedly when weight is applied, even lightly. This occurs both while the vehicle is stationary and while driving, including when hitting small bumps in the road. The issue compromises steering stability and could lead to a loss of vehicle control. Repair Attempts & Rivian’s Response: I have taken the vehicle to Rivian Service Centers four times for this issue. Rivian has replaced the steering column three times (May 2024, July 2024, January 2025), but the issue persists. Rivian has now claimed this is a "normal characteristic" of the vehicle, despite previously acknowledging it as a defect and attempting multiple fixes. I requested a written statement regarding their refusal to fix the issue further, but they have not responded. Safety Concern: My father currently drives the vehicle, and I am deeply concerned that the steering column could fail while he is driving, leading to an accident. The steering instability may cause loss of control, particularly at higher speeds or in emergency maneuvers. Rivian’s failure to fix this issue despite multiple repair attempts indicates a potential systemic defect that could affect other Rivian R1S vehicles. Requested Action: I am filing this complaint to document this safety hazard and request that the NHTSA investigate whether this defect affects other Rivian vehicles. Given that Rivian has failed to properly address this issue, I urge the NHTSA to take action to make sure driver safety, including a potential recall if necessary.
I am experiencing an ongoing and unresolved steering column defect in my 2023 Rivian R1S, which creates a serious safety risk while driving. Issue Details: The steering wheel drops unexpectedly when weight is applied, even lightly. This occurs both while the vehicle is stationary and while driving, including when hitting small bumps in the road. The issue compromises steering stability and could lead to a loss of vehicle control. Repair Attempts & Rivian’s Response: I have taken the vehicle to Rivian Service Centers four times for this issue. Rivian has replaced the steering column three times (May 2024, July 2024, January 2025), but the issue persists. Rivian has now claimed this is a "normal characteristic" of the vehicle, despite previously acknowledging it as a defect and attempting multiple fixes. I requested a written statement regarding their refusal to fix the issue further, but they have not responded. Safety Concern: My father currently drives the vehicle, and I am deeply concerned that the steering column could fail while he is driving, leading to an accident. The steering instability may cause loss of control, particularly at higher speeds or in emergency maneuvers. Rivian’s failure to fix this issue despite multiple repair attempts indicates a potential systemic defect that could affect other Rivian R1S vehicles. Requested Action: I am filing this complaint to document this safety hazard and request that the NHTSA investigate whether this defect affects other Rivian vehicles. Given that Rivian has failed to properly address this issue, I urge the NHTSA to take action to make sure driver safety, including a potential recall if necessary.
the sensitivity of the airbag sensor on the passenger seat is not functioning properly in my opinion. there are times when there is a passenger present and seated, the car is showing that the passenger airbag is off. I took the car to Rivian service center. They indicated that they could not replicate the problem and that to make sure the passengers are over 110 lbs. They also noted that with future software update, they may make it better, which indicates to me that they know there is a problem. I know for a fact that my passengers have been over 110 lbs.
the sensitivity of the airbag sensor on the passenger seat is not functioning properly in my opinion. there are times when there is a passenger present and seated, the car is showing that the passenger airbag is off. I took the car to Rivian service center. They indicated that they could not replicate the problem and that to make sure the passengers are over 110 lbs. They also noted that with future software update, they may make it better, which indicates to me that they know there is a problem. I know for a fact that my passengers have been over 110 lbs.
On our drive back from Yosemite, we began descending from Groveland, CA after leaving the Rivian charging station. Due to heavy rain, the car ahead of me was moving cautiously, limiting my speed to about 20 mph while maintaining a safe distance during the descent to Moccasin, CA. Thanks to the regenerative braking, I didn’t need to apply the brakes, as the car automatically slowed when I wasn’t pressing the throttle. However, my windows started to fog up, so I turned on the defoggers. Shortly after, I noticed the car’s door locks repeatedly unlocking and locking by themselves. As we neared the bottom of the descent, I began to smell something burning from the vents. This prompted me to step on the brake pedal for the first time, but it felt unusually stiff, with little travel. The car didn’t slow down, and the burning smell intensified. I pressed the brake pedal repeatedly, but it felt stuck, and the car did not decelerate. Eventually, I was able to roll to a stop. I pulled over to a side street where the issue persisted. I turned off the defogger and contacted Rivian via SOS. We were able to replicate the brake issue on the side street: as I maneuvered the car, the brake pedal sank on its own when the defogger was on. Once I turned it off, the pedal returned to normal. There were no warning lights or alerts from the car system. When I got out of the car, the burning smell was strong near the front wheels. It was clear that my family’s safety was at risk, including 3 young children. The car was towed to a service center, where it’s being inspected. Rivian hasn’t been able to reproduce the issue yet. I believe the regenerative brakes weren’t working properly, causing the car to rely on the regular brakes for the entire descent. This likely led to brake failure at the bottom, with the burning smell originating from overheated brakes. I also suspect that the overheating caused other electrical issues, which could explain why the door locks kept cycling on and off.
