Rivian has initiated a voluntary recall of its 2022 R1S and R1T vehicles due to potentially faulty passenger seat belt system components. The recall affects 12,716 vehicles, although Rivian believes fewer than 1% of those vehicles, or fewer than 100, will require part replacement.
Rivian has stated that the affected vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 208 “Occupant Crash Protection.” The automaker has not provided details on the exact issue that could impact the recalled vehicles, but it has stated that it involves the passenger seat belt system components.
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Owners of the affected vehicles are being asked to visit Rivian Service Centers and pop-up locations up to six days a week, Monday through Saturday, with no appointment necessary. During the visit, their vehicles will be inspected, and the passenger seat belt system components will be replaced if necessary. Rivian estimates that inspections will take less than 10 minutes, while part replacements will take less than 30 minutes during the same visit.
Rivian has emphasized its commitment to safety, stating that it will always exercise caution when it comes to safety, even if the number of affected vehicles is very limited. The automaker has also noted that as of February 27, 2023, it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue.
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It is worth noting that this is not the first time Rivian has issued a recall for a similar issue. In September 2022, the company recalled 207 R1T and R1S EVs due to a seat belt adjuster bolt issue that could prevent the belts from restraining occupants in the event of an accident.
Rivian owners affected by the recall are required to install the latest software update to their vehicles before their visit. The service will be available at no cost to customers. Rivian has assured its customers that if they do not bring their vehicles in for inspection, they will be inspected for this issue at a future service appointment.
