How to Replace a Server Side Vehicle in FiveM

Adding custom vehicle models to your FiveM server is a great way to personalize the experience and bring in fresh, realistic cars. Swapping out default GTA V vehicles or modifying existing ones can make your server feel more unique and engaging. This guide will walk you through the process to ensure everything is set up and working smoothly.

Note: Be sure that your FiveM server is fully stopped before making any configuration changes or setting updates!

Download the Custom Vehicle Model

1. Visit a trusted FiveM modding website, such as:

   • GTA5-Mods

   • FiveM Forums

   • GTAinside

2. Search for a vehicle replacement mod compatible with FiveM and download it.

Vehicle Files Format

Inside the downloaded zip/rar, you should see the following file types:

• .yft (vehicle model files)

• .ytd (vehicle texture file)

• .hi.yft (high-resolution model)

• vehicles.meta, carvariations.meta, handling.meta (if provided)

Upload your Vehicle Files

1. Navigate to the Server Files tab in your Nodecraft Control Panel

2. Open the resources folder.

3. For organizational purposes, create a folder called [cars]

4. Inside that folder create another folder and name it something that'll be easy to recognize the models you're replacing, for our example, we'll use bmw

5. In the bmw folder, we'll need to create another folder called stream.

6. Also, in the bmw folder, create a file called fxmanifest.lua (In the past it was previously called, __resource.lua so you may see other guides/instructions with that name).

7. Inside the fxmanifest.lua file, add the following code, and Save:

   resource_manifest_version '44febabe-d386-4d18-afbe-5e627f4af937'
   
   files {
   	'data/carcols.meta',
   	'data/carvariations.meta',
   	'data/handling.meta',
   	'data/vehicles.meta',
       --'data/contentunlocks.meta',
       --'data/vehiclelayouts.meta',
       --'data/shop_vehicle.meta',
   }
   
   
   data_file 'CARCOLS_FILE' 'data/carcols.meta'
   data_file 'VEHICLE_VARIATION_FILE' 'data/carvariations.meta'
   data_file 'HANDLING_FILE' 'data/handling.meta'
   data_file 'VEHICLE_METADATA_FILE' 'data/vehicles.meta'
   
   --data_file 'CONTENT_UNLOCKING_META_FILE' 'data/contentunlocks.meta'
   --data_file 'VEHICLE_LAYOUTS_FILE' 'data/vehiclelayouts.meta'
   --data_file 'VEHICLE_SHOP_DLC_FILE' 'data/shop_vehicle.meta'
   
   
   --client_script { 'client/vehicle_name.lua' }

8. Upload into the stream folder the .ytd and .yft files for the vehicle.

Add the Vehicle to Server Configuration

1. Open server.cfg (found in the main FiveM server directory).

2. Add the following line at the end of the file:
   ensure [foldername]
   Ex: ensure bmw
   Replace the "foldername" with the folder you created for yours.

3. Save and close the file.

4. Start your FiveM server.

5. Spawn an ELS-enabled vehicle using whatever spawning method you prefer.

Troubleshooting

1. If the vehicle does not appear or looks broken, check the following:

   • Ensure .yft and .ytd files are correctly placed in the stream folder.

   • Verify that the vehicle spawn name matches vehicles.meta.

   • Check the server Console for error messages.

2. If the handling feels off, adjust handling.meta values accordingly.

3. If textures appear blurry or missing, ensure the .ytd file is not corrupt or too large.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully replace vehicle models in your FiveM server, allowing players to enjoy custom cars and a more immersive experience. If you encounter issues, double-check file placements and configurations. Now, enjoy driving your new custom vehicles! 🚗🔥

Need Help?

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