If you want a three‑row adventure SUV with supercar acceleration and serious off‑road chops, a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S is probably on your radar. Buying used can save you tens of thousands of dollars versus new, but with an EV this advanced, you need to understand batteries, software, and warranty coverage before you sign anything.
Quick take
A used or certified Rivian R1S can be a fantastic value if you buy with eyes wide open: focus on battery health, warranty transfer, recall status, and how the first owner actually used and charged the vehicle.
Why consider a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S?
Key reasons shoppers look for a CPO Rivian R1S
You’re not just buying a big electric SUV, you’re buying a rugged, software‑defined platform.
True do‑everything SUV
The R1S seats up to seven, tows up to 7,700 pounds, and has serious ground clearance and off‑road modes. It’s one of the few fully electric family SUVs that can credibly replace a Land Cruiser or Range Rover in daily life.
Huge performance envelope
Even the dual‑motor versions are quick, with 0–60 mph around the mid‑4‑second range. Tri‑motor Max‑pack models can dip under 3 seconds, supercar acceleration in a three‑row SUV.
Depreciation works in your favor
Like most luxury EVs, the R1S sees steep early depreciation. That’s painful for first owners, but it’s exactly why a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S can deliver a lot of vehicle per dollar if you choose carefully.
The catch is complexity. The R1S is packed with air suspension, advanced driver assistance, over‑the‑air software, and one of the most sophisticated EV powertrains on the road. A badge that simply says “certified” isn’t enough, you need to understand what’s behind it, especially for battery health and safety recalls.
Rivian R1S trims, batteries, and real‑world range
Before you evaluate any used or certified R1S, get clear on which generation and configuration you’re looking at. Rivian has already rolled out a second‑generation R1 platform for the 2025 model year with new battery chemistries and motor options, and earlier trucks had different pack sizes and quad‑motor options.
2025 Rivian R1S: headline specs by configuration
Numbers are EPA estimates or manufacturer claims; real‑world range will vary with speed, temperature, tires, and load.
| Configuration | Battery pack | EPA range (approx.) | 0–60 mph (approx.) | Notable traits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dual Motor Standard | ~92.5 kWh LFP | ≈258–270 mi | ≈4.5 s | Most affordable; LFP chemistry favors durability and daily fast‑charging. |
| Dual Motor Large | ~109.4 kWh | ≈329–330 mi | ≈3.4–4.5 s | Strong balance of price, range, and performance. |
| Dual Motor Max | ~141.5 kWh | Up to ≈410 mi | ≈3.4–4.5 s | Best long‑range choice for road trips and towing. |
| Tri‑Motor Max | ~140–141.5 kWh | ≈371 mi | ≈2.8–2.9 s | Brutally quick; performance‑oriented with still‑solid range. |
Understanding which R1S you’re buying is step one before comparing used prices.
Model‑year nuance matters
A 2022 quad‑motor R1S with the older Large pack is a different animal from a 2025 dual‑motor Max truck, both in performance and efficiency. Always verify the exact battery pack and motor configuration from the build sheet or vehicle info screen, not just the seller’s description.
On the highway at 70–75 mph, owners typically report 20–30% less range than the optimistic best‑case numbers, especially on 22‑inch wheels or with a roof box. That’s not a defect, that’s just how aerodynamics and speed work on a tall, boxy SUV. When you test‑drive a used R1S, watch how the projected range responds to your driving style and typical speeds.
What does “certified pre-owned” actually mean for EVs?
In the gas‑car world, certified pre‑owned usually means a factory‑backed inspection, some reconditioning standards, and an extended warranty. In the EV world, and especially for relatively young brands like Rivian, the picture is messier. Different sellers use “certified” to mean very different things.
OEM or factory‑backed certification
A manufacturer program typically includes:
- A multi‑point inspection focused on safety and software.
- Standards for tread depth, brake life, and cosmetic condition.
- Some amount of extended warranty, sometimes with separate battery coverage.
- Access to official service history and completed recall work.
Rivian’s direct‑to‑consumer model gives it deep visibility into service history, but coverage details and availability can change over time and may differ by state.
Dealer or marketplace “certified”
Independent dealers and marketplaces often apply their own label:
- Checklists that may focus more on cosmetics than EV‑specific health.
- Third‑party service contracts instead of OEM extended warranty.
- Limited or no direct access to factory telematics or detailed battery data.
