Rivian Launches R1T & R1S Service Campaign for Refrigerant System Contamination: What Owners Need to Know
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Rivian has issued a new customer satisfaction campaign that impacts some 2025 R1T and R1S vehicles, and it’s one worth understanding—even if your truck or SUV seems to be operating normally.
The issue centers around potential water contamination in the refrigerant system, which plays a key role in your vehicle’s thermal management system.
What’s the Issue?
According to Rivian, certain 2025 R1T and R1S vehicles built between approximately May 2024 and May 2025 may be susceptible to water entering the refrigerant system.
That might not sound like a big deal at first, but in an EV, the refrigerant system is responsible for more than just cabin cooling. It also helps regulate battery and power electronics temperatures.
If water contamination occurs, it can lead to:
- Premature failure of refrigerant system components
- Corrosion inside key system components
- Loss of high-voltage (HV) isolation
- The vehicle entering Limited Performance Mode
In some cases, drivers may see a warning indicator on the display and experience reduced performance as the vehicle protects itself.
What Rivian Is Doing About It
This is being handled as a customer satisfaction campaign, not a recall, but Rivian is proactively addressing the issue to ensure long-term reliability.
Service centers will:
- Inspect the refrigerant system for signs of water contamination
- Check for corrosion inside key components
- Replace affected parts if contamination is found
Depending on what technicians find, repairs could range from a simple inspection to replacing major components like:
- A/C compressor
- Chiller/accumulator assembly
- Refrigerant sensors
- (R1S only) Rear HVAC components like the evaporator and expansion valve
How Technicians Identify the Problem
The inspection process is actually pretty detailed. Technicians will:
- Check the refrigerant system oil for water droplets
- Look for corrosion using inspection tools like a borescope
- Differentiate between normal air bubbles and actual water contamination
One key detail: water droplets settle at the bottom of the oil, while harmless bubbles float on top. That’s one of the main ways contamination is identified during service.
Why This Matters for EV Owners
In traditional gas vehicles, the A/C system is mostly about comfort. In Rivian’s EV platform, it’s part of a much bigger system that manages:
- Battery temperature
- Charging performance
- Drive unit cooling
That’s why something like moisture contamination can have wider impacts than you might expect—including triggering protective system behavior like reduced performance (limp home) mode.
Should You Be Concerned?
If you own a 2025 R1T or R1S, the best move is simple:
- Check with Rivian to see if your vehicle is included
- Schedule service if applicable
Rivian notes that applicability can be confirmed through their internal service system, so not every vehicle in that model year range will necessarily be affected.
EV Outdoors Take
This is a good example of how modern EVs rely heavily on integrated thermal systems—and how manufacturers are taking a proactive approach when potential issues are identified.
The key takeaway for R1T and R1S owners is that this is preventative and quality-focused, not something to panic about. But it’s definitely worth addressing early if your vehicle is included.
As always, staying ahead of these service campaigns helps ensure your Rivian continues to perform the way it was designed to—on-road, off-road, and everywhere in between.
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