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

Getting into Your Rivian

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

• First, if you are already inside, click here for help getting started!
• Second, if you need or want another manufacturer, click here.

R1S and R1T through 2024

Unlock a Rivian with a dead key fob! Unlike some in the industry, Rivian does supply a key fob. However, the fob does not include a mechanical key. Instead, 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 at the rear portion of the driver’s door (above right). Both the R1S and R1T models can be accessed in this way.

2025 and later

However, in 2025, a smart phone app and key card are still available but the the key band is gone. Further, the key fob is shown being used to touch the sensor at the back of the driver’s door (right)! The key card can be used here as well and in the same way.

We have yet to test this, but we suspect that this move will work on older models as well! It certainly is worth a try if you find yourself with a key fob that has stopped working properly, likely due to a dead battery inside the fob.

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

Continue to Part II, Getting Started …

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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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