How to Mod GTA 5 on PC (2025): A Complete Beginner’s Guide

How to Mod GTA 5 on PC (2025 Guide)

Modding GTA 5 on PC can dramatically change how you experience the game, from stunning visuals to chaotic gameplay. However, before jumping into the world of GTA 5 mods, you’ll need a few tools and precautions to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here’s your updated guide to getting started safely and efficiently.

Initial Setup Before Modding GTA 5

Before installing any mods, make sure your game is ready. Skipping this step could lead to file corruption or a potential Rockstar ban.

1. Backup Your Game Folder
Create a copy of your GTA V directory to avoid losing important game data.

• Go to your installation path (commonly C:\Program Files\Rockstar Games\Grand Theft Auto V).
• Copy the entire folder to another drive or rename it as GTA5_Backup.
• Ensure you have 150GB of free storage to accommodate the backup.

2. Disable BattlEye Anticheat
You must turn off Rockstar’s anticheat to use third-party scripts.

• Delete GTA5_BE.exe from the main folder.
• Alternatively, launch Rockstar Launcher → Settings → General → Uncheck BattlEye.

Installing Script Hook V (Core Requirement)

Script Hook V is the fundamental tool that allows GTA V to run custom scripts and mods.

• Download the official version of Script Hook V.
• Extract and place ScriptHookV.dll, dinput8.dll, and NativeTrainer.asi in the GTA V directory.
• Use args.txt to auto-disable BattlEye, though manual disabling is still recommended.

Once in-game, press F4 to open the Native Trainer, allowing features like spawning vehicles or activating invincibility.

Enhancing Graphics with VisualV

If you’re tired of outdated visuals, VisualV brings GTA V into 2025 with improved lighting, textures, and weather.

Steps to Install VisualV:

• Download CodeWalker (dev48 or newer) and OpenRPF.
• Inside your GTA V Enhanced folder:
  • Create a mods/update folder.
  • Copy update.rpf from the base game to the new location.
• Download VisualV and extract its contents.
• Use CodeWalker to manually transfer the VisualV files into mods/update/update.rpf.

Mods like GTA V Remake and Clouds V are also worth exploring for visual overhaul.

Adding GTA V Gameplay Mods

For players who want more than visuals, gameplay mods add mechanics, features, and entirely new worlds.

Installing FiveM for RP and Custom Servers

FiveM allows access to custom RP servers and server-specific mods.

Installation Steps:

• Download the FiveM client from the official site.
• Run setup and locate GTA5.exe in your install directory.
• Allow any updates and login via Rockstar Social Club.
• Launch FiveM and join servers, which will auto-download server-side mods.

Note: Some servers restrict certain client-side mods, so always check the server rules.

Installing Chaos Mod for Random Events

The Chaos Mod introduces unpredictable in-game events, ranging from exploding pedestrians to gravity changes.

To install:

• Download Chaos Mod V from GTA5-Mods.
• Extract the .zip contents to a new folder.
• Copy files into the GTA V installation directory.
• Launch the game, and Chaos Mod will automatically activate.

You can customize events using the ChaosModV config file for a more controlled experience.

Is It Safe to Mod GTA 5?

Single-player mods are safe according to Rockstar’s 2015 statement.

“No one has been banned for using single-player modifications.”

However, using mods or trainers in GTA Online can trigger automatic bans, especially if the system detects mod menu injections.

• Avoid online mod menus.
• Stick to trainers like Native Trainer for solo gameplay.
• Always source mods from trusted websites like GTA5-Mods.com to avoid malware.

Conclusion: Should You Mod GTA 5?

If you’re bored of vanilla gameplay or looking to explore the game in a new light, modding GTA 5 is a game-changer.
From ultra-realistic graphics to chaotic mods like FiveM and Chaos, the options are endless.
Just remember to mod responsibly, back up your files, and avoid anything risky in online play.

Have you tried GTA 5 modding yet? Let us know your favorite mods in the comments!