Streamed from the official YouTube channel Out of Spec Reviews .
BEWARE RIVIAN CAN RUN OUT OF CHARGE ABOVE 0% - LFP BATTERY CALIBRATION ISSUE & HOW TO FIX
Out of Spec Reviews
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This video addresses a critical software calibration issue affecting Rivian R1S LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) models, where the state of charge (SoC) estimation becomes inaccurate, potentially leading to unexpected shutdowns even with a reported percentage above zero. The hosts detail their own experiences and a concerning anecdote from a friend who was stranded with 20% SoC showing. While Rivian has released a software fix (version 2025.38.30) and advises multiple full charges to recalibrate the battery, the communication surrounding the issue was reportedly poor, with some owners receiving no prior warning. The video also explains the unique characteristics of LFP batteries, highlighting why regular 100% charging is necessary for accurate calibration, despite potential long-term cell stress. The experiment showed the vehicle continuing to operate for a significant distance and energy input while displaying 0% SoC, confirming the BMS (Battery Management System) issues. The overall verdict is that while a fix is available, the initial rollout and communication from Rivian were problematic, and owners need to be diligent with recalibration. The video also touches on similar calibration issues seen in other EVs like the F-150 Lightning and Lucid.
Vehicle Specs
| Brand | Rivian |
|---|---|
| Model | R1S |
| Trim | Dual Standard |
| Body | R1S |
| Drivetrain | AWD |