How to Start a Rivian with a Dead Key Fob or Mobile Phone

Starting Your Rivian

This page holds all of the emergency start or back-up start procedures needed for Rivian vehicles if the battery in the key fob dies or if there are electrical signals interfering with the fob.

R1S and R1T through 2024

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Rivian does supply a key fob with its vehicles, unlike some other pure EV players. In addition, the company supplies a smart phone app, a key card and, in some cases, a key band.

Cell phones are in a constant need of a charge, so we highly recommend carrying a key card at all times! It or the key band can be touched to a sensor on the inside of the driver’s door (right). The spot isn’t marker, so you’ll want to hold the card or band against the trim for several seconds and you may need to move it around a bit. Both the R1S and R1T models can be activated in this way.

Further, this action will need to be taken if the vehicle is not started within 60 seconds of entering it, even with a working key fob!

2025 and later

In the 2025 model, a spot is supplied at the front left of the center console. The spot is actually a cell phone charge tray. Drop the fob on the spot with the buttons up (right). The key card can also be used here.

Once again, this action will be necessary if the vehicle is not started within 60 seconds of entering it, even with a working key fob.

Finally, the fact that the fob works in this way in 2025 and later models, we encourage drivers to try the fob on the door panels in older models. You have nothing to lose but a few seconds.

Models examined include the R1S and R1T. Model years 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025.

… Return to Part I, Getting In

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The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.

Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.

Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.

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