On our drive back from Yosemite, we began descending from Groveland, CA after leaving the Rivian charging station. Due to heavy rain, the car ahead of me was moving cautiously, limiting my speed to about 20 mph while maintaining a safe distance during the descent to Moccasin, CA. Thanks to the regenerative braking, I didn’t need to apply the brakes, as the car automatically slowed when I wasn’t pressing the throttle. However, my windows started to fog up, so I turned on the defoggers. Shortly after, I noticed the car’s door locks repeatedly unlocking and locking by themselves. As we neared the bottom of the descent, I began to smell something burning from the vents. This prompted me to step on the brake pedal for the first time, but it felt unusually stiff, with little travel. The car didn’t slow down, and the burning smell intensified. I pressed the brake pedal repeatedly, but it felt stuck, and the car did not decelerate. Eventually, I was able to roll to a stop. I pulled over to a side street where the issue persisted. I turned off the defogger and contacted Rivian via SOS. We were able to replicate the brake issue on the side street: as I maneuvered the car, the brake pedal sank on its own when the defogger was on. Once I turned it off, the pedal returned to normal. There were no warning lights or alerts from the car system. When I got out of the car, the burning smell was strong near the front wheels. It was clear that my family’s safety was at risk, including 3 young children. The car was towed to a service center, where it’s being inspected. Rivian hasn’t been able to reproduce the issue yet. I believe the regenerative brakes weren’t working properly, causing the car to rely on the regular brakes for the entire descent. This likely led to brake failure at the bottom, with the burning smell originating from overheated brakes. I also suspect that the overheating caused other electrical issues, which could explain why the door locks kept cycling on and off.
The passenger seat airbag turns off when a passenger is sitting in the seat. I have taken the vehicle to the service center twice for this issue and they insist it is working as intended. This is a major safety issue for myself and children when we are sitting in the passenger seat. Please help in resolving this!
The passenger seat airbag turns off when a passenger is sitting in the seat. I have taken the vehicle to the service center twice for this issue and they insist it is working as intended. This is a major safety issue for myself and children when we are sitting in the passenger seat. Please help in resolving this!
My right front passenger seat does not detect adult occupants reliably, and therefore does not enable the airbags. My wife is approximately 105 pounds and sits in the seat in a standard upright fashion without leaning back. Her legs are not crossed and are just resting on the floor. it is rare that the vehicle detects her presence and therefore she is rarely protected by the safety restraint system in the event of an accident. I brought the vehicle into Rivian Service and they inspected and said the sensor is working properly and is designed to detect occupants roughly 105 to 110 pounds. They said there is nothing that they can do about it. Every other vehicle I currently own and have owned in the past properly detects her presence for the SRS system.
My right front passenger seat does not detect adult occupants reliably, and therefore does not enable the airbags. My wife is approximately 105 pounds and sits in the seat in a standard upright fashion without leaning back. Her legs are not crossed and are just resting on the floor. it is rare that the vehicle detects her presence and therefore she is rarely protected by the safety restraint system in the event of an accident. I brought the vehicle into Rivian Service and they inspected and said the sensor is working properly and is designed to detect occupants roughly 105 to 110 pounds. They said there is nothing that they can do about it. Every other vehicle I currently own and have owned in the past properly detects her presence for the SRS system.
The Rivian is designed to kill fat people. The Airbag for the passenger seat does not function if there is a large person in the seat or the seat is very far forward with a normal person. When someone sits in the passenger seat the lower left corner of the central display changes from “Passenger Airbag Off” to the passenger climate control display. If you pull the seatbelt all the way out the display reverts back to the “Passenger Airbag Off” sign. The seat belt has to retract about 6 inches back into the B pillar for the climate control display to come back on. If the seat belt can’t retract far enough back into the B pillar, you have to drive around with an inoperable passenger seatbelt. I have been able to duplicate this feature on every Rivian I have tried it on. This has been reported to Rivian. A mechanic was sent to my house to repair this. It couldn’t be repaired as expected. I was told the problem would be elevated to a safety issue and sent to engineering. That was in the beginning of February 2024. No answers or fix yet. I have video of the problem, but mp4 files are not accepted below. Please contact me if you would like video.
The Rivian is designed to kill fat people. The Airbag for the passenger seat does not function if there is a large person in the seat or the seat is very far forward with a normal person. When someone sits in the passenger seat the lower left corner of the central display changes from “Passenger Airbag Off” to the passenger climate control display. If you pull the seatbelt all the way out the display reverts back to the “Passenger Airbag Off” sign. The seat belt has to retract about 6 inches back into the B pillar for the climate control display to come back on. If the seat belt can’t retract far enough back into the B pillar, you have to drive around with an inoperable passenger seatbelt. I have been able to duplicate this feature on every Rivian I have tried it on. This has been reported to Rivian. A mechanic was sent to my house to repair this. It couldn’t be repaired as expected. I was told the problem would be elevated to a safety issue and sent to engineering. That was in the beginning of February 2024. No answers or fix yet. I have video of the problem, but mp4 files are not accepted below. Please contact me if you would like video.
