The virtual world of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas offers players not only the execution of missions, but also a deep system of customization of transport. The ability to change the appearance and performance of the car is a key mechanic for many gamers seeking to create a unique vehicle. However, not all vehicles in the game are amenable to modification, which often raises questions for beginners.
The system of tuning in the game is tied to specific locations and models of machines. You need to find a special garage, such as TransFender, Loco Low Co. or Wheel Arch Angels. Each of these salons has its own set of available options and a list of supported cars, making the process of finding the right car a fascinating quest.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail which models are subject to improvement, what is the difference between the types of tuning and how to make the most of the available resources of the game world. Understanding these nuances will allow you to assemble the fastest or most shocking car to conquer the streets of San Andreas.
The main types of tuning studio in the game
Before you look for a specific model, it’s important to understand where you’re going. There are several garage networks in the game, and each of them specializes in a specific style of modifications. For example, TransFender It is a versatile salon available in all three cities in the state, where you can change almost everything from body color to engine.
On the other hand, Loco Low Co. He specializes in lowriders, hydraulic suspension cars that can jump and dance. These garages are located in residential areas of Los Santos and are focused on the culture of the West Coast of the United States. Type three, Wheel Arch AngelsThe yard is located only in San Fierro and offers exclusive kits in the style of JDM (Japanese domestic market).
If you arrive on a massive truck to the cabin for lowriders, the master will simply refuse to service the vehicle. Therefore, choosing the right place to upgrade is as important as choosing the car itself.
- 🏁 TransFender: Available in Los Santes (Johnson, Santa Maria), San Fierro (Docherti) and Las Venturas (center). It offers a full range of services.
- 🚙 Loco Low Co.: It is located in Los Santes (Jefferson, Villas). He specializes in hydraulics and lowrider style.
- 🇯🇵 Wheel Arch Angels: Located in San Fierro (Docherti). Unique bumpers, spoilers and hoods in Japanese style.
Universal cars for tuning
There is a category of machines that are accepted in all types of salons, including specialized ones. These are generally popular coupes and sedans that are the backbone of the car culture in the game. The most famous example is Sabre or Tahomawhich can be turned into both an aggressive racing car and a smooth lowrider.
These cars have a wide selection of spare parts. You can install a turbocharging, change the clearance, put the neon under the bottom and even completely repaint the body in any available color. For players who want to have one car for all occasions, choosing a universal model is the most rational solution.
However, it is worth considering that the popularity of these models means that they are often found in rival gangs or police. Uniquely such a car can only be due to rare combinations of discs and aerodynamic body kits, available only in certain locations.
- 🚗 Sabre: Classic coupe, available for all types of tuning, including hydraulics.
- 🚙 Tahoma: A four-door sedan, ideal for creating a family lowrider.
- 🏎️ Blade: Another representative of the classics, perfectly amenable to modifications in the West Coast style.
⚠️ Note: When hydraulic suspension is installed on all-purpose models in Loco Low Co. salons, standard suspension functions may change. Be careful when switching modes during movement.
Specialization in lowriders
The Lowrider culture is deeply rooted in the atmosphere of Los Santes. In order for the car to be considered a full-fledged lowrider, it must be able to install hydraulics. In garages. Loco Low Co. A number of models are available that will not be accepted in ordinary salons or will not offer full functionality there.
One of the most important models is Remington. This four-door sedan is designed specifically for slow driving on boulevards and hydraulics demonstrations. Unlike universal models, here the emphasis is on the interior, painting in three colors and complex patterns on the body.
It is also worth highlighting the model Slamvan. This is a pickup truck that has become a symbol of tuning culture in the game. It is available for tuning only in specialized lowrider salons and offers unique options such as the installation of powerful audio systems in the body and exclusive discs.
To control the hydraulics in these cars, a keyboard (numbers 1-9 and 0) or a gamepad is used. You can make the car jump, lean on its side or shake in place. It’s not just a visual effect, but also a mechanic used in some missions and minigames.
☑️ Checklist of the ideal lowrider
Japanese style in Wheel Arch Angels
Salon Wheel Arch Angels San Fierro is a pilgrimage destination for fans of Japanese automotive culture. Here, tuning is available for models that are focused on speed and drift, rather than smoothness. The main feature of this salon are unique body kits that can not be found anywhere else.
One of the best cars to visit this salon is Jester. This sports car is in reality an analogue of the Toyota Supra, and in the game it gets the appropriate attitude. Wide arches, aggressive bumpers and huge spoilers turn it into a real monster of the track.