This isn’t necessarily bad, but you have to read the fine print and make sure someone is actually measuring real battery capacity, not just clearing warning lights.
Don’t assume “certified” includes the battery
On an EV, the battery pack is the single most expensive component. Some certification programs lean heavily on cosmetic reconditioning and light mechanical work but provide little transparency into actual battery state‑of‑health. Always ask what data the seller can share and how it was measured.
Battery health: what really matters on a used R1S
Rivian’s packs have generally held up well so far, but they’re also heavy, complex, and expensive to replace. When you’re evaluating a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S, you’re really evaluating two things: total usable capacity left in the pack and how the pack has been treated in daily use.
Battery health and real‑world value
How to sanity‑check R1S battery health before you buy
1. Compare displayed range to EPA or original spec
Fully charge the R1S (or as close as practical) and compare the projected 100% range in the vehicle to what that trim was rated at new. A bit of drop is normal; large gaps deserve questions.
2. Review DC fast‑charging history
High‑mileage vehicles that lived on DC fast charging aren’t automatically bad, but you want to know how often they were charged from very low state‑of‑charge to high levels at high power.
3. Ask for third‑party battery diagnostics
Look for a <strong>pack‑level health report</strong>, not just a generic OBD scan. Tools like the Recharged Score use dedicated diagnostics to estimate true usable capacity and highlight pack imbalances.
4. Check for pack‑related service or recalls
Confirm that any relevant Rivian service campaigns or recalls affecting the pack, high‑voltage system, or suspension (which can impact range and safety) have been completed.
5. Test in your real conditions
If you live in a cold climate or tow frequently, try to replicate those conditions on the test drive. Watch how quickly rated range drops and whether the vehicle preconditions the pack properly for DC fast charging.
How Recharged approaches battery health
Every vehicle listed on Recharged includes a Recharged Score Report with verified battery diagnostics. Instead of trusting a generic “certified” label, you see a quantified estimate of remaining capacity, recent charging behavior, and any high‑voltage fault history we can detect.
Warranty coverage on certified and used R1S SUVs
Rivian, like most EV makers, separates basic vehicle warranty from high‑voltage component coverage. Exact terms vary by model year and state, but generally you’ll see a shorter bumper‑to‑bumper warranty and a longer warranty that covers the battery and drive units.
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Typical warranty layers to consider on a used R1S
Always verify details for the specific VIN and in your state.
Basic & drivetrain coverage
Original basic warranties on R1S trucks cover things like electronics, interior trim, suspension, and non‑wear components for a set number of years and miles. Coverage may be partially transferable to the second owner depending on age and mileage.
High‑voltage battery & drive units
EV battery and motor coverage typically extends longer, often around eight years with a mileage cap, aimed at protecting against manufacturing defects. This doesn’t mean zero degradation; it usually kicks in if usable capacity drops below a defined threshold or if there’s an outright failure.
Three warranty questions to ask every seller
1) What factory warranty is left on this specific VIN? 2) Does certification add any factory‑backed coverage, or is it a third‑party service contract? 3) Are there transfer fees or hoops to jump through if I’m not buying directly from Rivian?
Pricing: how much does a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S cost?
Used Rivian pricing moves quickly as incentives, new‑vehicle discounts, and interest rates shift. Early‑build 2022–2023 R1S models have already taken a sizable depreciation hit, while fresh‑off‑the‑line second‑generation trucks still command a premium, especially with the Max pack or tri‑motor setup.
How different used R1S configurations typically stack up
These relationships tend to hold even as absolute prices move up or down with the broader market.
| Configuration | Mileage band | Relative price vs. new | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022–2023 Dual Motor, Large pack | 25k–50k mi | ≈25–35% below comparable new | Strong value sweet spot if battery health and warranty check out. |
| 2022–2023 Quad Motor, Large pack | 25k–60k mi | ≈20–30% below comparable new tri/quad | Performance halo helps resale; look closely at tire and brake wear. |
| 2024–2025 Dual Motor, Max pack | <25k mi | ≈10–20% below new | Road‑trip and towing buyers pay extra for 400+ miles of range. |
| 2025 Tri‑Motor Max | <20k mi | ≈5–15% below new | Small pool of vehicles; certification and warranty terms matter more than squeezing the last dollar. |
Think in terms of relative price bands rather than fixating on a single “book value.”
Pay for condition, not just spec
Two seemingly identical R1S SUVs on paper can have very different true costs of ownership. A cheaper truck with a tired pack, worn tires, and gaps in service may cost more over five years than a slightly pricier unit with strong battery diagnostics and documented care.
