How to Install GTA 5 Mods – Complete 2025 Guide for PC and Console Players
Installing GTA 5 mods can transform your game, adding new vehicles, weapons, maps, graphics, scripts, and gameplay features. Whether you want a realistic Los Santos with ultra HD textures or new missions and custom content, this step-by-step guide will show you how to install Grand Theft Auto 5 mods safely and effectively on PC (and explain what’s possible on consoles).
⚠️ Important: Always back up your original game files before installing mods. GTA 5 mods are not allowed in GTA Online and can result in a ban if used there. Keep mods for single-player only.
1. Download GTA 5 Mods
Find a trusted GTA 5 mods site (such as gta5-mods.com) and download your chosen mod. Save all your mods in one dedicated folder for better organization.
2. Extract the Mod Files
Most mods come in a .zip or .rar archive. Use extraction tools like WinRAR or 7-Zip to unpack them into a new folder.
3. Locate Your GTA 5 Installation Folder
For Steam, the default path is usually:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Grand Theft Auto V
Look for files like GTAV.exe and bink2w64.dll to confirm you’re in the right location.
4. Install Mods Manually or Using OpenIV
Manual Method: Copy and paste the mod files into your GTA 5 root folder, replacing or adding files as instructed.
OpenIV Method: Download and install OpenIV – a free tool that makes modding easier and safer. OpenIV supports .oiv package files for one-click installations and provides a dedicated mods folder so original files remain untouched.
5. Installing Different Types of GTA 5 Mods
A) Resource Replacement Mods (vehicles, peds, maps)
- Use OpenIV to replace original game files.
- Follow the mod author’s instructions exactly, as file locations vary.
B) Resource Add-On Mods (DLC-style content)
- Place files in:
GTAV_root/mods/update/x64/dlcpacks/<mod name>/dlc.rpf - Add the mod entry to:
GTAV_root/mods/update/update.rpf/common/data/dlclist.xml - Example:
<Item>dlcpacks:\<mod name>\</Item> - Update gameconfig.xml if using many add-ons.
C) .OIV Package Mods
- Double-click the .oiv file to launch the OpenIV installer.
- Follow prompts and confirm installation.
D) Script Mods
Scripts add missions, gameplay features, trainers, and more. They require specific loaders:
- ScriptHookV (.asi) – Place in GTA 5 root folder.
- ScriptHookVDotNet (.dll, .cs, .vb) – Place in GTAV_root/scripts/.
- RAGEPluginHook (.dll) – Place in GTAV_root/Plugins/.
6. Configure Mod Settings
Some mods include .ini configuration files. Open these in a text editor to adjust settings like FOV, controls, or spawn options.
7. Launch GTA 5 in Single Player
Start the game and test the mod. If it doesn’t work, double-check the installation path and mod requirements.
8. Keep Mods Updated
Mod authors often release updates for compatibility with the latest GTA 5 patches. Regularly check your mod sources for updates.
9. Modding on Consoles
Modding is officially unsupported on PlayStation and Xbox versions of GTA 5. Any mods you see on console marketplaces are typically cosmetic or official DLCs – not user-created PC-style mods.
Installing GTA 5 mods in 2025 is easier than ever thanks to OpenIV, ScriptHookV, and a thriving modding community. With the right setup, you can turn Los Santos into anything you imagine, just mod smart, mod safe, and keep backups.
