2024 Rivian R1T

The 2024 Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck praised for its impressive performance, off-road capabilities, and unique design. It boasts a quad-motor all-wheel drive system producing over 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque, delivering exhilarating acceleration. Owners often rave about the truck’s spacious and well-appointed interior, its innovative storage solutions like the gear tunnel, and its advanced technology features. However, some common complaints include relatively high price point, concerns about long-term reliability, and potential service delays due to the company’s growing pains.

Electric Motor

Quad-Motor AWD

• Drive Unit Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported complete failure of one or more drive units (electric motors), resulting in loss of power to that wheel and rendering the vehicle undriveable. Symptoms may include a sudden loss of power, error messages on the display screen, and unusual noises coming from the affected wheel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty drive unit is typically required. Rivian service centers handle the repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty costs are extremely high due to the cost of the drive units.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Inconsistent Power Delivery
  • Description/Symptoms: Uneven or jerky power delivery, particularly during acceleration or regenerative braking, has been reported by some owners. This can manifest as a surging sensation or a lack of smoothness in the vehicle’s response.
  • Solution: Software updates are often the first step to address this issue, as it may be related to the motor control algorithms. In some cases, hardware issues within the drive unit may require replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are typically free. Hardware repairs would be covered under warranty, otherwise, costs would be high.
  • Recalls: None Found

Battery

• Battery Management System (BMS) Errors
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages related to the Battery Management System (BMS) appearing on the vehicle’s display screen. These errors can range from minor warnings to more severe alerts indicating potential battery issues. Symptoms may include reduced range, slower charging speeds, or even the vehicle refusing to charge.
  • Solution: Diagnosing the root cause of BMS errors can be complex and may require specialized equipment. Rivian service centers are best equipped to handle these issues. Solutions may include software updates, recalibration of the BMS, or in rare cases, replacement of battery modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the issue, but most repairs are covered under the battery warranty. Out of warranty repairs can be very expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Reduced Range/Efficiency
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing lower-than-expected range or energy efficiency, particularly in cold weather or when towing.
  • Solution: Software updates and optimizing driving habits may help. If a battery module is defective, it may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Free for software updates, replacement of battery module is covered under warranty. Out of warranty repair can be very expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The R1T’s air suspension system can experience leaks, leading to a loss of ride height and reduced ride quality. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting unevenly, a hissing sound coming from the suspension, or error messages on the display screen.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air spring or other components of the air suspension system is typically required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty $1,000+, depending on the component that needs to be replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Compressor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor may fail, preventing the system from maintaining the correct ride height.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty repair cost is around $500 - $1,000.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Software Glitches/Bugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported various software glitches, including infotainment system freezes, display issues, connectivity problems (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), and malfunctioning driver-assistance features.
  • Solution: Software updates are the primary means of addressing these issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are typically free.
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature failure or draining of the 12V auxiliary battery, which powers the vehicle’s accessories and electronics, has been reported. This can lead to starting problems or malfunctions in various systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the 12V battery. Addressing potential parasitic draws that may be draining the battery is also necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Battery replacement around $200 - $300.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Display Screen Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, flickering, or complete failure of the central display screen.
  • Solution: Software updates or screen replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are typically free. Display screen replacements are very expensive.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Powered Tonneau Cover Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The powered tonneau cover can experience malfunctions, such as getting stuck, failing to open or close properly, or exhibiting erratic movement.
  • Solution: Realignment, repair, or replacement of the tonneau cover components, including the motor, rails, and sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty costs range from $500 - $2,000+, depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Misaligned Panels/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports of inconsistent panel gaps or misaligned trim pieces on the exterior of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the affected panels or trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty costs depend on the body shop cost.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Speaker Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Distorted or blown speakers in the audio system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty speaker(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Covered under warranty. Out of warranty cost depends on the speakers, but a general range of $100 - $500+ per speaker.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rattles/Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Various rattles and noises emanating from the interior, particularly from the dashboard, doors, or seats.
  • Solution: Identifying and addressing the source of the rattles, which may involve tightening fasteners, adding insulation, or replacing worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the source and complexity of the rattle. Can range from a simple fix to a more involved repair.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2024 Rivian R1T, while lauded for its performance and innovation, does have some common issues reported by owners. The most significant concerns revolve around the electric drive units, battery management system, air suspension, and software glitches. While many of these issues are covered under warranty, potential out-of-pocket expenses for repairs can be high, especially for complex components like the drive units or battery pack. The software glitches are often addressed by OTA updates, but can be frustrating. It is recommended for potential buyers to research the warranty and maintenance options, and to be aware of the reported issues when considering a used vehicle.