The passenger side airbag shows that it is turned off about 50% of the time that my wife is riding in the passenger seat. She meets the minimum weight requirement for passenger airbag deployment. If she moves around in the seat the airbag off light will go out temporarily but usually comes back on within several miles of driving. This vehicle is available for inspection. When this happens my wife or any other passenger is at risk of not having an airbag if an accident was to occur. This issues has been looked at several times by the manufacturer and I was told that the vehicle is operating as intended. No resonable solution was offered. The only solution from the manufacturer was to have the passenger move around or adjust the seat until the airbag came on. Then have the passenger stay in that position for the duration of the ride. We’ve tried this and it doesn’t work the airbag still turns off.
The passenger side airbag shows that it is turned off about 50% of the time that my wife is riding in the passenger seat. She meets the minimum weight requirement for passenger airbag deployment. If she moves around in the seat the airbag off light will go out temporarily but usually comes back on within several miles of driving. This vehicle is available for inspection. When this happens my wife or any other passenger is at risk of not having an airbag if an accident was to occur. This issues has been looked at several times by the manufacturer and I was told that the vehicle is operating as intended. No resonable solution was offered. The only solution from the manufacturer was to have the passenger move around or adjust the seat until the airbag came on. Then have the passenger stay in that position for the duration of the ride. We’ve tried this and it doesn’t work the airbag still turns off.
Since the vehicle was new, I have had a problem with the air bag being off when a large person is in the passenger seat. I have reported this to Rivian. Rivian has sent a technician out to fix this. The technician indicated that he could not fix this as planned and would submit it to engineering as a safety issue. I have made multiple inquiries since then and received no information on when this will be resolved. I have also had 3 software updates since then and the problem has not been resolved. I have been able to duplicate the problem on another R1S. If you sit in the passenger seat the passenger climate controls will become available. If you pull the seatbelt all the way out of the B pillar, the passenger climate control will go away and you will get the passenger airbag off notification. If the seatbelt can go back into the B pillar about 8 inches, the climate control setting will return. If you are a large person or have the seat forward and the seatbelt can't retract that far, you are passenger without airbag protection.
Since the vehicle was new, I have had a problem with the air bag being off when a large person is in the passenger seat. I have reported this to Rivian. Rivian has sent a technician out to fix this. The technician indicated that he could not fix this as planned and would submit it to engineering as a safety issue. I have made multiple inquiries since then and received no information on when this will be resolved. I have also had 3 software updates since then and the problem has not been resolved. I have been able to duplicate the problem on another R1S. If you sit in the passenger seat the passenger climate controls will become available. If you pull the seatbelt all the way out of the B pillar, the passenger climate control will go away and you will get the passenger airbag off notification. If the seatbelt can go back into the B pillar about 8 inches, the climate control setting will return. If you are a large person or have the seat forward and the seatbelt can't retract that far, you are passenger without airbag protection.
My wife does not shows up as a passenger in the front seat about 30% of the time with the seatbelt fastened. She is 105~108 lbs. This is a continuing problem with no fix in sight. Not registering when seated means two key things: 1) no airbag support in case of an accident 2) passenger side climate control doesn't function separately from synced mode. After multiple attempt with the Rivian service center/mobile service, all they can only say that it's within spec. Rivian SC staffs say that SW fix is coming. That was 4 over the air firmware updates ago. Unfortunately the problem is so small in terms of affected population, they have done nothing to date.
My wife does not shows up as a passenger in the front seat about 30% of the time with the seatbelt fastened. She is 105~108 lbs. This is a continuing problem with no fix in sight. Not registering when seated means two key things: 1) no airbag support in case of an accident 2) passenger side climate control doesn't function separately from synced mode. After multiple attempt with the Rivian service center/mobile service, all they can only say that it's within spec. Rivian SC staffs say that SW fix is coming. That was 4 over the air firmware updates ago. Unfortunately the problem is so small in terms of affected population, they have done nothing to date.
Every time my wife gets into the front passenger seat the sensor in the seat doesn’t recognize her sitting down and doesn’t active the passenger side airbag also the climate control is inactive. Rivian claims that there is a seat weight limit but my wife weighs 145 lbs. this happens all the time until my wife moves around enough to activate it. Then sometimes it turns off in the middle of a drive as if there wasn’t a passenger in that seat. This has also occurred with some heavier passengers. Rivian claims nothing wrong with the vehicle. I took delivery at the end of October and the problem still continues.
Every time my wife gets into the front passenger seat the sensor in the seat doesn’t recognize her sitting down and doesn’t active the passenger side airbag also the climate control is inactive. Rivian claims that there is a seat weight limit but my wife weighs 145 lbs. this happens all the time until my wife moves around enough to activate it. Then sometimes it turns off in the middle of a drive as if there wasn’t a passenger in that seat. This has also occurred with some heavier passengers. Rivian claims nothing wrong with the vehicle. I took delivery at the end of October and the problem still continues.
Longstanding issue with R1S and R1T’s not recognizing a front passenger is present. Many reports in online forums regarding the same problem and ours does not even see a 6’4” 450lb passenger regularly. Other complainants are reporting feedback that it’s ‘within spec’, ‘it’s safer for smaller passengers’, and that ‘you need to sit in the seat properly’(?!). Please do something about this serious safety issue. Thanks.
