Follow us now…
Being a part of a cutting-edge electric SUV can often lead to issues like flying stones and old-fashioned issues. Real fragments of particles launched off the road at 70 mph without any regard for your$ 90,000 adventure vehicle are not symbolic difficulties, but rather factual fragments of debris. And when those stones hit precisely the right location, the outcome is more than just plastic; it can take weeks, even weeks, to completely resolve.
That’s exactly what happened to user of the Rivian R1S Tri-Motor Ashish Arora, who recently in the Facebook group for” RIVIAN Electric Vehicles Discussion Group.” What started as a small chip in the light bar quickly turned into a series of issues, including disruptions at the service center, device measurement confusion, damaged car, insurance disputes, and delays. You’ll be aware that this isn’t a one-off if you’ve been following Rivian rights reports nowadays.
From a Small Device to a Complete Closure
In Ashish’s terms, this is what transpired:” Series of concerns continues. First, a stone chip on the highway caused a broken light bar, which was luckily fixed in a day at the service center after the car lost control of driving because water slammed into the light bar and caused the circuit to short. A large boulder then struck the glass and shattered it. No substitute car is provided at the center 180 yards away, so the earliest session is in 4 days. The other option is to use a certified body shop that calibrates the sensors ( insurance wants SafeLite, but they can’t, and that will require the help of a Rivian service center ). Do not want to miss two appointments ( appointments at Rivian are far out or not at a time I can make it soon )? We have a glass-related store that is authorized by Rivian and specializes in international luxury cars. Has someone performed it in a reputable store? How have you found the experience? 2025 R1S Tri. Thank you very much.
The unique front fascia that makes the R1S immediately identifiable began with what appeared to be a slight hit to the Guided light bar. However, once water entered, a little caused the vehicle to completely shut down. Fortunately, Rivian was able to resolve that within a day, which is a positive sign that not all support experiences involve lengthy waits.
Another stone struck, this moment cracking the windshield, just before Ashish may return to normalcy. The actual issues started that way.
Why Isn’t a Windshield Anymore Only a Windshield?
You’d think it would be easy to replace a car. However, it’s anything but on a car like the R1S, which heavily relies on cameras and ADAS features for safety and driver aid. Making sure all the technology behind the crystal works afterwards is not just about swapping out the cup; it’s also about doing so.
Ashish’s healthcare provider recommended using SafeLite, a standard car cleaner. However, SafeLite usually cannot handle Rivians ‘ sensor recalibration after replacing their windshields. In order to finish the job, Ashish would probably have a second session, this period with Rivian.
Ashish is leaning toward a qualified body shop that can perform both the car alternative and validation in one visit rather than endure that headaches. Just by weighing that choice, it is important to be aware of your options when dealing with specific repairs on an Vehicle like this.
Another Users Weigh In And Prefer Prudence
Feedback from other Rivian users quickly appeared in Ashish’s post’s comment section. Some expressed his concerns, while another offered choices based on their own prior issues.
Ryan, a poster, didn’t back down; he stated that he would advise avoiding them based on his own prior experience with Safelite on other vehicles.
We had our glass replaced at a Rivian authorized store, Jennifer chimed in with a more comforting word. It is an original car. We are pleased with both the finished goods and the job. How badly cracked the windshields are is ridiculous.
The R1S’s cup strength has previously raised questions. The topic often appears in owner forums, from spontaneous stress cracks to minor damage caused by small pebbles. Although Rivian’s smooth, spray design may appear appealing, it also leaves the front end more vulnerable to rock-strikes than more conventional vehicles.
Service Issues That Are Overly Reported
Although unpleasant, Ashish’s situation isn’t unique. We’ve seen a number of users over the past year experience amazingly long waits for support, especially when the nearest Rivian facility is hundreds of miles away. One 2025 R1S owner recently shared that their car lost all ability to function after the house was preconditioned, and another found themselves stuck after a suspension issue only nine days after purchasing the car.
Additionally, there are the growing pains of having to use a company while residing in a location that is not yet fully supported by Rivian’s expanding system. They’ll need to make sure their equipment keeps up with the difficulty of their vehicles as the company moves toward higher sales and a wider reach.
We recently covered a Rivian operator who had to wait for charging-related service for more than a month. These are indicators, not isolated cases.
Loaners are a Notation, Not a Comfort.
Even though Ashish’s scenario may seem trivial, the lack of a loaner vehicle in your case is significant given how far away a service center is from home. Driving 180 miles to pick up your car and then being left without a route home adds a lot to the equity process, especially if your vehicle is designed to allow adventures and not destroy your schedule.
Standard luxury businesses almost always have a loaner available. Rivian will need to address these customer experience cracks while it is still in its early stages. especially when their vehicles are currently experiencing great service demand and early problems.
When Everything Comes Together, It Also Makes Sense.
Despite the issues, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the majority of Rivian entrepreneurs aren’t jumping fleet. Many people are informed of the trade-offs and still choose to support the product. And with good cause.
There are reports that paint a different picture, ones in which the R1S demonstrates its fair in everyday circumstances. Like the landlord, who traveled a 5, 000-lb truck for a long RV trip and also felt secure despite the limited range. Or the family who praised the off-road tech of their R1T and drove it deep into white backroads.
In another article we covered, a group of off-roaders drove a whole fleet of Rivians through difficult terrain, demonstrating that they are capable machines and that they are more than simply technical showpieces.
From the Perspective of a Fresh Automotive Journalist
Ashish’s reports serve as reminders of the harmony that comes with researching new manufacturers. Rivian has accomplished what many other illustrious brands haven’t on one hand, which is why you want to enjoy innovation. On the other hand, you can’t overlook the symptoms that are developing.
As a case study of how modern design and actual-world discomfort collide, I consider Ashish’s situation as a customer complaint. A damaged windshield or chipped light bar doesn’t turn into a multi-day ordeal. However, it frequently does because everything is interconnected, including technology, sensors, and ADAS systems.
Rivian is not failing, though. They are learning, that is. And the more users voice their opinions, the more insights are incorporated into upcoming decisions.
What Do Future Owners Have to Know?
The lesson is this: until it isn’t, owning a Rivian is amazing. It’s a vehicle that allows you to travel through the forest, drag equipment, tow your tent, and look good while doing it. However, it also implies that you need to be vigilant and informed when something goes bad.
Pick a store that offers device validation. When the company is low, ask for a loaner. Maintain a connection to the society for sound advice. And most important, be aware that you are directing something that is also evolving, both physically and technologically.
Show Us Your History
Have you ever had to change your car with Rivian? What store did you employ, and how easily did it proceed?
What was the longest you’ve ever had to go for company, and were you given a loner or left to figure it out?
Tell us in the comments. Your knowledge may produce the following owner’s decision more wisely.
, a golf cart factory employee, has an interest in the automotive industry and is a fresh electrical journalist. Observe for regular car news updates.
Ashish’s Facebook article and Rivian Press Room andamp;
Follow us now…