Clearing the FiveM cache is the first thing to try when the game crashes, hangs on the loading screen, or refuses to download server content. Corrupted cached assets cause a huge share of FiveM problems. Here is how to clear it safely.
Where the FiveM Application Data Lives
FiveM stores its files in your user application data folder. The path is typically under your local app data, in a FiveM application data folder. Inside it you will find the data folder that holds cached server content and settings.
To get there quickly on Windows, open the run dialog and enter the app data path, or browse to your user folder and into the FiveM directory.
What to Clear and What to Keep
The cache folder holds downloaded server resources, which are safe to delete because they redownload when you rejoin a server. Be careful not to delete files that store your settings or key bindings unless you intend to reset them.
The safest target is the server-cache and cache subfolders inside the FiveM data directory. Removing these forces a clean redownload of server content.
How to Clear the Cache
- Fully close FiveM
- Open the FiveM application data folder
- Open the data folder inside it
- Delete the cache and server-cache folders
- Relaunch FiveM and rejoin your server
The next time you connect, FiveM redownloads the server assets fresh, which fixes most corrupted asset problems.
When Clearing Cache Helps
This fix resolves a long list of issues, including crashes on join, a loading screen that never finishes, server assets that fail to download, texture and model errors, and outdated cached content after a server update.
If Clearing Cache Does Not Work
If problems continue after a cache clear, try these steps:
- Verify your GTA V game files through Steam, Epic, or Rockstar
- Update your graphics drivers
- Update FiveM to the latest version
- Temporarily disable client mods like ReShade to rule them out
- Check that your antivirus is not blocking FiveM
A clean reinstall of FiveM is the last resort, and it keeps your GTA V installation intact since FiveM is separate.
Tips
Clear the cache after a server you play on pushes a big update, since stale cached files often cause errors. Keep client mods minimal to reduce conflicts.
FAQ
Does clearing the FiveM cache delete my settings? Only if you delete the settings files. Clearing the cache and server-cache folders keeps your settings.
Will I have to redownload server content? Yes, and that is the point. Fresh downloads fix corrupted assets.
Where is the FiveM cache folder? In your local app data, inside the FiveM application data folder, under the data directory.
Related: FiveM server artifacts build guide, How to install FiveM mods, How to make a FiveM server