Electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming increasingly popular, with more automakers offering electric models that combine sustainability, innovation, and cutting-edge technology. Rivian, one of the newest players in the EV market, has gained attention for its all-electric trucks and SUVs. As the adoption of electric vehicles continues to grow, ensuring that EV owners have access to specialized repair services is crucial. This is where Rivian Certified Shops come into play.

A Rivian Certified Shop is an auto repair and service center that has been officially authorized and trained by Rivian to work on their vehicles. These shops have gone through the rigorous process of meeting the manufacturer’s standards and are equipped with the necessary tools and expertise to handle any repairs or maintenance for Rivian vehicles. For EV owners, choosing a certified shop is critical to ensuring their vehicle receives the best care possible. Here’s why Rivian Certified Shops matter for EV owners and what they bring to the table.

1. Specialized Knowledge and Expertise
   Rivian vehicles are designed with cutting-edge technology, and their maintenance requires specialized knowledge. Unlike traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, electric vehicles have unique components such as battery packs, electric drivetrains, and intricate software systems.

Rivian Certified Shops employ technicians who are specifically trained on Rivian’s electric vehicle technology, ensuring they are well-versed in the intricacies of the brand’s electric models. These technicians receive regular training from Rivian to stay up-to-date with the latest vehicle updates, software, and repair techniques. This expertise is essential for EV owners, as it ensures that any repairs or maintenance are done correctly and efficiently.

2. Access to Genuine Rivian Parts
   One of the most important aspects of vehicle repair is using high-quality parts. Rivian Certified Shops have access to genuine Rivian parts directly from the manufacturer, ensuring that any replacement components are specifically designed for the vehicle. Using original parts is critical for maintaining the vehicle’s performance, safety, and longevity.

Non-certified shops may use aftermarket parts, which can vary in quality and may not be designed to work seamlessly with the vehicle’s systems. Genuine parts, on the other hand, are manufactured to meet the exact specifications of Rivian’s vehicles and come with the assurance of quality, reliability, and warranty coverage.

3. Advanced Diagnostic Tools and Equipment
   Rivian Certified Shops are equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment specifically tailored for Rivian’s electric vehicles. These shops have access to proprietary software and diagnostic systems that allow technicians to properly identify any issues with the vehicle’s electronic systems, battery health, or drivetrain.

Electric vehicles, especially those from innovative brands like Rivian, often rely heavily on software to control various aspects of the vehicle’s functionality. A Rivian Certified Shop will have the ability to perform software updates, troubleshoot issues related to the vehicle’s control systems, and diagnose problems that are specific to EVs. This specialized equipment helps ensure accurate diagnostics and effective repairs, ultimately keeping your vehicle running at peak performance.

4. Manufacturer-Backed Warranty and Protection
   When you take your Rivian vehicle to a certified shop, you can have confidence that the work performed will be covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Rivian Certified Shops are authorized to carry out repairs and maintenance that comply with the terms of Rivian’s warranty. If any repairs are needed due to defects or issues covered under the warranty, having your vehicle serviced at a certified shop will ensure that your warranty remains intact.

On the other hand, taking your vehicle to an uncertified shop may risk voiding the warranty or reducing the coverage, especially if non-OEM parts or unapproved repair techniques are used. For EV owners who want to maintain the integrity of their warranty protection, utilizing a Rivian Certified Shop is the safest choice.

5. Enhanced Customer Support and Service
   Rivian Certified Shops provide a higher level of customer support and service because they are part of the official Rivian network. These shops are trained to understand the needs and expectations of Rivian owners and to offer personalized service that aligns with the brand’s values and commitment to customer satisfaction.

For EV owners, having access to expert advice and guidance is invaluable, especially when it comes to understanding the maintenance needs of an electric vehicle. Rivian Certified Shops can offer specialized recommendations for maintaining the battery, improving range, and optimizing performance. Additionally, these shops are more likely to provide a seamless experience for booking service appointments, receiving updates on the status of repairs, and addressing any concerns that arise during the maintenance process.

