Rivian’s recall streak just added its 18th campaign since the R1S and R1T first hit driveways in 2022. That number should get your attention before you sign anything. But it shouldn’t scare you off entirely — the details matter more than the headline count.
Most of these fixes have been minor. Many are software-based or affect only a tiny sliver of the fleet. A couple, though, are serious enough that you’d want to check a specific VIN before handing over a deposit.
What’s the newest recall in Rivian’s recall streak?
In August 2026, Rivian expanded a front turn-signal recall by 3,829 vehicles. Its supplier failed to fully quarantine defective parts. That brings the total affected to 31,711 R1S and R1T models. The fix is free and quick, but it points to a supplier quality problem Rivian thought it had already solved.
The issue is simple: one or both front turn signal lamps might not illuminate or flash properly. That’s a real visibility risk for other drivers. Rivian says it isn’t aware of any crashes or injuries tied to the defect. The company estimates only about 0.6% of the recalled vehicles actually have the faulty part. Still, this is the tenth recall specifically tied to the 2025 R1S. It stems from the exact same supplier issue Rivian first flagged back in June 2025.
How many total recalls has Rivian issued?
Rivian has now issued 18 recall campaigns covering the R1T and R1S since deliveries began in 2022. That’s a lot for a company that’s only been shipping vehicles at real volume for a few years. It’s also fairly typical for any young automaker scaling up first-generation hardware.
| Recall | Date | Vehicles Affected | Issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front turn signal (expansion) | Aug 2026 | 31,711 total | Lamps may not illuminate/flash |
| Seat belt retractor bolt | Jan 2026 | MY2022-2026 R1S/R1T | Second-row retractor bolt improperly installed |
| Rear toe link bolts | Jan 2026 | ~19,641 | Toe link may separate after service |
| Highway Assist software | Oct 2025 | 2025 R1S/R1T | May fail to detect lead vehicle |
Is there something bigger brewing than the everyday recalls?
Yes — and this is the one worth watching closely. NHTSA opened a preliminary investigation in May 2026 into 114,922 R1 vehicles. The models span 2022 to 2025 and involve reports that the rear toe link can separate while driving.
Two owners reported the left rear toe link separating. In at least one case, the vehicle hadn’t even been serviced beforehand. That suggests the problem may extend beyond the vehicles Rivian already recalled for the botched service procedure. A preliminary investigation doesn’t guarantee a bigger recall is coming. But a suspension part that can separate mid-drive is not something to shrug off.
If you’re shopping used, check a VIN against both the official recall and this open investigation before you buy. That’s a step we always recommend in our used EV buying guide.
How does Rivian’s reliability actually stack up?
Not great, honestly. Rivian ranked last among 26 brands in Consumer Reports’ most recent predicted-reliability study. The company has also laid off hundreds of employees this year to cut costs. That’s the uncomfortable backdrop against which this recall streak keeps growing.
Consumer Reports points to in-car electronics and body hardware as the most common owner-reported problem areas. These aren’t catastrophic failures. They’re more the kind of nagging issues that get old fast. If gadget glitches and trim rattles would drive you crazy, weigh that alongside the recalls themselves.
So should you still buy an R1S or R1T?
I’d still buy one, but with eyes open. The turn-signal fix is trivial. The seat belt bolt issue gets caught and corrected for free. And Rivian has been reasonably fast about acknowledging problems rather than burying them.
The one thing that would genuinely give me pause is the open toe-link investigation. If you’re eyeing a used 2022-2025 model, get the VIN checked. Ask for service records. And don’t skip a pre-purchase inspection focused on the rear suspension.
For new 2026 models, pricing has actually climbed. Rivian discontinued the entry-level Dual Standard trims this summer. That pushed the R1T’s starting price to around $79,990 and the R1S to roughly $90,990. So you’re paying a premium on top of the recall history.
If that price jump gives you sticker shock, it’s worth cross-shopping. Our Rivian R2 vs Tesla Model Y comparison covers a cheaper Rivian option. Our look at the 2026 electric truck market shows how the R1T stacks up against rivals with their own recall baggage. The Silverado EV, for instance, has racked up nine recalls of its own. No electric truck or SUV on the market right now is recall-free. Judging Rivian in isolation misses the bigger picture.
Before you commit real money, run the numbers through our decision framework for buying an EV in 2026. Factor in resale value, charging access, and how a young automaker’s recall history might affect long-term ownership costs.
FAQ
Is the Rivian turn signal recall dangerous?
Not especially. Rivian estimates less than 1% of recalled vehicles actually have the defect, and it isn’t aware of any crashes linked to it. It’s still worth getting checked since a dead turn signal is a real visibility hazard.
How do I check if my Rivian is affected by a recall?
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through Rivian’s own recall lookup page. Both databases update as new campaigns and investigations are opened, including the ongoing toe-link investigation.
Does Rivian fix recalls for free?
Yes. Every recall repair, including inspections, part replacements, and software updates, is covered under Rivian’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty at no cost to the owner.
Should I avoid buying a used Rivian R1S or R1T right now?
No, but be more careful with 2022-2025 models given the open suspension investigation. Confirm all recall work is completed, request service history, and get an independent inspection before finalizing the purchase.