Rivian is recalling 12,212 electric vehicles (EVs) due to a loose fastener that may interfere with drivers’ ability to operate the vehicle (via CNBC). The recall affects virtually every vehicle Rivian has built this year and covers the full range, including some 2022 R1T pickup trucks, R1S SUVs, and the electric delivery vans (EDVs) it is developing for Amazon. Rivian built 14,317 automobiles and delivered over 12,000 in the first three quarters of 2022.
The fastener connecting the front upper control arm and steering knuckle may not have been “sufficiently torqued,” according to a notification issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This might result in separation, resulting in “a loss of vehicle control and an increase in the danger of an accident.” According to the safety assessment, drivers in impacted cars may experience excessive noise, vibration, and harshness from the front suspension, as well as a change in steering performance or feel.
Rivian issued the recall after conducting an investigation into seven allegations of the fault, none of which caused any injuries. The EV manufacturer claims that it would replace the steering knuckle fasteners in cars impacted by the recall at no additional cost. Rivian has already recalled roughly 500 R1T electric pickups this year owing to a malfunctioning airbag system that may fail to deactivate when detecting a youngster in the front passenger seat.
