2023 Rivian RCV-700

The 2023 Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck that has garnered considerable attention for its blend of performance, off-road capability, and innovative features. The R1T features a quad-motor system, providing all-wheel drive and impressive power output. The Launch Edition boasts 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque. The R1T is praised for its quick acceleration, comfortable ride, and spacious cabin. Criticisms often focus on the vehicle’s price, software glitches, and some reported quality control issues.

Electric Motor

Quad-Motor System

• Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete motor failure in one or more of the quad-motor system. This can result in reduced power, inability to drive, and error messages displayed on the vehicle’s screen.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Reduced Power Output
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported a reduction in power output from one or more motors, even without complete failure. This can manifest as diminished acceleration or difficulty maintaining speed, especially when towing or climbing hills.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to find the source of the issue and replacement of damaged or faulty parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• 12V Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The 12V battery, which powers auxiliary systems, can drain prematurely, leading to issues starting the vehicle or operating accessories.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacing the 12V battery with an upgraded version, or addressing parasitic drain issues through electrical system diagnostics.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Software Glitches/Connectivity Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent software glitches affecting various functions, including the infotainment system, driver-assistance features (like lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control), and over-the-air (OTA) updates. Connectivity problems with the Rivian mobile app are also common.
  • Solution: Software updates released by Rivian to address identified bugs and improve system stability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A (covered by warranty or OTA updates)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Charging Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or slow charging speeds at public charging stations or with home chargers.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the charging system, potentially replacing the onboard charger or checking the charging equipment, software updates.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panel Alignment Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent panel gaps and misaligned body panels reported by some owners.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found
• Powered Tonneau Cover Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The powered tonneau cover, designed to cover the truck bed, is prone to jamming, failing to open/close properly, or getting stuck mid-operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the tonneau cover mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Screen Freezing/Unresponsive Touchscreen
  • Description/Symptoms: The central touchscreen display freezing or becoming unresponsive, requiring a system reboot.
  • Solution: Software updates or, in severe cases, replacement of the screen.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A (covered by warranty)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Speaker Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Speakers cutting out, distorting sound, or failing completely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty speaker.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+ per speaker
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Issues with the air suspension system, including failure to adjust ride height, uneven leveling, or complete system failure.
  • Solution: Replacing the air compressor, air struts, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2023 Rivian R1T, while praised for its innovative design and performance, has experienced several reported issues. The electrical gremlins are more frequent than component failures. The electrical and software issues seem to be the most prevalent and are often addressed through software updates. The air suspension problems and tonneau cover issues can be costly to repair if not covered under warranty. Buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider purchasing an extended warranty for longer-term protection.