Mods are an integral part of the Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator community. They allow you to add new trucks, cars, sounds, maps, and a host of other features to the game. If you’ve never installed a mod before or have run into issues, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll cover the two main installation methods and provide tips to help you avoid common problems.

The Golden Rule of Modding: Be Prepared

Before you begin, remember one crucial rule: always back up your game profile! This will help you avoid losing progress if something goes wrong. While most mods are safe, some can cause conflicts or crashes. Always read the mod description carefully, paying attention to its compatibility with the game version. Finally, always use the Mod Manager to activate and deactivate mods.

Method 1: Installing via the Steam Workshop

This is the easiest and most convenient method, perfect for beginners. The Steam Workshop automatically downloads and updates mods, which simplifies the process significantly.

1. Open the Game Page on Steam: Launch Steam, navigate to your library, and select either Euro Truck Simulator 2 or American Truck Simulator.
2. Go to the Workshop: On the game’s page, find the “Workshop” section.
3. Find Mods: Use the search bar and filters to find the mods you want.
4. Subscribe: On the mod’s page, simply click the “Subscribe” button. Steam will automatically download the mod, and it will appear in your in-game Mod Manager.

This method is the best way on how to install mods ETS2/ATS as it guarantees compatibility and provides quick access to popular content.

Method 2: Manual Installation of .scs Files

This method is used for mods that are not available on the Steam Workshop. They are usually downloaded from popular modding websites.

1. Download the Mod File: Find the desired modification and download the file with the .scs extension.
2. Find the “mod” Folder: Place the downloaded file into the mod folder in your game directory.
   • The path is usually: C:\Users\YourUserName\Documents\Euro Truck Simulator 2\mod or American Truck Simulator\mod.
3. Launch the Game and Activate the Mod: You can now access the Mod Manager, which is located on the profile selection screen.

Mod Manager and Load Order

The Mod Manager is your main tool. To activate a mod, double-click it in the left list, and it will move to the right. The most important concept here is the Load Order.

• The Rule of Priority: Mods at the top of the list have a higher priority.
• Tip: If you have a conflict between two mods, for example, two lighting mods, place the one with a higher priority (the one you want to use) higher in the list.

Troubleshooting and Best Practices

• Compatibility: Always check if a mod is compatible with your current game version. Incompatible mods can cause crashes.
• “One Mod at a Time”: If you’re installing multiple mods, activate them one by one. This will help you easily find the one that caused a problem.
• Blank Profile: For testing large mods, such as new maps, it is recommended to create a new profile without other active modifications. This ensures stable operation and eliminates potential conflicts.

By following these simple rules, you can easily install mods ETS2/ATS and enjoy all the new features. For downloading mods, you can visit the official SCS Software forums For any images you add to this article, please use alt attributes that include the keyphrase “how to install mods ETS2/ATS“.