How to Put Rivian in Car Wash Mode: Easy Steps for Safe Cleaning
If you own a Rivian, you know it’s more than just a car—it’s a high-tech machine built for adventure. But when it’s time for a car wash, you need to make sure your vehicle is ready and protected.
Putting your Rivian in Car Wash Mode isn’t just a simple step; it’s essential to keep your doors, windows, and charging ports safe while cleaning. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to activate Car Wash Mode quickly and easily.
By the end, you’ll feel confident that your Rivian is ready for a spotless shine without any worries. Keep reading to find out how to protect your investment every time you hit the car wash.
Why Use Car Wash Mode
Using Car Wash Mode in your Rivian isn’t just a convenience—it’s a smart way to protect your vehicle. Activating this mode prepares your truck for the unique conditions of an automatic or manual car wash. It adjusts various systems to prevent damage and ensure a smooth cleaning process.
Protecting Your Rivian
Your Rivian has advanced features like automatic wipers, locks, and mirrors that can react unpredictably during a car wash. Car Wash Mode temporarily disables these functions to avoid accidental activation. This helps keep your side mirrors from folding in or your windshield wipers from turning on unexpectedly.
I once skipped this step and ended up with scratched mirrors and a dented door handle after a high-pressure wash. That experience taught me how crucial it is to protect these sensitive parts before washing.
Avoiding Damage During Wash
Car Wash Mode also secures your charging port and disables automatic braking systems. Without this, sensors might mistake water sprays for obstacles, triggering emergency stops and interruptions. This can lead to an incomplete wash or even damage to your Rivian’s electronic components.
Enabling Car Wash Mode ensures your vehicle won’t respond to external triggers during the wash, reducing the risk of costly repairs. Have you ever wondered how a simple setting could save you from a big headache at the car wash?
Preparing Your Vehicle
Getting your Rivian ready for a car wash keeps it safe and avoids damage. Proper preparation helps the wash run smoothly and protects your vehicle’s features. Follow these simple steps to prepare your Rivian before entering Car Wash Mode.
Closing Windows And Doors
Make sure all windows are fully closed. Open windows can let water inside and cause damage. Check each door and the rear hatch to confirm they are securely shut. This prevents water and dirt from entering the cabin or cargo area. A tight seal keeps your interior dry and clean.
Disabling Automatic Features
Turn off automatic windshield wipers. They may activate during the wash and cause harm. Also, disable automatic braking and parking sensors. These systems can react to water sprays and create unwanted stops or alerts. Deactivating these features prevents interruptions and keeps the wash process smooth.
Activating Car Wash Mode
Activate Car Wash Mode on your Rivian by accessing the vehicle settings through the touchscreen. This mode locks doors and disables windshield wipers to prevent damage during the wash. Follow on-screen prompts to enable it before entering the car wash.
Activating Car Wash Mode in your Rivian vehicle is a straightforward process designed to make your car wash experience seamless. This feature ensures your vehicle’s systems are protected and optimized for a smooth wash. Let’s explore the two main ways to activate Car Wash Mode.
Using The Touchscreen
The touchscreen in your Rivian is intuitive and user-friendly. Start by turning on your vehicle and navigating to the main menu. Look for the ‘Settings’ option and select ‘Vehicle’. From there, you’ll find the ‘Car Wash Mode’ setting. Tap to activate it, and your Rivian will automatically adjust mirrors and disable wipers, ensuring no interference during the wash.
Using The Mobile App
The Rivian mobile app offers another convenient way to activate Car Wash Mode. Open the app on your smartphone and ensure your vehicle is connected. Once you’re logged in, navigate to the ‘Vehicle Controls’ section. Here, you can activate Car Wash Mode with just a tap, making it incredibly handy if you’re not near the vehicle. Imagine being able to set it up while waiting in line at the car wash—saves time and hassle!
Car Wash Mode Features
The Car Wash Mode in Rivian prepares your vehicle for a smooth and safe car wash experience. It adjusts several settings to avoid damage and unwanted interruptions. These features help protect your Rivian from automatic wipers, door locks, and charging ports during the wash.
Suspending Automatic Wipers
Car Wash Mode stops the automatic wipers from turning on. This prevents the wipers from moving unexpectedly and getting damaged. It keeps the windshield clear without any sudden movements.
Adjusting Door Locks
The doors lock automatically to avoid opening during the wash. This feature keeps water and soap from entering inside. It also ensures the doors stay secure until the wash is complete.
