How to Install Character Mods in GTA 5 - Skin Replacement Guide 2025

How to Install Character Mods in GTA 5

Character mods (also called skin mods or ped mods) let you replace or add new character models to GTA 5. This guide covers all methods of installing character modifications.

Types of Character Mods

1. Player Replacement Mods

Replace Michael, Franklin, or Trevor with custom characters.

2. Ped Replacement Mods

Replace random NPCs with custom models.

3. Add-On Peds

Add new characters without replacing existing ones.

Requirements

  • OpenIV
  • Script Hook V (for some mods)
  • Add-On Peds mod (for add-on characters)
  • Menyoo or trainer (for spawning)

Method 1: Replace Player Character

  1. Download character mod
  2. Open OpenIV
  3. Navigate to: mods/update/x64/dlcpacks/patchday8ng/dlc.rpf/x64/models/cdimages/streamedpeds_players.rpf
  4. Enable Edit Mode
  5. Find the player you want to replace (player_zero = Michael, player_one = Franklin, player_two = Trevor)
  6. Replace .ydd and .ytd files
  7. Rebuild to save

Method 2: Using Add-On Peds

Installing Add-On Peds:

  1. Download AddonPeds from GTA5-Mods
  2. Install via OpenIV to dlcpacks
  3. Update dlclist.xml
  4. Copy AddonPeds.asi to GTA 5 root

Adding New Characters:

  1. Download add-on character
  2. Copy to AddonPeds/stream folder
  3. Edit AddonPeds.xml to register character
  4. Use trainer to spawn

Method 3: MP Freemode Character

  1. Download MP character mod
  2. Navigate to: mods/x64v.rpf/models/cdimages/streamedpeds_mp.rpf
  3. Replace mp_m_freemode_01 or mp_f_freemode_01

Popular Character Mods

  • Iron Man
  • Spider-Man
  • Batman
  • Real celebrities
  • Anime characters
  • Movie characters

Troubleshooting

Character invisible

Missing texture file (.ytd) - verify all files copied

Game crashes

Corrupted model or wrong format - re-download mod

Character glitchy

Incorrect bone structure - mod may need conversion

Conclusion

Character mods let you play as anyone in GTA 5. Follow this guide for successful installation!