In the dynamic world of GTA 5, customization is a major part of the game’s appeal. One of the most exciting features for vehicle enthusiasts is the use of hydraulics. These suspension systems allow you to lift and bounce your car, creating stylish moves and stunts that can be performed during driving or while parked. Whether you want to show off at a car meet or add flair to your vehicle, learning how to use hydraulics in GTA 5 will help you stand out in Los Santos. This guide covers everything you need to know, from installation to controls and tips for performing the best tricks.
Installing Hydraulics on Your Car
Choose a Compatible Vehicle
Not every car in GTA 5 can be fitted with hydraulics. This feature is mostly limited to lowriders and a few other customizable vehicles. You’ll want to pick one of the lowrider models, such as the Voodoo, Chino, Faction, or Buccaneer, which are compatible with the lowrider upgrade system introduced in the GTA Online Lowriders DLC.
Visit Benny’s Original Motor Works
Once you have a compatible car, drive it toBenny’s Original Motor Works. This custom shop specializes in lowrider modifications and is the only place where you can install hydraulics on select vehicles.
- Enter Benny’s while driving your compatible vehicle.
- Select the Upgrade option to convert your vehicle into a lowrider.
- Navigate to the ‘Hydraulics’ section in the modification menu.
- Choose the hydraulic system you prefer. Higher-end hydraulics provide better performance and more bounce.
After installation, your car will be equipped with a hydraulic suspension system, ready for action.
How to Activate and Control Hydraulics
Basic Controls for Hydraulics
Once your vehicle is equipped with hydraulics, controlling it is easy. The exact controls vary depending on your platform:
- PlayStation: Use the Left Analog Stick while holding down the X button.
- Xbox: Use the Left Analog Stick while holding down the A button.
- PC (keyboard): Hold Shift or X and use the arrow keys or NumPad keys (such as 2, 4, 6, and 8) to control the direction.
Hydraulics let you raise or lower each corner of the car, bounce up and down, and shift the car forward, backward, or side to side. Practice with different inputs to get used to how your car reacts to each motion.
Advanced Hydraulic Tricks
With some practice, you can perform advanced tricks with hydraulics, including:
- Hopping: Press the bounce button rhythmically to make your car hop up and down.
- Side Hops: Tilt the car to the left or right using the analog stick or directional keys to perform side hops.
- Three-Wheel Stance: Raise one side or corner of the car to ride on three wheels.
- Lowrider Dancing: Combine hops and side movements to create a flow or rhythm that mimics dancing.
These moves are especially useful during car meets or hydraulic competitions in GTA Online, where players often compete to show off the most stylish and well-controlled cars.
Using Hydraulics in GTA Online
Joining Car Meets
In GTA Online, hydraulics are often used in player-run car meets. These events are typically organized by the community and take place in parking lots, arenas, or garages around the map. Here’s how to get involved:
- Find or organize a car meet via your online crew or social channels.
- Customize your lowrider for maximum aesthetic and performance.
- Show up to the event and activate your hydraulics to demonstrate your ride’s capabilities.
Many meets include dance-offs or bounce challenges where players are judged on timing, rhythm, and creativity. Hydraulics can set you apart and make your vehicle the highlight of the event.
Participating in Lowrider Missions
There are also specific missions and events in GTA Online tied to the lowrider scene. These missions, available from Lamar or via the Lowriders update, often involve driving customized cars and using hydraulics during cutscenes or during objectives.
Make sure your vehicle is fully equipped with the best hydraulic system to ensure smooth operation during missions and to avoid any delay when activating the bounce or lift.
Tips for Better Control and Style
Practice in Safe Areas
It’s best to practice using hydraulics in a quiet location before trying them in front of others or during missions. Good spots include:
- Empty parking lots
- Your owned garage
- Deserted streets at night
This gives you room to learn without worrying about traffic or police interference.
Match Paint and Lights
Hydraulics look best when paired with visual upgrades. Customize your paint job, underglow lights, and interior to match the vibe of your bouncing lowrider. These additions make your hydraulic performance even more impressive.
Use Music for Timing
Playing a radio station or custom track while using hydraulics can help with rhythm and timing. Many players time their hops or dances to the beat of a song to add flair and style to their performance.
Common Problems and Fixes
Hydraulics Not Working
If your hydraulic system doesn’t respond, check the following:
- Ensure your vehicle is one that supports hydraulics.
- Confirm the installation at Benny’s was completed.
- Double-check the control scheme in your settings (especially on PC).
Restart the game or re-enter GTA Online if the issue continues. Sometimes it’s just a temporary glitch.
Vehicle Feels Unstable
Using hydraulics can make the vehicle feel more sensitive or bouncy during driving. This is normal, especially if the hydraulic system is set to high performance. Drive slowly or turn off the system when precision is needed.
Hydraulics and Showcasing Your Style
Becoming a Lowrider Legend
Using hydraulics in GTA 5 is more than just a technical feature it’s a form of expression. Car culture is alive and well in Los Santos, and hydraulics let you be part of that world. Whether you’re in single-player or GTA Online, your creativity and control can earn you respect among other car enthusiasts.
Experiment and Have Fun
Try different combinations of car models, hydraulic types, and customizations. See what kind of motion you can create. Don’t worry if your first few attempts feel awkward mastery comes with experimentation.
Learning how to use hydraulics in GTA 5 adds an exciting layer of personality and control to your gameplay experience. From installing them at Benny’s to performing jaw-dropping bounces and stylish movements, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re aiming to impress at a car meet or simply want to cruise around with flair, hydraulics give your car a unique edge. Keep practicing, keep customizing, and enjoy every lowrider moment in Los Santos.