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2022 Rivian R1T — Should You Buy One?

Typical asking price: $55,000–$75,000. This is one of the more reliable vehicles in its class — here's what to watch for anyway.

Kestrel Take

A genuinely impressive electric adventure truck — the R1T offers quad-motor performance, real off-road capability, clever storage (gear tunnel), and long range. But it's a first-generation vehicle from a young company, so early-build quirks, software, and service/parts availability are real concerns. A well-kept R1T with updates done and a healthy battery is a remarkable truck; verify software/recall history, battery health, and factor in Rivian's still-growing service network.

Known Issues for the 2022 Rivian R1T

Ranked by wallet impact. These are documented, recurring problems — not freak accidents.

First-gen build / software quirksMedium

Early R1Ts had various software bugs, hardware fixes, and recalls; verify updates and recalls were performed and everything works.

Repair cost range: $0-$2,000

Service / parts availability (young brand)Medium

Rivian's service network and parts supply are still growing; repairs can mean waits and travel. Factor in your location.

Repair cost range: Varies

Battery health / rangeMedium

Check battery health and range; towing/off-road cuts range. Verify remaining battery warranty.

Repair cost range: $0 under warranty / very expensive out

Tire wear (heavy, off-road tires)Low

A very heavy truck on all-terrain tires; tires wear and cost more.

Repair cost range: $1,000-$1,800

Walk-Away Red Flags

  • Outstanding recalls/software
  • Battery/range concerns
  • Far from Rivian service
  • Salvage title

Good Signs

  • Updates/recalls done, everything working
  • Healthy battery, remaining warranty
  • Reasonable proximity to service

Found a specific Rivian R1T?

This page covers what goes wrong on the 2022 Rivian R1T in general. The Kestrel report covers this specific car— the asking price vs. market, the photos, the seller's description, and a BUY / NEGOTIATE / WALK AWAY verdict with a negotiation script.

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Known issues on this page are based on documented owner reports, NHTSA complaints, class-action records, and manufacturer technical service bulletins. Individual vehicles vary. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always worth doing.