Another remarkable model. Elegy. Although technically closer to the Nissan Skyline R32/R33, it is the base for a drift car in the context of the game. In WAA, specific hoods with air intakes and side skirts that change aerodynamics are available for it.
It is important to note that hydraulics cannot be installed in this cabin. The focus is shifted to performance and visual aggression. The discs here are also different from those in Los Santes - they are more sporty, cast, often larger in diameter.
- 🇯🇵 Jester: Sports coupe, ideal for aggressive styling and racing.
- 🏁 Elegy: The JDM classic is famous for its drifting capabilities and a wide selection of body kits.
- 🚀 ImportAlthough there is no such model, the WAA style is sharpened specifically for imported Japanese sports cars like the Sultan and Futo.
Secret Colors in Wheel Arch Angels
Wheel Arch Angels offers exclusive paint colors that are not available in TransFender. For example, matte shades and special pearls are only available after buying a garage in San Fierro and visiting the place.
Comparative table of tuning capabilities
To make it easier for you to navigate in a huge number of options, we have prepared a summary table. It shows the differences in the availability of modifications for different types of cars and salons. This will help you plan a visit to the garage and not waste time on inappropriate options.
Note that some options, such as nitroaccelerator (NOS) installation or suspension height change, may be available in different locations, but will look different. For example, nitro in the lowrider is often masked, and in the sports car is exposed.
| Model car | TransFender | Loco Low Co. | Wheel Arch Angels | Main style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sabre | Full access | Hydraulics + Style | No. | Lowrider/Classic |
| Jester | Basic tuning | No. | Full Access (WAA) | Sport/JDM |
| Slamvan | No. | Full access | No. | Pickup/Louraider |
| Remington | Basic tuning | Full access | No. | Sedan/Louraider |
| Super GT | Full access | No. | No. | Supercar |
⚠️ Warning: Attempting to drive a non-hydraulics-supporting car (such as a Super GT) into the Loco Low Co. cabin. This will lead to denial of service. The master will not even open the menu of the selection of details.
Technical aspects and hidden opportunities
Tuning in GTA San Andreas is not only the appearance, but also the technical characteristics. Improvements in engine, brakes and suspension directly affect the behavior of the car on the road. The maximum upgrade level (Level 3) is only available after certain conditions have been met or after a garage has been purchased.
It is interesting to note that some changes affect the physics of the car. Installation of large discs can slightly change the grip on the road, and changing the clearance on the lowrider allows you to pass under lowered barriers or, conversely, get stuck on irregularities.
For advanced users, there is the possibility of using mods, but within the framework of pure play (Vanilla) the possibilities are also great. For example, the combination of certain colors in Paint Jobs It can create an effect that mimics carbon or chromium, which is highly valued in virtual exhibitions.
Don't forget the interior. In some models, especially in low-riders, you can completely change the cabin: put new seats, steering wheel and even add TVs. This makes the trip from the inside much more enjoyable, especially if you like to ride in the first person.
Save money for Level 3 upgrades. The coolest parts (maximum engine level, unique drives) are often the most expensive and require the full amount at once. Don’t spend your budget on intermediate improvements if the goal is to maximize productivity.
The best car to start in tuning is the Sabre or Tahoma. They forgive mistakes, are cheap to buy and maintain, and allow you to try out all the mechanics of the game: from racing to hydraulics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use the GTA San Andreas motorcycle?
In the original version of the game (Vanilla) tuning motorcycles are absent. You can only repaint them in some salons (like Loco Low Co.). Colors are available for the NRG-500, but you can’t change the body kits, wheels or engine. This feature only appeared in mobile versions and the Definitive Edition remaster.
Where to find rare discs for tuning?
Rare discs such as Daytons, Wire Wheels or TwistOpen automatically when visiting the relevant salons. TransFender has a wider range, but unique spoke discs are only available at Loco Low Co., while sport discs are available at Wheel Arch Angels.
Does the car’s stealing affect the car?
Yeah, it's indirectly. Uniquely painted machines (with custom painting) can not be hijacked by NPC-sniki unless you have left them. However, if you drop a custom-colored car on the street, it may disappear (a new one will sleep), but the police won't pay much attention to it until you break the law. The unique color also protects against accidental theft if you park your car outside your home.
How to open all the details of tuning?
All the details are opened simply by visiting salons and accumulating money. However, some exclusive colors and options are only available after the protagonist (CJ) has bought his garage in San Fierro or completed certain salon assignments (e.g., races at TransFender).