Have Issues With Your Rivian Tonneau Cover? Read About Replacement Solutions Here.
Tonneau covers are an important part of many vehicles, providing protection for items stored in the bed of the truck. Unfortunately, Rivian's electric tonneau cover has been known to have issues with binding and expansion due to extreme temperatures. This can cause problems if the cover gets stuck, leaving everything inside the bed inaccessible.
Fortunately, Rivian is aware of this issue and plans to replace all affected tonneau covers via recall very soon. In the meantime, some people have had luck fixing their own covers by removing the rail cover on one side and then lifting that side of the cover leaf to pull off the gasket before sliding it back into place. However, it is recommended to wait until Rivian replaces the cover as they may be able to provide a better solution than what can be done at home.
In addition, some people have suggested using white lithium grease or silicone spray on the tracks periodically as a way to reduce friction and prevent binding. While this may help in some cases, it is not officially endorsed by Rivian and could potentially lead to more problems down the line. It is best to avoid any kind of lubricant unless instructed otherwise by Rivian.
Overall, while there are ways to temporarily fix the issue with Rivian's electric tonneau cover, it is ultimately best to wait for the official replacement from Rivian when it becomes available. This will ensure that you get a quality product that works properly and won't need further maintenance or repair. In the meantime, it is important to take extra care when opening and closing your tonneau cover so that you don't cause any further damage.
How can I fix the tonneau gasket?
If you're feeling frisky, you should be able to remove the rail cover on one side then lift that side of the cover leaf and pull the gasket off the side. Then slide it back in the groove, put the leaf back down and put the rail cover back on. However, Rivian will be replacing all tonneau covers via recall very soon, so it is recommended to wait for new hardware.
Is there a better design than the existing electric tonneau?
Some have suggested a system that is similar in appearance and using the same track system, but with manual operation to store and deploy. This would address the expansion/contraction of the panels issue. However, Rivian has not officially endorsed this suggestion.
What kind of lubricant should I use on the tracks?
It is not recommended to use white lithium grease or any other type of grease as it collects grit. Instead, regular treatment of the tracks with dry silicone spray is advised. This will help keep the tracks clean and lubricated.
How often should I check the tonneau gasket?
It is recommended to check the gasket every few months for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, it is best to replace the gasket as soon as possible. This will help ensure that your tonneau cover remains secure and watertight.