Longstanding issue with R1S and R1T’s not recognizing a front passenger is present. Many reports in online forums regarding the same problem and ours does not even see a 6’4” 450lb passenger regularly. Other complainants are reporting feedback that it’s ‘within spec’, ‘it’s safer for smaller passengers’, and that ‘you need to sit in the seat properly’(?!). Please do something about this serious safety issue. Thanks.
The passenger airbag does not consistently turn on or stay on with passengers in the seat.
The passenger airbag does not consistently turn on or stay on with passengers in the seat.
The system does not turn on the airbags for driver or passenger under 140 pounds. This is a safety hazard.
The system does not turn on the airbags for driver or passenger under 140 pounds. This is a safety hazard.
The passenger seat doesn’t recognize a passenger in the seat. Happpens all the time for my wife, who ways 120lbs… there are hundreds of folks who also have this problem with the Rivian passenger seat/driver seats. Huge safety issue.
The passenger seat doesn’t recognize a passenger in the seat. Happpens all the time for my wife, who ways 120lbs… there are hundreds of folks who also have this problem with the Rivian passenger seat/driver seats. Huge safety issue.
Intermittently does not register a passenger in the passenger seat (even with a seatbelt on and seat upright in a normal position) such that the airbags are turned off and climate controls are not activated. Passenger weighs more than 120 lbs.
Intermittently does not register a passenger in the passenger seat (even with a seatbelt on and seat upright in a normal position) such that the airbags are turned off and climate controls are not activated. Passenger weighs more than 120 lbs.
A passenger of lighter weight will not trigger the passenger seat’s weight sensor, rendering the passenger side airbag disabled. The passenger must sit up perfectly straight and center their weight on the center of the seat for them to be properly detected. A service center visit claimed the seats are working as designed, but there is clearly an issue.
A passenger of lighter weight will not trigger the passenger seat’s weight sensor, rendering the passenger side airbag disabled. The passenger must sit up perfectly straight and center their weight on the center of the seat for them to be properly detected. A service center visit claimed the seats are working as designed, but there is clearly an issue.
Vehicle routinely (>90% of the time) fails to detect occupancy of front passenger seat resulting in disabled airbags and other related safety systems. Our particular vehicle experiences the issue with passengers ranging from 150-425lbs resulting in a significant safety concern. Searching online indicates this is a common issue and repair requests are routinely denied with claims that it is operating correctly. Others have been told it is due to posture or seating position…I’ve never had a vehicle whose safety features were disabled due to poor posture?!
Vehicle routinely (>90% of the time) fails to detect occupancy of front passenger seat resulting in disabled airbags and other related safety systems. Our particular vehicle experiences the issue with passengers ranging from 150-425lbs resulting in a significant safety concern. Searching online indicates this is a common issue and repair requests are routinely denied with claims that it is operating correctly. Others have been told it is due to posture or seating position…I’ve never had a vehicle whose safety features were disabled due to poor posture?!
Passenger seat does not detect my 5'4" 110lb wife, thus preventing the airbags from activating. This is the first car we've encountered with this problem. Is Rivian accounting for the fact that the weight occupancy sensor account for the weight of the legs placed on the floor? Please let us know if there will be a recall or a software update to address this.
Passenger seat does not detect my 5'4" 110lb wife, thus preventing the airbags from activating. This is the first car we've encountered with this problem. Is Rivian accounting for the fact that the weight occupancy sensor account for the weight of the legs placed on the floor? Please let us know if there will be a recall or a software update to address this.
Passenger seat does not detect light to normal weight/BMI adult buckled in and disables the front passenger airbag. Vehicle service state it is working as intended. Therefore, for all intent and purposes the vehicle does not have passenger airbag.
Passenger seat does not detect light to normal weight/BMI adult buckled in and disables the front passenger airbag. Vehicle service state it is working as intended. Therefore, for all intent and purposes the vehicle does not have passenger airbag.
I was at 44% state of charge and the ambient temp was around 65 F. While taking a turn at an intersection, the vehicle reduced regenerative braking(regen bar on the vehicle was greyed out) had I had quickly break as the car started to coast. This only lasted for 8-10 secs and the vehicle had regular regen breaking. Rivian don’t have blended braking, so if that had happened in different situations that needed much faster reaction time I would be in trouble. Issue 1: vehicle randomly decided to go into reduced regen for a brief period even at ideal conditions for regen( low SoC and normal temp, vehicle drive only for 5 mins) Issue 2: There is no blended braking to compensate for this in such situation, putting the driver/passengers at risk
I was at 44% state of charge and the ambient temp was around 65 F. While taking a turn at an intersection, the vehicle reduced regenerative braking(regen bar on the vehicle was greyed out) had I had quickly break as the car started to coast. This only lasted for 8-10 secs and the vehicle had regular regen breaking. Rivian don’t have blended braking, so if that had happened in different situations that needed much faster reaction time I would be in trouble. Issue 1: vehicle randomly decided to go into reduced regen for a brief period even at ideal conditions for regen( low SoC and normal temp, vehicle drive only for 5 mins) Issue 2: There is no blended braking to compensate for this in such situation, putting the driver/passengers at risk
The front Passenger seat intermittently disables the Passenger Air Bag System, depending on the movement of the passenger. For example, my girlfriend was sitting in the seat, with her legs crossed. When she is in this position, the system disables. If she shifts her weight around, the system reenables. This is repeatable, with numerous members of my family. I had the vehicle in service, and they were not able to reproduce the issue (No trouble found). As soon as I got my daughter, in the care,the issue presented itself once again. My daughter is 108 lbs.
