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2023 RIVIAN R1S Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated Jun 13, 2026·Ethan Miller·4 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

6.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2023 RIVIAN R1S has an average reliability rating, underscored by a high number of recalls impacting safety systems.
  • Inspect air bag fastener integrity and seat belt anchorages thoroughly; these are recurring recall themes.
  • Confirm all manufacturer recalls, especially those related to safety-critical components, have been completed.
  • While no consumer complaints are logged, the volume of recalls warrants careful examination of the vehicle's service history.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2023 RIVIAN R1S

The 2023 RIVIAN R1S offers a unique blend of electric performance and SUV utility, but used car buyers should approach with informed caution. While the vehicle boasts zero reported consumer complaints, a significant number of recalls, totaling 14, highlight potential manufacturing and assembly concerns. These recalls disproportionately affect safety-critical systems such as air bags and seat belts, alongside issues with exterior lighting and software. The Rollover safety rating of 4 stars is a positive indicator, but overall safety ratings remain unrated. Its electric nature means no fuel economy figures are applicable in the traditional sense, but potential buyers should factor in the implications of its high recall count, which suggests potential repair costs.

Critical Failure Risk

Recalls indicate issues with air bag attachment fasteners, potentially affecting deployment integrity. This is a critical safety concern.

Early detection can help you avoid a $100-$500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls14
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

0

No primary complaint themes found.

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.0/ 10

Practicality

8.0/ 10

The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing electric SUV capability and willing to conduct rigorous pre-purchase inspections.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a historically proven, low-maintenance vehicle with minimal recall history.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2023 RIVIAN R1S Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Body Style
Suv

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Air Bag Fastener Issues

Most reported

Usage data observed

2. Seat Belt Anchorage/Retractor Issues

Usage data observed

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

10,000 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
14 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2023 RIVIAN R1S reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 0.

How practical is the 2023 RIVIAN R1S for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 8.0/10. The score is supported by solid day-to-day usability signals. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 501 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 41%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 8.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Tire Rotation (Parts: Tire Lubricant) - Cabin Air Filter Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Wiper Blade Inspection at 10,000 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $100 - $250. Repair prediction highlight: Air Bag Fasteners (estimated cost Min: $0 • Max: $200 (Recall Service)).

What transmission does the 2023 RIVIAN R1S use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S, transmission is Automatic.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

13 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S, seating capacity is 7.

What body style is the 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S, body style is suv.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

NHTSA ratings: Rollover 4/5.

Are there open safety recalls on the 2023 RIVIAN R1S?▾

This model year has 14 official safety campaigns listed.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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