Rivian recalls 14 R2 SUVs over potential loss of drive power

Rivian has issued a small recall for its new R2 after discovering a manufacturing issue that could cause the vehicle to suddenly lose drive power.

Since the R2 will not be available in Canada until some time next year, no similar recall has been issued by Transport Canada.

According to a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall covers just 14 model year 2027 Rivian R2s produced between May 18 and August 27, 2026.

The issue involves a fastener connected to the high-voltage battery that may not have been tightened to the proper specification. If the connection is loose, the R2 could lose motive power without warning, increasing the risk of a crash.

Rivian says that all 14 vehicles included in the recall have the defect.

The problem was discovered on September 17, when a manufacturing operator identified an under-torqued high-voltage fastener after it had passed through an automated tightening station. Rivian subsequently opened an investigation to determine the cause and identify which vehicles could be affected.

That investigation ran through September 24, when Rivian decided to voluntarily recall all 14 potentially affected R2s. The automated station involved has since been reprogrammed to reject improperly torqued fasteners.

Affected vehicles will be inspected, with Rivian repairing the connection or replacing damaged components as necessary at no cost to owners.

The recall comes during the early stages of Rivian’s R2 production ramp. The smaller SUV began reaching U.S. customers in June and helped Rivian post record deliveries in the third quarter.

Canadian buyers still have a longer wait. Rivian has confirmed R2 deliveries in Canada will begin in 2027, with early reservation holders expected to receive order invitations during the first half of the year.

You can read the full NHTSA recall notice below.