Last updated: 2026-10-10
2023 Rivian R1T Reliability Report
The 2023 Rivian R1t rates good for reliability, but owners report the passenger airbag switching off with adults in the seat.
Recalls
7
Complaints
35
Complaint Rate
18per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
EV Range
289–352 mi
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Middle of the three scored years, with the passenger airbag shutting off for lighter adults as the leading complaint and seven federal recalls on file.
Top Issues to Watch
- AIR BAGS (14)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
- POWER TRAIN (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is year 2 of the First generation (R1T).
- Redesigned for the 2022 model year.
- 1st generation R1T (US).
What this means for buyers
Year 2 is typically a safer pick than the first model year — early issues are more likely to be identified, but the platform is still new.
If you're comparing prices, check 2022 (redesign year) vs 2023+ pricing and recalls.
2022: First generation (R1T) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is year 2 of the First generation (R1T).
Should You Buy the 2023 Rivian R1T?
Reliability for this model year is good, and it lands close to the average for 2023 trucks. Among the three scored R1t years, it sits in the middle. The 2024 rates about the same, so neither year has a clear edge.
The biggest complaint is the passenger airbag. Owners say it turns itself off with an adult in the front seat and the "Passenger Airbag Off" light comes on, mostly for riders between about 110 and 150 pounds. Service centers usually call it within spec, so owners leave without a fix. Electrical reports are fewer but serious. They include a fire that destroyed one truck and sudden slowing on the highway the day after a software update. A few owners found front half shafts coming loose. Federal recall records list 7 recalls, touching air bags, seat belts, suspension, and exterior lighting, among other areas.
Ask the seller for proof that every recall was completed. Test the airbag light with a lighter adult in the front seat, and have a shop check the front half shaft bolts.
Compared to the 2024 Rivian R1T, which scored 2 points higher.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Not a first-year model
- +Only 35 complaints reported
Cons
- −Above-average recall count
- −Above-average complaint rate for Truck
- −AIR BAGS: Passenger airbag turns itself off with an adult in the front seat, and the... (14 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2023 Rivian R1T With
2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Reliability: 45/100
2023 GMC Sierra 1500
Reliability: 69/100
2023 Chevrolet Silverado
Reliability: 75/100
2023 Ram 1500
Reliability: 72/100
2023 Ram ProMaster
Reliability: 63/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 7 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- AIR BAGS (14)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4)
Recall Overview
7
recalls on record
The 2023 Rivian R1T has 7 recalls on record, which is above average. A high count can flag multiple component concerns, though it also shows the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
18
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 10.7
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
1
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Rivian R1T Recall Details
7 recalls have been issued for the 2023 Rivian R1T. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
VISIBILITY, EQUIPMENT
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2023 R1T and R1S vehicles. A software update may have deactivated the defroster and defogger system controls.
Consequence
The inability to operate the windshield defrosting and defogging system can decrease the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Rivian has released an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 21, 2023. Owners may contact Rivian customer service at 1-888-748-4261. Rivian's number for this recall is FSAM-1331.
SEAT BELTS
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2025 R1T and 2022-2026 R1S vehicles. The bolts that secure the second-row driver and passenger side seat belt retractor assemblies may be improperly tightened.
Consequence
An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not adequately restrain the seat occupant, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy
Rivian will inspect and tighten the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 2, 2026. Owners may contact Rivian customer service at 1-888-748-4261. Rivian's number for this recall is FSAM-1795.
SUSPENSION
Rivian Automotive, LLC (Rivian) is recalling certain 2022-2025 R1S and R1T vehicles that previously had service performed. The toe link may have been reassembled incorrectly during service procedures performed before March 10, 2025.
Consequence
The toe link joint may separate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Rivian will replace the rear toe link bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 17, 2026. Owners may contact Rivian customer service at 1-888-748-4261. Rivian's number for this recall is FSAM-1794. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning February 24, 2026.
Buying a used 2023 Rivian R1T? Check its history first
Air bags problems lead owner complaints about the 2023 Rivian R1T, and 7 recalls were issued for it. A VIN check shows whether this car's recall work was done, plus accident, title, and odometer history.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Rivian R1T NHTSA Safety Ratings
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
Rivian R1TRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
2023 Rivian R1T Example Repair Prices
National average price ranges for common repairs. These are not model-year-specific failure predictions.
| Repair | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| AC Compressor Replacement | $1,004 – $1,356 |
| AC Compressor Clutch Replacement | $666 – $797 |
| AC Condenser Replacement | $803 – $935 |
| Air Conditioning Condenser Fan Motor Replacement | $360 – $548 |
| AC Evaporator Replacement | $1,292 – $1,819 |
Estimates based on national average repair costs. Actual costs may vary by location and shop.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Electric
289–352 mi range
Fuel cost: $950–$1,200/yr
Fuel only
43.226–52.377 kWh/100mi · 13 hrs @ 240V
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Electric trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | Range | kWh/100mi | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| R1T 21 inch Dual Large | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 352 mi | 43.2 | $950 |
| R1T 21 inch Performance Dual Large | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 352 mi | 43.2 | $950 |
| R1T 22 inch Dual Large | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 341 mi | 44.5 | $1,000 |
| R1T 22 inch Performance Dual Large | Part-time 4-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 341 mi | 44.5 | $1,000 |
| R1T (21 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 328 mi | 46.1 | $1,050 |
| R1T (22 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 303 mi | 49.4 | $1,100 |
| R1T (20 inch wheels) | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (A1) | 289 mi | 52.4 | $1,200 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Rivian R1T.
