Rivian Short Circuit or Severe Ground Fault on Output

Charger trips the house breaker immediately when a vehicle is plugged in

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Shorted output conductors in cable, Pinched cable at strain relief, Internal contactor failure, Incorrect wiring at terminal block

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Repeated breaker tripping indicates a serious fault. Do not keep resetting the breaker.

  • Step 1 – Visual cable inspection: Look for crushed, cut, or severely kinked sections of the cable. If found, discontinue use.
  • Step 2 – Isolate charger: With breaker OFF, disconnect the output cable from the internal terminals (only if you are qualified). Turn breaker ON with cable disconnected. If the breaker no longer trips, the cable is likely shorted.
  • Step 3 – Check terminal wiring: Confirm that L1, L2, and ground are correctly wired and no strands are bridging between terminals.

Shorted cables or internal components must be replaced; this is not a user-serviceable repair for most homeowners.

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Repair Difficulty

Professional Required 5/5

Required Part

Rivian Wall Charger Output Cable Assembly
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