Rivian R1S Gen2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
The R1S Gen2, arriving in 2025, is the thoroughly reworked version of the large electric SUV and adopts all the advances Rivian introduced with the second generation. Its centerpiece is the new zonal architecture, which reduces the previous multitude of control units to three central computers, shortens the wiring harness, and noticeably simplifies the electronics. Add the in-house, oil-cooled Enduro drive units that Rivian now builds itself. As a three-row premium adventure SUV, the R1S stays uncompromising in its capability, yet feels technically more mature and tidier than the Gen1 predecessor.
For motors, buyers choose between the Tri-Motor with three drive units and roughly 850 hp, and the Quad-Motor with four units and around 1,025 hp. From a shop perspective the principle holds: fewer drive units mean fewer potential failure points, which makes the Tri-Motor the more relaxed baseline unless you need the full Quad output. The most important advance is that the notorious 12V deep-discharge problem of the first generation is considered solved with the new architecture. That very fault left Gen1 vehicles completely dead, and its elimination is the central gain in everyday usability.
Against that stands the fact that Gen2 is simply new, with almost no long-term data available. Recalls already exist: a ground connection in the high-voltage distribution unit can trigger a loss of drive power, the rear tie link joint can separate, and the highway assist may sometimes misidentify vehicles ahead. Halfshafts can loosen at the inner CV joint, the Quad adds thermal-system faults with power reduction, and the new zonal software shows the expected teething issues. On the vehicle side, squeaking electromagnetic door handles stand out, along with isolated complete HVAC failures on early Gen2 examples. Particularly critical on the R1S is the hard-to-reach rear emergency release, especially with the third row occupied. The tie rod recall also affects 2025 vehicles with earlier suspension work.
For a purchase the takeaway is clear: Gen2 is the better choice over Gen1, mainly because of the solved 12V problem and the simplified electronics. Even so, restraint is warranted with such a young model. Check every recall by VIN, insist on full drivetrain warranty coverage, and let a few software updates settle in. Anyone using the third row should get familiar with the hidden emergency release. Honest verdict: the more mature, more family-friendly Rivian, but still without a solid long-term record.
Generations
Engine Overview
The Rivian R1S Gen2 is available with 2 engine variants — from 850 to 1025 hp.
The Gen2 quad motor is Rivian's first fully in-house, oil-cooled Enduro drive unit, delivering roughly 1,025 hp from four electric motors. The layout is cleverly split: the rear unit tuned for maximum torque, the front for cruising efficiency. Pressurised oil cooling replaces the earlier quad's glycol-only setup and keeps the motors thermally stable even under repeated launches. Acceleration is brutal (under three seconds to 60 mph) and traction from individual wheel control is exceptional. As the newest variant, long-term data is almost entirely absent; the issues seen so far are software and supplier parts, not the motors.
- !! Recall: high-voltage distribution box ground strap (drive power loss)
An improperly tightened ground connection inside the high-voltage distribution box can cause a sudden loss of drive power. Rivian inspects the joint and, if needed, replaces the HV battery pack free of charge.
Symptoms: Sudden loss of drive power while driving, warning message in the display. - !! Recall: rear toe link joint separation
Vehicles whose rear toe link was disassembled and reassembled with the pre-March-2025 service procedure may develop joint separation. Rivian replaces the toe link bolts free of charge (NHTSA 26V003).
Symptoms: Vague rear steering behaviour, clunking, or sudden loss of steering control. - !! Half-shaft separates at inner CV joint from 20,000 km
On certain Gen2 builds, supplier-made half-shafts can separate at the inner constant-velocity joint. Rivian replaces the half-shaft and motor disconnect under a campaign free of charge.
Symptoms: Grinding noise and vibration under acceleration, limited-performance warning.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
The Gen2 tri-motor uses three Rivian-built, oil-cooled Enduro drive units (one front, two rear) for roughly 850 hp. The zonal electrical architecture, condensed to three central zone controllers, cuts wiring-harness complexity and improves serviceability. Mechanically the drive units are solidly engineered and thermally well managed; the documented issues concern supplier half-shafts and software rather than the motors themselves. As the platform only launched in 2025, reliable long-term high-mileage data is still missing. Buyers should confirm all recalls are closed and that software is up to date.
- !! Recall: high-voltage distribution box ground strap (drive power loss)
An improperly tightened ground connection inside the high-voltage distribution box can cause a sudden loss of drive power. Rivian inspects the joint and, if needed, replaces the HV battery pack free of charge.
Symptoms: Sudden loss of drive power while driving, warning message in the display. - !! Recall: rear toe link joint separation
Vehicles whose rear toe link was disassembled and reassembled with the pre-March-2025 service procedure may develop joint separation. Rivian replaces the toe link bolts free of charge (NHTSA 26V003).
Symptoms: Vague rear steering behaviour, clunking, or sudden loss of steering control. - !! Front half-shaft separates at inner CV joint from 20,000 km
On certain Gen2 builds, supplier-made front half-shafts can separate at the inner constant-velocity joint. Rivian replaces the half-shaft and motor disconnect under a service campaign.
Symptoms: Grinding noise and vibration under acceleration, limited-performance warning.
+ 2 more engine weaknesses + vehicle weaknesses
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Door handles squeak — Gen2 specific Gen2 R1S has the same electromagnetic door handle system as the R1T. Squeaks on actuation. Rivian acknowledges the problem and is working on replacement handles. Symptoms: Door handles squeak on every press | Low |
Top Reported Issues
Known Problems and Issues +
A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Rivian R1S Gen2 (2025–2025) — 10 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Body, Electronics, HVAC, Other. Considered reliable: R1-Tri-Gen2 (Electric Motor (Tri, Gen2)), R1-Quad-Gen2 (Electric Motor (Quad, Gen2)).
What to watch out for with the Rivian R1S? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems and weaknesses does the Rivian R1S Gen2 have? +
What should I look for when buying a used Rivian R1S Gen2? +
Which engine is recommended? +
Which Rivian R1S Gen2 engine is the most reliable? +
Which Rivian R1S Gen2 engine is the most fun? +
Is the Rivian R1S Gen2 worth buying used? +
What horsepower variants are available for the Rivian R1S Gen2? +
Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee