- NHTSA has launched a preliminary probe covering 114,922 Rivian vehicles over rear toe link concerns.
- Rivian says its internal findings indicate the toe link joints are functioning as intended.
The United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a preliminary investigation involving 114,922 vehicles manufactured by Rivian. The review focuses on concerns related to the rear toe link assembly in certain vehicles after reports suggested a potential separation issue while the vehicles were in operation. The investigation covers model year 2022 through 2025 R1S sport utility vehicles and R1T pickup trucks.
According to the agency, its Office of Defects Investigation received two vehicle owner questionnaires describing incidents involving the left rear toe link. The reports indicated that the component separated while driving, causing the affected vehicles to unexpectedly move across multiple traffic lanes. One of the reported events resulted in a collision involving a nearby vehicle as well as a roadside barrier, prompting regulators to examine the matter more closely.
The safety review will evaluate how the rear toe link joint performs under foreseeable road usage and service conditions. Investigators will also examine the effectiveness of the company's current repair process related to the component. The preliminary evaluation is intended to determine whether a broader safety concern exists and whether additional actions may be required.
Key Details of the NHTSA Preliminary Investigation
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicles Covered | 114,922 |
| Models | R1S and R1T |
| Model Years | 2022–2025 |
| Reported Issue | Left rear toe link separation |
| Reported Collision | One incident reported |
In response to the agency's action, Rivian stated that its internal data shows the R1 toe link joints are operating as intended. The company also noted that its own investigation into the two owner questionnaires did not identify the joint itself as the source of the reported concerns. Rivian added that it is cooperating with the preliminary evaluation being conducted by NHTSA.
The latest investigation follows a previous action taken by the automaker in January 2026. At that time, Rivian recalled nearly 20,000 previously serviced R1S and R1T vehicles due to incorrectly assembled rear toe links. The company said it would replace the rear toe-link bolts at no cost to vehicle owners as part of the corrective measure.
The outcome of the preliminary evaluation will help determine whether further regulatory scrutiny or corrective actions are necessary. Investigators are expected to assess component durability, real-world operating conditions, and the adequacy of existing repair procedures as the review progresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is NHTSA investigating Rivian vehicles?
NHTSA is conducting a preliminary investigation into certain Rivian R1S and R1T vehicles after receiving reports that the left rear toe link separated while the vehicles were being driven. The reported issue allegedly caused unexpected vehicle movement across traffic lanes, with one case resulting in a collision. The agency is evaluating the component's performance under normal road conditions and reviewing the effectiveness of Rivian’s repair procedures to determine whether a broader safety concern exists.
Which Rivian models are included in the investigation?
The investigation covers approximately 114,922 Rivian vehicles, specifically the 2022 through 2025 model year R1S sport utility vehicles and R1T pickup trucks. These vehicles are being reviewed because of concerns related to the rear toe link assembly. Regulators are examining reported incidents and assessing whether the issue could affect vehicle safety. The evaluation does not automatically mean a defect has been confirmed but serves as an initial step in the safety review process.
What has Rivian said about the rear toe link issue?
Rivian has stated that its internal data indicates the R1 toe link joints are functioning as intended. The company also said that its own investigation of the two owner complaints cited by regulators did not identify the joint itself as the cause of the reported incidents. While disagreeing with some aspects of the allegations, Rivian confirmed that it is cooperating with NHTSA throughout the preliminary evaluation and review process.
Was there a previous recall related to rear toe links?
Yes, Rivian previously recalled nearly 20,000 serviced R1S and R1T vehicles in January 2026 due to incorrectly assembled rear toe links. As part of that recall action, the company announced that affected vehicles would receive replacement rear toe-link bolts free of charge. The current NHTSA investigation is separate and aims to determine whether additional concerns exist regarding the rear toe link system and its long-term performance under operating conditions.
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