The front Passenger seat intermittently disables the Passenger Air Bag System, depending on the movement of the passenger. For example, my girlfriend was sitting in the seat, with her legs crossed. When she is in this position, the system disables. If she shifts her weight around, the system reenables. This is repeatable, with numerous members of my family. I had the vehicle in service, and they were not able to reproduce the issue (No trouble found). As soon as I got my daughter, in the care,the issue presented itself once again. My daughter is 108 lbs.
Software update rolled out version 2023.42.0 and now the vehicle screen is black and HVAC does not work. It is unclear if any safety or airbag systems are operational. Cameras not working.
Software update rolled out version 2023.42.0 and now the vehicle screen is black and HVAC does not work. It is unclear if any safety or airbag systems are operational. Cameras not working.
One fine morning, went to start the car and the car threw a bunch of error messages related to servicing 12 V battery system and dis-engaged the parking brake that lead the vehicle to start rolling down the driveway. The message on screen warned of applying brakes, and luckily circumstances were safe around the car, and I was able to apply brakes and was able to reboot the car and systems restored. Considering this vehicle does not have traditional ignition and is capable of waking up via remote application, and this incident happened merely as the vehicle was waking up, this can be a dangerous situation especially if it happens while unattended. The vehicle does not have mechanical parking brake controls, and is completely computer controlled. The fail safe condition around parking brake systems and circuit/software faults need to make sure parking brake stays engaged during any computer faults.
One fine morning, went to start the car and the car threw a bunch of error messages related to servicing 12 V battery system and dis-engaged the parking brake that lead the vehicle to start rolling down the driveway. The message on screen warned of applying brakes, and luckily circumstances were safe around the car, and I was able to apply brakes and was able to reboot the car and systems restored. Considering this vehicle does not have traditional ignition and is capable of waking up via remote application, and this incident happened merely as the vehicle was waking up, this can be a dangerous situation especially if it happens while unattended. The vehicle does not have mechanical parking brake controls, and is completely computer controlled. The fail safe condition around parking brake systems and circuit/software faults need to make sure parking brake stays engaged during any computer faults.
Passenger side airbag off sign stayed on while my girlfriend was sitting in the seat. She weighs about 100 pounds. When I sat in the passenger seat, the Passenger side airbag off sign turned off. I weigh about 170 pounds.
Passenger side airbag off sign stayed on while my girlfriend was sitting in the seat. She weighs about 100 pounds. When I sat in the passenger seat, the Passenger side airbag off sign turned off. I weigh about 170 pounds.
I noticed when driving with a passenger (female, approximately 135 pounds) that the screen keeps switching between "PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF" and showing the vehicle detects the passenger (hence the airbag is on). I'm concerned about the safety of my passenger when driving as I do not know whether the passenger airbag will work properly. I took photos and videos of this issue with my vehicle as it is reproducible when driving with this passenger. I took the vehicle to the manufacturer's service center, and they noted: "Followed along with the repair plan created by diagnostics team, notated each step as completed, upon following repair plan was unable to duplicate customer concern, found the occupancy sensor works as expected, The occupancy sensor is very sensitive and dependent upon the weight being distributed equally throughout the seat, if the occupant sits too far forward in the seat the sensor will not detect the weight". The issue was first detected on September 9, 2023 and the vehicle had less than 1000 miles on the odometer.
I noticed when driving with a passenger (female, approximately 135 pounds) that the screen keeps switching between "PASSENGER AIRBAG OFF" and showing the vehicle detects the passenger (hence the airbag is on). I'm concerned about the safety of my passenger when driving as I do not know whether the passenger airbag will work properly. I took photos and videos of this issue with my vehicle as it is reproducible when driving with this passenger. I took the vehicle to the manufacturer's service center, and they noted: "Followed along with the repair plan created by diagnostics team, notated each step as completed, upon following repair plan was unable to duplicate customer concern, found the occupancy sensor works as expected, The occupancy sensor is very sensitive and dependent upon the weight being distributed equally throughout the seat, if the occupant sits too far forward in the seat the sensor will not detect the weight". The issue was first detected on September 9, 2023 and the vehicle had less than 1000 miles on the odometer.
Vehicle lunged to the right without any driver input. Damaged rim and wheel and could have hurt someone. Have never experienced anything like this in my life. Steering wheel was perfectly straight but vehicle lunges to the right. This is a safety issue.
Vehicle lunged to the right without any driver input. Damaged rim and wheel and could have hurt someone. Have never experienced anything like this in my life. Steering wheel was perfectly straight but vehicle lunges to the right. This is a safety issue.
