I’ve Had a Ford F-150 Lightning, a Tesla Cybertruck and Now I’m Driving a Mustang Mach-E, But I’m Thinking of Getting a Rivian R1T And I’m concerned of Ease of Warranty Repair

This evening, I was scrolling through the “RIVIAN Electric Vehicles Discussion” group on Facebook and came across a post by Andy. Andy is considering an R1T as his next vehicle after owning a Lightning, Cybertruck, and now is driving a Mach-E Rally, so he’s already familiar with EVs. He wants to know how reliable it is, how easy warranty repairs are, and what key differences exist between models beyond motors, batteries, performance, and range. He’s also curious about must-have features and the main distinctions between Gen 1 and Gen 2.

Andy says, “I'm considering an R1T as my next vehicle and have a few questions. I previously owned a Lightning and a Cybertruck and currently drive a Mach-E Rally, so I'm familiar with EV life. First, how reliable is the warranty repair process, and how easy is it if needed? Aside from motors, batteries, performance, and range, what are the key differences between the models? Are there any must-have features? Also, what are the main differences between Gen 1 and Gen 2? Any additional input would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!”

Under Andy’s post, several community members chimed in with their experiences and insights. Irina BestNails shared her thoughts on the back seats of the R1T, stating, “I feel like the R1T’s back seats are not very ergonomic and sit too upright. I had to ride in the back of my truck from Seattle to Portland, and I wasn’t comfortable after 30–45 minutes. However, my kids do just fine in the back. The R1S second row reclines a couple of inches, but the center armrest with cupholders is positioned at an awkward angle. Repairing a Rivian can be a hassle, but it depends on the type of damage or defect. Some critical repairs are handled immediately by a Rivian Service Center, while others can take months just to get an appointment and then weeks to fix. There are a couple of major differences between the two generations. Gen 2 features higher-quality cameras and will eventually receive “FSD.” The light bar also displays the charging status. There are other minor hardware changes, but overall, both the truck and SUV are great vehicles. Thanks!”

Mike Kudrak provided a technical comparison between the two generations, saying, “I’m also in the market for a new vehicle. Gen 1 has heavier doors, more computers, lower-quality cameras (noticeable in the blind spot view, 360-degree view, and rear camera), lower processing power, and physical latching door handles. Gen 2 features lighter doors (though this may just be perception), fewer computers, higher-quality cameras, better processing chips, and virtual door handles, meaning you’re actuating a motor rather than physically moving a linkage. The improved cameras and processors in Gen 2 have led to speculation that it could eventually support full self-driving (FSD), possibly even an unsupervised version, which wouldn't be available on Gen 1. Reportedly, Gen 1 has around 17 computers, while Gen 2 has between 7 and 10. Another key difference is Gen 2’s fully addressable LED light bar in the front and rear, allowing for a police-style directional indicator when hazards are on, and some reviewers have even shown a customized holiday-themed locking sequence.”

Santiago Gomez weighed in on the warranty repair process: “I’ll only comment on the ease and convenience of warranty repairs. If that’s a top priority for you, I recommend reaching out to your local service center, scheduling a demo drive is probably the best way to start, and asking about their average turnaround time for service. Many service centers are booked months in advance, but my local service center is incredibly fast, even quicker than my local BMW service centers.” Sean Stevenson added, “Rivians are designed for off-road capability and are more heavy-duty than any other EV. The Lightning is highly capable when it comes to heavy payloads but lacks Rivian’s off-road features. With six inches of air suspension travel and quad motors (Gen 1) producing 835 horsepower and 900 lb-ft of torque, it can launch from 0-60 mph in around three seconds. However, due to its off-road focus and overall weight, it won’t handle corners as well as many other EVs. The three LCD screens, two in the front and one in the rear, are a nice touch, and the stereo system is phenomenal. The Gen 2 tri-motor is the latest and greatest, or if you don’t need a third row, you might want to wait for the smaller R2.”

As you consider the R1T, it's essential to weigh its reliability, performance, and range. Many users appreciate the vehicle's off-road capabilities, and the improvements made in the Gen 2 models, such as enhanced camera systems and updated technology, make it a compelling option for those familiar with EVs.

For more insights on the R1T and its features, you can check out this article: "I Just Watched Rivian R1T Pull Stuck Cybertruck Out of Pismos Sand - Here's What It Reveals About". This piece discusses a real-world scenario showcasing the R1T's capabilities in off-road conditions, highlighting how it performed compared to the Cybertruck. It's an eye-opener for anyone considering their off-road potential.

When it comes to warranty repairs, experiences vary, as Santiago mentioned. The speed and efficiency of repairs can depend heavily on the service center you choose. Some users report quick turnaround times, while others have faced delays. Therefore, it's wise to reach out to local service centers and ask about their average service times before making a decision. For insights on how well the R1T charges in cold weather, read this article: "So I Charged My R1T Rivian Truck to 97% and Left It Unplugged in Single-Digit Temps - Woke Up in the Morning to 100%". This article explores how temperature impacts battery performance, a crucial consideration for those in colder climates.

In terms of performance, the Rivian R1T shines with its off-road capabilities, making it a standout choice for adventurous drivers. The quad-motor system in Gen 1 delivers impressive power, but Gen 2 is rumored to offer even better performance with advanced technology. For a more detailed comparison, refer to "Tesla Cybertruck Goes Face to Face Against Rivian R1T - 1st Road Comparison". This article dives into a direct comparison of the two vehicles, examining their strengths and weaknesses in various conditions, helping prospective buyers make informed decisions.

If you're debating between the R1T and other EVs, consider reading about why the R1T may not be the perfect pickup for traditional truck drivers in "Why Rivian R1T Isn't an EV Truck Convert for Pickup Drivers". This article discusses the R1T's features compared to conventional trucks, helping readers understand the potential trade-offs.

As you weigh your options, remember that making a decision about your next vehicle is not just about the features and specifications but also about how well it fits your lifestyle and needs. Whether you're looking for cutting-edge technology or off-road prowess, the Rivian R1T has much to offer.

In conclusion, the journey toward selecting your next electric vehicle can be a complex one, filled with various considerations and insights from current owners. Engage with the community, gather experiences, and make an informed decision that suits your preferences.

As a final thought, consider this moral lesson: understanding the nuances of the vehicles you're interested in can empower you to make a more informed decision, ensuring that you choose a vehicle that truly aligns with your needs.

What features are most important to you when considering an electric vehicle? Have you had experiences with the Rivian R1T or other EVs you’d like to share?

Please join the conversation in the comments below!

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.