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2025 R1S Door Handles Not Presenting or Retracting Properly

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 5:12 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2025 Rivian R1S Adventure

Hello fellow Rivian owners,

I just got my 2025 Rivian R1S Adventure a few months ago, and I'm already running into issues with the flush door handles. Sometimes, when I approach the vehicle or try to open a door, the handle simply won't present itself. I have to try multiple times, or use the app, which is really inconvenient. Other times, after I close the door, the handle stays out and doesn't retract fully, which looks odd and I worry about it getting damaged.

It seems to happen intermittently on different doors, not just one specific one. Is this a common glitch with the flush handles on Rivians? I've checked for obstructions, but there's nothing obvious. Could it be a sensor issue, or perhaps a software bug? I'm hoping it's not a major hardware problem on such a new vehicle.

Any experiences or advice on this would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 5:12 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Flush-mounted door handles, while aesthetically pleasing and aerodynamic, can sometimes present unique challenges. Intermittent presentation and retraction issues on a new vehicle like your 2025 R1S are certainly frustrating. Here's what typically causes these problems and what steps you can take:

  1. Common Causes:

    • Software Glitches: Many modern vehicle features, including door handle operation, are heavily software-controlled. A temporary bug or communication error in the vehicle's operating system can cause intermittent failures.
    • Motor/Actuator Issues: Each handle has a small electric motor or actuator responsible for extending and retracting it. These can fail due to manufacturing defects, wear, or internal electrical problems.
    • Proximity Sensors: The system uses sensors to detect your approach and command the handles to present. Faulty or obstructed sensors can lead to inconsistent behavior.
    • Wiring/Connection Problems: Loose or corroded wiring connections to the handle motors or sensors can cause intermittent operation.
    • Physical Obstruction/Debris: Although you've checked, sometimes small debris, ice, or even a build-up of dirt can impede the handle's movement, especially in the retraction phase.

  2. Troubleshooting Steps:

    • Vehicle Restart: Perform a full vehicle restart (not just the infotainment screen). This can often clear temporary software glitches affecting various modules.
    • Check for Obstructions: Re-examine the handle mechanism closely for any tiny pebbles, leaves, or other debris that might not be immediately obvious but could be jamming the mechanism.
    • Software Updates: Ensure your R1S has the latest software update. Rivian frequently releases updates that address various bugs and improve vehicle functionality.
    • Key Fob Battery: While less likely to affect multiple handles intermittently, a low key fob battery can sometimes cause inconsistent vehicle recognition, which might indirectly affect handle presentation.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • Persistent Issues: If the problem continues across multiple doors and is not resolved by a vehicle restart or software update, it's time to contact Rivian Service.
    • Hardware Failure: Intermittent failures often precede complete hardware failure. If a handle is consistently failing to present or retract, it likely indicates a faulty motor, actuator, or sensor that needs replacement.
    • Warranty Coverage: As a 2025 model, your R1S is well within its warranty period. Door handle issues are typically covered. Rivian service technicians can run diagnostics to pinpoint the exact cause, which might include checking for specific Body Control Module (BCM) related OBD codes (e.g., B1XXX series codes related to door module or actuator faults).
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