They have set the sensors for the passenger airbag outside of the acceptable department standards. There are many instances where a person under 120 pounds does not activate the sensor and therefore the passenger airbag is not activated. I have notified the company on several occasions and not been given any response other than they are aware or it is working as intended. It is not worth someone getting hurt to create a response.
They have set the sensors for the passenger airbag outside of the acceptable department standards. There are many instances where a person under 120 pounds does not activate the sensor and therefore the passenger airbag is not activated. I have notified the company on several occasions and not been given any response other than they are aware or it is working as intended. It is not worth someone getting hurt to create a response.
The car automatically, abruptly, and without warning shift into park as I slowed down at a stop sign and stalled in the middle of the road. It did not shift into Park for 30-35 mins and even after doing hard and soft resets while on the phone with service. Somehow it worked again after my hitting the brakes several times and I was able to move it out to the side and drive it back home. This issue has happened multiple times in the past too but it only happened for a few seconds as opposed to such a long time. The car had a ‘charger not connected properly’ warning on the dashboard. My safety and that of my wife was put in danger as an abrupt and automatic shift to park disrupted traffic and we could’ve been rear-ended. This is also a particularly troubling issue if the car stalls abruptly when slowing down on the freeway and cars in the back are speeding up and end up rear-ending my car. This situation could be fatal. I wasn’t able to reproduce the event but it has happened to me multiple times in the past. Rivian is looking into this issue now as I’ve dropped off my car for service today (9/6). I did receive responses to my post on Reddit about this situation and other customers complaining of experiencing the same issue. There were no warning lamps or prior warnings of this issue. The dashboard showed a charger not installed correctly error but I believe that’s for another issue I’ve had with the car where the car does not fast charge. The issue first appeared for me in stop and go traffic in Seattle downtown a few days after taking delivery of the car in June, and once again on the Canada-US border in Vancouver in July when moving slowly in line to reach the immigration booth. The car abruptly stopped and would not shift back to drive. It took a minute or two but it eventually shifted back to drive.
The car automatically, abruptly, and without warning shift into park as I slowed down at a stop sign and stalled in the middle of the road. It did not shift into Park for 30-35 mins and even after doing hard and soft resets while on the phone with service. Somehow it worked again after my hitting the brakes several times and I was able to move it out to the side and drive it back home. This issue has happened multiple times in the past too but it only happened for a few seconds as opposed to such a long time. The car had a ‘charger not connected properly’ warning on the dashboard. My safety and that of my wife was put in danger as an abrupt and automatic shift to park disrupted traffic and we could’ve been rear-ended. This is also a particularly troubling issue if the car stalls abruptly when slowing down on the freeway and cars in the back are speeding up and end up rear-ending my car. This situation could be fatal. I wasn’t able to reproduce the event but it has happened to me multiple times in the past. Rivian is looking into this issue now as I’ve dropped off my car for service today (9/6). I did receive responses to my post on Reddit about this situation and other customers complaining of experiencing the same issue. There were no warning lamps or prior warnings of this issue. The dashboard showed a charger not installed correctly error but I believe that’s for another issue I’ve had with the car where the car does not fast charge. The issue first appeared for me in stop and go traffic in Seattle downtown a few days after taking delivery of the car in June, and once again on the Canada-US border in Vancouver in July when moving slowly in line to reach the immigration booth. The car abruptly stopped and would not shift back to drive. It took a minute or two but it eventually shifted back to drive.
When the passenger seat is occupied, we intermittently get a message that the airbag is off (and the heating/ac controls for the passenger side go away). This occurred when the seat was occupied by two of my sons (one 6'1", 145 lbs and the other 5'9" and 155 lbs). We took the car in to get checked and while Rivian noticed the same issue after testing, they said diagnostics found nothing wrong. They checked to see if this was related to the Feb 2023 recall and said it is not. Additionally, we have a loaner R1S and it has the exact same issue with the passenger seat not detecting a passenger is in the seat.
When the passenger seat is occupied, we intermittently get a message that the airbag is off (and the heating/ac controls for the passenger side go away). This occurred when the seat was occupied by two of my sons (one 6'1", 145 lbs and the other 5'9" and 155 lbs). We took the car in to get checked and while Rivian noticed the same issue after testing, they said diagnostics found nothing wrong. They checked to see if this was related to the Feb 2023 recall and said it is not. Additionally, we have a loaner R1S and it has the exact same issue with the passenger seat not detecting a passenger is in the seat.
Steering wheel was angled when the car was going straight Vehicle felt unstable going into turns and would pull toward the center line in the road Upon inspecting underneath the vehicle, the steering rack bolts were loose and the rack moving side to side making the steering inconsistent and loose.
Steering wheel was angled when the car was going straight Vehicle felt unstable going into turns and would pull toward the center line in the road Upon inspecting underneath the vehicle, the steering rack bolts were loose and the rack moving side to side making the steering inconsistent and loose.
Horn is extremely underpowered and not audible to other drivers at highway speeds in particular. This has not been inspected by Rivian because all R1S vehicles are like this since they removed the second horn that was originally shipped in earlier builds.
