How to Use ZModeler3 for FiveM Vehicle Modding

Learn how to import, edit, and export GTA V vehicle models with ZModeler3 to create custom FiveM add‑on cars in this step‑by‑step guide—no prior 3D modeling experience required!

1. Install and Configure ZModeler3

• Download the latest ZModeler3 installer from the official site and run the setup.
• Launch ZModeler3 and go to Options → Settings.
• Set your GTA V game folder path.
• Under Plugins, enable the GTA V (FiveM) exporter.

2. Importing GTA V Vehicle Models

1. Click File → Import and select the vehicle’s .yft file from:
   %GTA V%\update\x64\dlcpacks\[vehicle_name]\dlc.rpf\x64\levels\gta5\vehicles\
2. Also import related .ytd (textures) and _hi.yft (collision/LOD) files when prompted.
3. Verify the hierarchy: body mesh, LOD meshes, collision mesh, skeleton.

3. Basic Editing Workflow

• Rescale: Use the Scale tool (press R) to adjust vehicle size.
• Materials & Textures:
  • Open the Material Editor and reassign textures from .ytd files.
  • Import custom liveries by adding new .ytd sheets.
• Collisions:
  • Switch to the collision mesh (_hi model).
  • Use Edit Mesh → Separate Elements to isolate and fix stray faces.
  • Clean up stray vertices and flipped normals.

4. Exporting for FiveM

1. Go to File → Export and choose the GTA V (FiveM) Add-on preset.
2. In the export dialog, check Export Geometry, Export Materials, and Export Bones. Enable Generate LOD if needed.
3. Save the folder structure as shown below:[customcar] ├── stream │ ├── customcar.yft │ ├── customcar_hi.yft │ └── customcar.ytd ├── data │ ├── vehicles.meta │ ├── handling.meta │ └── carvariations.meta └── fxmanifest.lua

5. Testing and Troubleshooting

• Upload the folder to your resources directory and add ensure customcar to server.cfg.
• Spawn the vehicle in‑game using your preferred spawn tool.
• Common Issues:
  • Missing Textures: Reopen in ZModeler and verify texture paths.
  • Physics Errors: Adjust the collision mesh to remove overlapping faces.
  • LOD Pop‑in: Regenerate or tweak LOD export settings.

Excerpt

Learn how to import, edit, and export GTA V cars with ZModeler3 for FiveM. This guide covers installation, basic edits, collision fixes, and testing your add‑on vehicles.