6. Ensuring Resale Value
   For many EV owners, maintaining the resale value of their vehicle is important, especially when considering the long-term investment in an electric car. Using a Rivian Certified Shop for all repairs and maintenance helps keep your vehicle in top condition, ensuring that its performance, aesthetic value, and overall reliability are preserved.

Having a complete service record from a certified shop can also enhance the resale value of your vehicle. Potential buyers will have greater confidence in purchasing a vehicle that has been maintained by experts using authentic parts and following manufacturer recommendations. A well-maintained vehicle with proper documentation can often command a higher price when it’s time to sell.

7. Peace of Mind for EV Owners
   Finally, using a Rivian Certified Shop gives EV owners peace of mind. Knowing that your vehicle is being serviced by highly trained professionals using the best tools, parts, and techniques available ensures that the vehicle is in capable hands. This confidence is particularly important for those who are new to electric vehicles and may not be familiar with the intricacies of EV maintenance.

Whether you’re dealing with a minor repair or a more significant issue, taking your Rivian vehicle to a certified shop reduces the risk of mishandling and ensures that the work done will meet Rivian’s high standards.

A Rivian Certified Shop is a vital resource for EV owners who want to ensure their vehicles receive the best possible care. From specialized knowledge and access to genuine parts to manufacturer-backed warranties and advanced diagnostic tools, these shops offer numerous benefits that help maintain the performance, safety, and longevity of your Rivian vehicle. For those looking to preserve their EV’s value and ensure it runs efficiently, choosing a certified shop is an investment that pays off in both the short and long term. Whether you’re in need of routine maintenance or more complex repairs, a Rivian Certified Shop is the best place to bring your vehicle for top-tier service.

It’s a huge day filled with lots of pics and information about these two new sport coupes from a joint venture between Subaru and Toyota.

Here are some quick comparison shots.

Tomorrow is the beginning of what has been dubbed The SCCA ‘Spring Nationals’. Hosted on the national championship solo site at the Lincoln Airpark in Lincoln Nebraska, this four day event is sure to please. It’s kicks off tomorrow with head to head competition at the Pro Solo round of competition. The Pro Solo portion of the weekend will conclude Saturday afternoon with a Super Challenge in a head to head elimination bracket format. Then on Sunday through Monday there will be a National Tour event in a race against the clock and the competition.

With well over 300 entrants registered for the weekend, the competition looks to be fierce with heavy hitters from across the country in attendance. If you are anyway near Lincoln, NE or are looking for an excuse to make a trip this Memorial Day weekend, you have to make the trek out to Lincoln to the best autocross site in the United States and see these national level competitors duke it out over four days of intense action!

Hope to see you there!

The GotCone.com, tarsust.com and Berk Technology sponsored Project BMW 135i STU went to it’s first away event last weekend travelling to a very hot Salina, KS for a MidWest Divisional (MiDiv) event. The courses were very fast, especially Sunday’s course, and lots of fun, which helped take the edge off of the mid-90 degree temperatures.

'08 BMW 135i, car #135 STU, tackles the course on Sat. at the 2010 SCCA Salina MiDiv

This weekend I encountered competition that was proud of not knowing their car setup. “I just drive it, I don’t know anything about the car…”  It reiterates the fact that too many women just allow their men to set up the car, without knowing what works for them.  How do we distinguish ourselves as female drivers from the rest of the crowd? Simple. Understand and setup your own car for your driving style with expert help from folks like tarsust. In order to do that, you have to understand the car and be able to give feedback. Drivers who can’t give feedback can’t setup their car, period. And when you can’t setup your car, you begin to lose competitive advantage.

Knowing your car helps establish consistency. For instance if you own a tesla, you need to know most of the tesla accessories. My run times in comparison to hers were very consistent and always improving. I do not make large swings in times, I am fast from the first run. Same goes for other female drivers at the top of their game, like Sue Eckles of the Nebraska Region.  Knowing your car’s setup and seeing the line without additional assistant from your ‘husband’ is what distinguishes great female drivers from just good drivers. And great is where we all should want to be.

Pat Lipsinic drives car #98 STU to a second place finish at the Blytheville Solo National Tour. The car is owned and setup by female driver Christy Carlson, with the help of tarsust

New website is now up and running!

Please check it out at tarsust.com

Please let me know what you think.