Horn is extremely underpowered and not audible to other drivers at highway speeds in particular. This has not been inspected by Rivian because all R1S vehicles are like this since they removed the second horn that was originally shipped in earlier builds.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? — ACCELERATOR PEDAL. YES, AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? — DUE TO ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEFECT, IT RESULTED IN ONE CASUALTY AND ONE INJURY. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? — YES, SERVICE RECALLS HAVE BEEN FOR THE SAME ISSUE WITH PRIOR MODELS. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? — CURRENTLY IN POLICE CUSTODY Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? — NO WARNING SIGNS.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? — ACCELERATOR PEDAL. YES, AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? — DUE TO ACCELERATOR PEDAL DEFECT, IT RESULTED IN ONE CASUALTY AND ONE INJURY. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? — YES, SERVICE RECALLS HAVE BEEN FOR THE SAME ISSUE WITH PRIOR MODELS. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? — CURRENTLY IN POLICE CUSTODY Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? — NO WARNING SIGNS.
I received a critical safety recall regarding side air bags from Rivian regarding my 2023 R1S on June 14. After multiple attempts by me to connect with their Customer Service, I was informed that a mobile service technician would come to fix the issue on August 26, 2024. This would be more than 60 days after Rivian's initial notification. Additionally, on July 6 2024, when I turned on the vehicle, I was notified of multiple system failures. I promptly created an incident ticket with Rivian on this but have to yet hear back from Rivian. Rivian's lax attitude on getting such critical issues fixed is of great concern. The vehicle is barely over a year old since I have owned it and I feel distrustful of this company and thoroughly disappointed by their nonchalant approach to getting these critical issues fixed.
I received a critical safety recall regarding side air bags from Rivian regarding my 2023 R1S on June 14. After multiple attempts by me to connect with their Customer Service, I was informed that a mobile service technician would come to fix the issue on August 26, 2024. This would be more than 60 days after Rivian's initial notification. Additionally, on July 6 2024, when I turned on the vehicle, I was notified of multiple system failures. I promptly created an incident ticket with Rivian on this but have to yet hear back from Rivian. Rivian's lax attitude on getting such critical issues fixed is of great concern. The vehicle is barely over a year old since I have owned it and I feel distrustful of this company and thoroughly disappointed by their nonchalant approach to getting these critical issues fixed.
The single horn on this vehicle is incredibly weak/not loud enough and has almost led to two separate incidents in my 3 months of ownership due to other drivers not being able to hear my horn.
The single horn on this vehicle is incredibly weak/not loud enough and has almost led to two separate incidents in my 3 months of ownership due to other drivers not being able to hear my horn.
The vehicle horn is not very loud and makes a low frequency noise that is not easily recognizable as a vehicle horn. The horn presents a safety risk to vehicle occupants, other vehicles and pedestrians.
The vehicle horn is not very loud and makes a low frequency noise that is not easily recognizable as a vehicle horn. The horn presents a safety risk to vehicle occupants, other vehicles and pedestrians.
Rivian released a software update that bricked my vehicle. It is drivable but the infotainment screen and safety features are inaccessible. It is unclear what features work and which ones do not. Rivian has only released limited information on Reddit, and there has been no other formal communication to impacted owners. Customer service said it was aware and that the team was working on a resolution, but this is a major red flag and should be investigated. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Rivian released a software update that bricked my vehicle. It is drivable but the infotainment screen and safety features are inaccessible. It is unclear what features work and which ones do not. Rivian has only released limited information on Reddit, and there has been no other formal communication to impacted owners. Customer service said it was aware and that the team was working on a resolution, but this is a major red flag and should be investigated. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Rivian pushed a software update to owners on the evening of 11/13/2023. This update made the driver information and infotainment screens non-functional and also disabled all driver saftey aids and any ability to turn exterior lights or windshield wipers off or on. As of 11:24 am CST on 11/14/2023, owners have still not been officially notified or provided any status updates aside from a reddit post by Rivian's VP of software development [XXX] ). Rivian has no estimated time to have a solution in place. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Rivian pushed a software update to owners on the evening of 11/13/2023. This update made the driver information and infotainment screens non-functional and also disabled all driver saftey aids and any ability to turn exterior lights or windshield wipers off or on. As of 11:24 am CST on 11/14/2023, owners have still not been officially notified or provided any status updates aside from a reddit post by Rivian's VP of software development [XXX] ). Rivian has no estimated time to have a solution in place. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
OTA update 2023.42 failed to install and left car without working screens, the only way to really manage the vehicle's settings. No formal communication until mid-afternoon next day, approximately 16+ hours after problem became known. Rivian stating vehicle can be driven without speedometer and working systems.
OTA update 2023.42 failed to install and left car without working screens, the only way to really manage the vehicle's settings. No formal communication until mid-afternoon next day, approximately 16+ hours after problem became known. Rivian stating vehicle can be driven without speedometer and working systems.
Horn on the car not loud enough. Other drivers on road can barely hear it. I can barely hear inside my own car.
Horn on the car not loud enough. Other drivers on road can barely hear it. I can barely hear inside my own car.
Showing top 50 of 61 complaints (sorted by severity, most recent first). Full records available via NHTSA ODI search.
