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 resol…
2023 Rivian R1S electrical problems
severe 12 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850
Complaints
12
Recalls
0
Crashes
2
Avg fix
$850
What owners are reporting 5 most recent
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.
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 pos…
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.
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 stoppe…
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2023 Rivian R1S?
It's a meaningful issue. 12 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Mileage data is limited for this issue. Owners report failures across a wide range, suggesting cause is more about driving conditions and maintenance than mileage alone.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Other problem areas on this vehicle
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities.
Repair cost estimates are independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area.
Some links on this page are affiliate links.