Seat your lightest regular passenger up front, have them shift position while driving, and watch the Passenger Airbag Off light.
Have a shop check both front half shafts and CV axle bolts for looseness or signs of repeat repairs.
Check the headliner, sun visor hinges, overhead console, and carpet for water stains or dampness.
Set the parking brake on a slope and confirm the truck does not creep.
Drive at highway speed with adaptive cruise and Highway Assist on, and watch for dropouts or braking on its own.
Ask for service records mentioning battery warnings, limited performance mode, turtle mode, or half shaft repairs.
Move the shift handle through every position and confirm it feels solid and secure.
2023 Rivian R1T Common Problems by Component
35 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
AIR BAGS
14 complaintsThe passenger airbag turns itself off with an adult in the front seat, and the "Passenger Airbag Off" light comes on. Most reports involve riders between about 110 and 150 pounds. The light can flip on and off mid-drive when the passenger leans forward, crosses their legs, or reclines. Service centers usually check the system and call it within spec or working as designed, so owners leave without a fix. The risk is an airbag that may not deploy in a crash for lighter adults and teens.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaintsWhen rain pools on the roof, water leaks in through the sun visor hinges and the overhead console that holds the hazard and SOS buttons, and the carpet gets wet. Repeat service visits for the leak are reported. Other single reports include a shift handle that snapped off at 13k miles, a horn too weak for other drivers to hear, and a rear door that would not unlock from the touchscreen until the driver dismissed a screen left by a software update.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
4 complaintsSafety-relatedFaults range from sudden warnings to total loss of the truck. One report describes a fire that destroyed the vehicle, blamed on an electrical or battery defect. Others describe a "Critical Battery Issue" warning with nonstop beeping on a brand-new truck, and braking on its own at highway speed with cruise control set and no traffic nearby. In another case, warnings switch off the front sensors, front camera, collision detection, and regenerative braking, and the truck then loses speed quickly. That happened the day after a software update. Sudden slowing on the highway raises the risk of a rear-end crash.
POWER TRAIN (3 complaints)
POWER TRAIN
3 complaintsFront half shafts come loose. One shop found a front CV axle bolt almost backed out, with no warning signs beforehand. Another truck had a front half shaft come detached after earlier repairs, with rattling from the front. Sudden power loss is the other pattern. The truck drops into limited performance or turtle mode, and in one case it stopped completely in moving traffic. Regenerative braking can also cut out at highway speed, and drivers have to switch to the friction brakes without warning. A loose half shaft can mean loss of steering control.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (2 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
2 complaintsDriver assistance shuts off without warning. A "Driver Assistance Features Unavailable, Service Soon" message disables adaptive cruise and Highway Assist at highway speed, even in clear weather. In one case this started around 1,200 miles and went on for over a year despite repeat repairs. Another report blames software update 2023.42.0 for a dead center screen, no defrost or climate control, and every safety feature disabled except blind spot warnings. When the system drops out at speed, the driver has to take over suddenly.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (2 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaintsSafety-relatedHigh regeneration mode can make the truck hard to control on slick roads. One crash report describes the truck hydroplaning: the driver lifts off the accelerator and the front tires lose more grip and skid. The owner says traction control, stability control, and anti-lock braking did not catch it. A separate report describes the high-voltage battery failing twice at highway speed, both times putting the truck into turtle mode. Both describe loss of control or power at speed.
SERVICE BRAKES (2 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaintsSafety-relatedBoth reports involve crashes. In one, the parking brake does not hold the truck on a snowy, sloped driveway. The truck rolls and hits a house, and the tire tracks suggest only two wheels were locked. In the other, lane correction pushes the truck into the next lane and it accelerates. The driver avoids a head-on collision but hits a fence. In both cases the driver had no chance to prevent the loss of control.
LANE DEPARTURE (1 complaints)
LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaintWhen driving on the highway with ADAS on with lane keeping assist turned on with software 2024.39.01, the truck would constantly pull me back into the center line even if I were not close to the white line on the road. This is very concerning as on a two-lane highway, it pulled me over the center line and towards an oncoming traffic. The latest software update seemed to make it more sensitive, not allowing "ping-ponging" and trying to keep the truck almost too centered, as other cars I have are not this aggressive. I ended up turning off LKA, but that should not be the solution.
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintMy driver side door intermittently does not close. There is something wrong with the latch. I called service center over 3 times and still haven’t been given any immediate appointment as the issue of safety is paramount, as I can’t drive with an open door. I still haven’t had this issue resolved.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintThere is no defrost mechanism for the headlights. Because they are LED lamps and cool to the tuch, they are prone to snow buildup and greatly reduced visibility.
Best & Worst Rivian R1T Years
Best Rivian R1T Years to Buy
Based on reliability index score2024
2023
(Current Model)
Rivian R1T Years to Avoid
No Rivian R1T years are statistical outliers in our data.
Scores stay between 65 and 67 across 3 scored model years.
Rivian R1T Reliability Score Trend
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 65/100 | Good |
Rivian R1T Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Rivian R1t reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Rivian R1t?
Does the 2023 Rivian R1t have passenger airbag problems?
How many recalls does the 2023 Rivian R1t have?
Is the 2023 Rivian R1t more reliable than the 2024?
Don’t buy a 2023 Rivian R1T without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
How we score the 2023 Rivian R1T
Of the four inputs behind this score, the 2023 Rivian R1T does best on how many systems draw complaints (83/100) and worst on repair costs (60/100). Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.
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