What Owners Are Saying
"Why the 2026 Rivian R1S is a great family SUV — real-world car-seat experience Took the R1S out for a family run the other day and came away impressed. We have one child now and another on the way, and we drove three toddlers (plus adults) to the symphony with zero stress. Here’s what stood out from that trip. Car seats used - Graco SlimFit3™ LX 3-in-1 Car Seat What worked on the trip • Seating capacity and layout — We had two child seats installed and a third child seat behind the driver; the third row was easy to access and still comfortable for kids. • Room for adults — With the three toddlers and their seats in place, there was still space for another adult if needed. • Cargo and storage — The frunk is genuinely useful; I sometimes forget it’s there because the rear cargo area still has ample space even with the third row up. • Overall comfort — Long-ish drive to the symphony felt relaxed for both kids and adults; the interior layout makes loading and unloading straightforward. Practical takeaways for prospective buyers • Child-seat compatibility — The R1S handles multiple child seats well; you can fit two across and a third behind the driver without crowding the cabin"
"The answer is r1s, such an amazingly fun camping and offroading car. I built out a bed platform for the back of mine and sleep in it for camping and at ski areas in the winter."
"what to do for Longest range EV in Colorado Hi Guys! Looking for our next car, we need more room and the longest range EV we can find. We're in Colorado, we like to road trip a lot. Our Model Y Performance although has been very reliable, the range limitation is really starting to become a chore. We are deciding between Rivian R1S Dual Max pack (410 miles) and Lucid Gravity Grand touring (450 miles). It's going to be for lots of ski trips, hopefully not having to charge as often, some off-roading to get to places with views!! In your guy's experience what are you seeing with range in the winter time, in our MYP range pretty much drops to 180-200 real world miles or lower. Goals are to travel in comfort, charge less often, better winter range. Thanks!!"
"Rivian beat out Land Rover for lowest reliability in Consumer Reports survey, and they do it consistently. Pretty amazing work."
"New Rivian R1S Owner TLDR: Rivian fix your Premium audio, its awful!! those that currently have, or have owned higher-end vehicles expect more from the sound system. Fix the rattles and cheap feeling trim and panel parts. Hey everyone, I’m a new R1S owner and wanted to share some early thoughts and experiences so far. My hope is that Rivian continues iterating in the right direction over time. I’m sure some of these points have already been mentioned by others, but I figured I’d add my perspective. Vehicle Specs * Model: 2026 Rivian R1S Dual Motor * Battery: Large Battery * Performance Upgrade: Yes * Exterior: El Cap Granite (absolutely love this color) * Interior: Ocean Coast + Dark Ash * Package: Darkout Package * Wheels: 22" Sport Rims * Options: Sound + Vision Package with Premium Audio * MSRP: $96K-ish What’s Great Design and Interior The R1S is a beautiful vehicle. I really like the boxy design and the interior is truly impressive. Small design details stand out in a good way: * Yellow accents throughout the vehicle * Real wood trim * Bronze/silver speaker grills These touches make the interior feel premium and well thought out. I also really like the two"
"Progressive offering $2k diminished value on repaired Rivian R1S - fair or low? Hey all - looking for a sanity check from other Rivian owners (especially anyone who’s dealt with DV after an accident). Vehicle: • 2025 Rivian R1S Dual Motor AWD (purchased Dec 2024) • Color: El Cap Granite • Interior: Black Mountain + Dark Ash Wood • Options: 22” Range wheels, Premium Audio, Dynamic Glass Roof • No prior accidents • Mileage: \~6,700 at time of accident, \~9,300 now • Location: Washington, DC Accident/repairs: • Not at fault (other driver insured by Progressive) • Date of loss: July 4, 2025 • No airbags deployed • Repairs totaled about $41,875 (Rosslyn Auto Body) • Major work included replacement/repair in the left rear quarter area (weld/structural procedures) + rear suspension components (control arms/knuckle/hub/strut/air suspension-related work), plus rear body parts (tailgate/bumper area). Basically a big hit with substantial body + suspension work, not just cosmetic. Diminished Value: Progressive just offered $2,000 DV. Their adjuster said they look at: • severity/structural (frame) damage • repair cost • and CARFAX pricing differences between c"
"Hot take as a highly satisfied Rivian owner with 3 kids. But the car seat experience is one of the only downsides for this car. If you’re planning to have other people ride with you ever, it requires putting two car seats in the third row, which means you need to have at least one kid capable of buckling themselves to not have it be a whole thing. For the third car seat, it will probably be rear facing (just based on the likely age distribution if you have 3 kids). You have to put it on the second row either behind the passenger or behind the driver. If it’s behind the driver, it means you can’t put the driver seat as far back. If it’s behind the passenger, that mean that you have to mess with the larger “60” section going back and forth of the 60-40 second row split. That gives you more loading and unloading space, but it’s heavier / bulkier to fuss with. My wife is the one that drives the car the most so we put it behind the passenger space. She’s shorter so the driver seat doesn’t need to be as far back and she prefers to not have to fuss with the second row bulk. If it was just me driving all the time, I’d do it the other way. Regardless though, it’s not great and a capta"
Showing 7 of 11 owner excerpts (sorted by sentiment strength)