Years to avoid
Rivian R1S Years to Avoid
The 2025, 2023, 2026 model years stand out as the weakest in this Rivian R1S dataset. We only publish this page when at least four years are available and the score spread is large enough to make the comparison meaningful.
Data updated April 2026
- Weakest year
- 2025
- Model average
- 59/100
- Complaints, weakest year
- 45
- Recalls, weakest year
- 9
56/100 reliability
6-point range
4 crash · 1 fire reports
NHTSA campaigns on file
Bottom line
Why the 2025 Rivian R1S ranks last
The 2025 scores 56/100, rated mixed, versus a model average of 59/100. NHTSA data contains 45 owner complaints and 9 recall campaigns for this model year.
Its most-reported problem areas are Unknown Or Other (7), Exterior Lighting (6), Electrical System (5), Vehicle Speed Control (4). Those counts are investigation leads, not proof that every vehicle has the problem.
Inspect the full 2025 Rivian R1S record →Evidence by year
The weakest Rivian R1S model years compared
2025 Rivian R1S
- Complaints
- 45
- Recalls
- 9
- Crash reports
- 4
- Fire reports
- 1
Top issues: Unknown Or Other (7), Exterior Lighting (6), Electrical System (5)
View 2025 details →2023 Rivian R1S
- Complaints
- 60
- Recalls
- 9
- Crash reports
- 7
- Fire reports
- 0
Top issues: Air Bags (26), Electrical System (11), Unknown Or Other (7)
View 2023 details →2026 Rivian R1S
- Complaints
- 6
- Recalls
- 1
- Crash reports
- 3
- Fire reports
- 0
Top issues: Latches Locks Linkages (2), Vehicle Speed Control (1), Electrical System (1)
View 2026 details →Better alternatives
Stronger Rivian R1S years to put on your shortlist
| Model year | Score | Complaints | Recalls | Research |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 62/100 | 13 | 6 | View year |
Read this carefully
“Avoid” is a comparison signal, not a verdict on one VIN
A year qualifies here only when it trails the model average by at least five points, trails the best year by at least ten points, or falls below 60/100. The model also needs at least four scored years and a six-point spread. Age, sales volume and time on the road can affect raw complaint totals, so use the score and severity mix together.
Source trail
Where this Rivian R1S data comes from
VinExposed combines model-level research with the vehicle-specific history you get from a VIN. Reliability scores and complaint patterns come from Auto Reliability Index's Rivian R1S research, which analyzes NHTSA records and independent repair data.
Recall counts describe a model year, not the repair status of one car. Confirm the exact VIN with the official NHTSA recall lookup and a vehicle-history report before buying.
Buyer questions
Rivian R1S research FAQ
Which Rivian R1S years should I avoid?
2025, 2023, 2026 score materially below the strongest Rivian R1S years in this dataset. The 2025 is the weakest at 56/100, with 45 owner complaints and 9 recalls on file.
Does a low-scoring Rivian R1S year mean every car is bad?
No. Model-year data describes population-level patterns. A well-maintained vehicle with a clean title and completed recall work can be a better purchase than a neglected example from a higher-scoring year.
What should I buy instead of the worst Rivian R1S year?
The strongest alternatives in this dataset are 2024 (62/100). Compare price, mileage, equipment and the individual VIN before deciding.
Check the actual car
Model research narrows the list. The VIN confirms the car.
Check title brands, accidents, odometer history, auction records and recall status for the specific Rivian R1S you are considering.