Disabling Charging Port
The charging port locks and disables charging while in Car Wash Mode. This prevents water from entering the port. It also stops accidental unplugging or charging interruptions during the wash.
Exiting Car Wash Mode
Exiting Car Wash Mode in your Rivian is just as important as entering it correctly. If you don’t exit properly, some functions might stay limited, or you could face unexpected alerts. Knowing how to switch back to normal driving mode helps you get back on the road smoothly and safely.
Manual Exit Steps
If your Rivian doesn’t exit Car Wash Mode automatically, you can do it yourself. First, make sure the vehicle is parked and the car wash process has fully ended. Then, access the vehicle’s touchscreen or app controls.
- Locate the Car Wash Mode option in the settings menu.
- Tap on “Exit Car Wash Mode” or a similar command.
- Confirm your choice if prompted.
Once done, the vehicle will restore all normal functions like door locking, automatic windows, and sensor activity. Have you ever forgotten to exit Car Wash Mode and noticed limited controls afterward? This manual method saves you from that hassle.
Automatic Deactivation
Rivian vehicles are designed to automatically exit Car Wash Mode once certain conditions are met. Typically, this happens when you shift the car out of park and start driving, signaling that the wash is complete.
- The vehicle runs a quick system check to verify it’s safe to resume normal operation.
- If everything looks good, Car Wash Mode switches off without you needing to do anything.
However, remember that some car washes might stop the vehicle abruptly or leave it in park longer than usual. In such cases, automatic deactivation might not trigger right away. How often do you check if your Rivian has exited Car Wash Mode after a wash? Staying aware prevents unexpected issues on your drive home.
Tips For Safe Cleaning
Keeping your Rivian clean is important, but doing it safely protects both your vehicle and your investment. Car wash mode is designed to prepare your truck or SUV for a hassle-free wash, but understanding how to choose the right wash and where to avoid high-pressure sprays can make a big difference in the results and safety.
Choosing The Right Car Wash
Not all car washes are created equal for electric vehicles like Rivian. Look for touchless or soft-cloth car washes to reduce the risk of scratches and damage to sensors or cameras.
Self-service bays give you full control over the water pressure and soap, which many Rivian owners prefer. You can carefully avoid delicate areas and ensure a gentle clean.
Ask yourself: does this wash use harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes? If yes, steer clear. Your Rivian’s finish and tech deserve gentle care.
Avoiding High-pressure Areas
High-pressure water jets can harm your Rivian’s charging ports, sensors, and seals. Avoid directing strong streams near the front camera, door handles, and the charging inlet.
When using a pressure washer, keep the nozzle at least 12 inches away and use a wide spray pattern. This reduces the impact force on sensitive parts.
Think about your last car wash experience—did you notice any water pooling near electrical areas? That’s a sign to adjust your technique or choose a different wash.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Activate Car Wash Mode In A Rivian?
To activate Car Wash Mode, go to your Rivian’s touchscreen settings. Select “Controls,” then “Car Wash Mode. “ Follow the prompts to secure windows and disable automatic wipers. This mode prepares your vehicle for a safe, damage-free car wash experience.
What Features Does Rivian Car Wash Mode Disable?
Car Wash Mode disables the automatic windshield wipers, locks the charging port, and secures windows. It prevents accidental sensor activation during the wash. This ensures your Rivian remains protected and avoids unnecessary interruptions throughout the car wash process.
Can I Use Manual Car Washes With Rivian Car Wash Mode?
Yes, manual and automatic car washes are safe with Car Wash Mode enabled. The mode prepares your Rivian by locking sensitive features. Always follow manufacturer instructions and ensure the mode is active before starting the wash.
Why Is Car Wash Mode Important For Rivian Owners?
Car Wash Mode protects sensors and moving parts from damage during washes. It prevents false triggers and secures windows and charging ports. This keeps your Rivian safe and ensures a smooth cleaning process without manual intervention.
Conclusion
Putting your Rivian in Car Wash Mode is simple and quick. This feature helps protect your vehicle during cleaning. Follow the steps carefully to avoid damage. Always double-check that all windows and doors are closed. Remember to turn off the mode after washing.
Taking these precautions keeps your Rivian safe and clean. Enjoy a hassle-free car wash every time. Keep your electric vehicle in top shape with ease.
By Herbert Langham
ASE-Certified Master Technician & Garage Consultant based in Columbus, Ohio. Herbert helps drivers choose reliable automotive tools, accessories, and garage equipment through practical, experience-based advice.