Subtle but consistent cabin noise in R2?

[RivianPGH]

Just brought my R2 into service for a couple odds and ends and included this noise on the list as I also hear it and it unfortunately bothers me. Best way I can describe it is that it sounds like a compressor hum with a 4hz watch movement tick. Its the rythmic ticking that makes it so evident and annoying for me. Service check-in employee sat in the car and did hear it. I did a reset of the car software to give reference to it being gone when the car momentarily turns off and when it returns during the boot sequence. We sat in a couple demo R2s that they had to see if we could observe the noise in them. The sound was easily perceptible in both demo cars and the sound signature was similar between all R2 examples. Service employee was skeptical of what actual technicians would be able to do since it is subtle and the characteristic was consistent accross all cars. I was presented the option to leave the car with them and do a diagnostic but I agreed with the service employees outlook. Doesnt seem like there is much at this point the technicians would be able to do.

Thinking of digging a bit deeper to see if I can determine which exact component is producing the sound. More for my own curiousity than anything else. My guess is that a component of the hvac system, like a coolant pump, ambiently makes this noise and that all replacements for it would as well. Maybe with enough information (and enough complaints) it will end up in a hydraulic jounce line situation like for R1 where a redesigned part is produced that eliminates all (or most) of the noise.

I had a similar discussion when I was at the service center for an unrelated issue. I had the advisor sit in the car with me and he could of course hear the noise. He figured it was probably something related to battery cooling and apparently had the tech check it out and confirm it’s a compressor noise. I didn’t have time to check the demo units so I’m glad you were able to confirm that seemingly all R2s make this sound.

The noise does bother me a bit too even though AC or music typically drowns it out- I think I’m spoiled by all the other EVs I’ve owned being silent when stationary with the HVAC off.

Still just a nit to pick with an overall great car.

Sponsored