2025 R1S DRL Flickering and Headlight Glitch

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 5:08 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2025 Rivian R1S Adventure

Hi all,

I've had my 2025 Rivian R1S Adventure for only a few months, and I'm already noticing an issue with the exterior lighting. The front DRL (Daytime Running Light) bar occasionally flickers, especially on the passenger side. It's not constant, but noticeable.

Also, once or twice, one of the main headlights seemed to briefly dim or glitch out before returning to normal. It's intermittent, which makes it hard to show, but it's concerning for a brand new vehicle. Has anyone else with a newer R1S seen similar lighting problems?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Intermittent flickering or dimming of exterior lights, especially on a new vehicle, can be concerning both for aesthetics and safety. Here's what to consider:

  1. Loose Connections:

    • Even on new vehicles, a connection to an LED module or wiring harness can sometimes be loose or improperly seated. Vibrations during driving can cause these intermittent issues.
  2. Faulty LED Module:

    • LED lights are generally very reliable, but individual LED modules or drivers can fail. If only a specific section of the DRL or one headlight is affected, it could indicate a faulty module that needs replacement.
  3. Wiring Issues:

    • A compromised wire, either pinched or with insulation damage, can cause intermittent power delivery, leading to flickering. This might not be visible without removing trim.
  4. Body Control Module (BCM) or Lighting Control Module:

    • The BCM or a dedicated lighting control module manages the power and signals to all exterior lights. A fault within this module or its software could lead to erratic lighting behavior.
  5. Software Glitch:

    • Less common for physical flickering, but a software bug could potentially cause brief power interruptions or incorrect signaling to the lighting system. Ensure your Rivian's software is up to date.

When to See a Shop: Because lighting is a critical safety feature, and given your vehicle's newness, it's best to schedule a service appointment with Rivian as soon as possible. Here's why:

  • Safety: Malfunctioning headlights or DRLs can reduce visibility for you and make your vehicle less visible to others, especially at night or in adverse weather.
  • Warranty: This issue should be covered under your vehicle's warranty.
  • Diagnosis: Intermittent electrical issues are notoriously difficult to diagnose without specialized tools and expertise. A service technician can check for diagnostic trouble codes, perform voltage drops tests, and inspect the wiring and modules more thoroughly.
  • Documentation: If possible, try to capture a video of the flickering or dimming when it occurs. This can be invaluable for the service technician to understand the problem.