Inspection checklist for a used or certified R1S
Hands‑on checks every R1S buyer should make
1. Suspension height and ride quality
Cycle through the air‑suspension height settings and drive over mixed pavement. Listen for clunks, and check for any “suspension fault” messages. Mis‑torqued suspension components have triggered recalls in the R1 family; you want confirmation that any related campaigns are done.
2. Panel gaps, seals, and water ingress
Early Rivians improved over time, but this is still a new automaker. Inspect door and hatch seals, look for water marks in the cargo areas, and run the vehicle through a car wash if the seller allows it.
3. Software version and error history
Open the settings menu and confirm the vehicle is on current software. Look for dashboard warnings or repeated alerts during your test drive. Ask the seller for any history of bricking, no‑start events, or repeated OTA failures.
4. Charging behavior on Level 2
If possible, plug into a 240V Level 2 charger and confirm the R1S charges at the expected rate. Unusual noises, rapid cycling of the contactors, or repeated charge faults are red flags.
5. Interior wear and kids/dogs reality check
Adventure‑oriented families are the R1S core buyer. Check second‑ and third‑row carpets, seatbacks, and the cargo floor carefully for damage from strollers, bikes, or pets.
6. Tow package and off‑road use
If the vehicle has towed regularly or seen heavy off‑roading, that’s not an automatic deal‑breaker, but inspect the hitch, underbody shields, and suspension closely and factor that usage into your negotiation.
Charging, road trips, and ownership costs
One of the biggest selling points of the R1S is that it doesn’t feel like a compromise road‑trip vehicle. With the Max pack you’re looking at up to roughly 400 miles of rated range, and even the Large pack can be a very capable highway cruiser with smart planning.
Three charging questions to answer before you buy
A used R1S can be a joy, or a hassle, depending on your charging reality.
Do you have reliable home Level 2?
Hardwiring a 240V charger or using a suitably rated outlet dramatically improves the R1S ownership experience. Relying on DC fast charging for daily use is costly and harder on the battery.
What fast‑charging networks do you use?
Rivian’s own Adventure Network continues to build out, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network is evolving via NACS and adapter support. Check which connectors your specific R1S supports today, not just in theory.
How often do you tow or drive long distances?
Range drops significantly with high speeds, headwinds, roof boxes, or heavy trailers. If you tow frequently, consider the Max pack and budget extra time for fast‑charge stops.
Watch the total cost of ownership picture
Insurance for a new‑to‑market luxury EV, high‑performance tires, and potential out‑of‑warranty repairs can add up. Don’t let a low monthly payment blind you to the long‑term cost of keeping a 7,000‑pound adventure SUV on the road.
How Recharged helps you buy a better R1S
The used EV market is still catching up to the complexity of vehicles like the R1S. Traditional dealers know how to check for oil leaks and timing belts; they’re not always equipped to interpret pack telemetry or fast‑charging behavior. That’s exactly the gap Recharged is built to fill.
What you get when you shop a used Rivian R1S through Recharged
Less guesswork, more verified data.
Recharged Score battery diagnostics
Every vehicle includes a Recharged Score Report that summarizes battery health, charging patterns, and any high‑voltage fault history we can detect. You see a clear, data‑driven view instead of relying on seller assurances.
Transparent pricing, trade‑in, and financing
Recharged pairs fair‑market pricing with tools to trade in your current vehicle, get an instant offer or consignment option, and pre‑qualify for financing online with a fully digital experience and nationwide delivery.
Guided from first click to delivery
Whether you’re cross‑shopping a certified pre-owned Rivian R1S against other used EVs or you already know exactly what you want, Recharged’s EV‑specialist team can walk you through battery reports, warranty implications, and charging strategy so you’re confident before the truck ever shows up in your driveway.
FAQ: certified pre-owned Rivian R1S
Common questions about certified pre-owned Rivian R1S SUVs
A certified pre-owned Rivian R1S can be an outstanding way to get into a cutting‑edge electric adventure SUV for far less than new, but certification alone isn’t a magic shield. Focus on battery health, remaining warranty, recall completion, and how the first owner actually used the vehicle. Pair that with transparent diagnostics and expert support, whether through a factory program or a specialized marketplace like Recharged, and you’ll be in a much better position to enjoy the R1S for what it is: one of the most capable, future‑leaning family vehicles on the road today.
