Unlock Hao's Upgrades in GTA Online's LS Car Meet

For fans of Grand Theft Auto Online, the Los Santos Car Meet has become a central hub for all things automotive. Within this bustling underground scene, a figure named Hao has emerged as the go-to expert for pushing vehicles beyond their factory specifications. Hao's Special Works, as his service is known, offers a unique array of performance enhancements and visual customisations that can transform your ordinary rides into extraordinary machines. This guide will delve into who Hao is, where to find his exclusive workshop, and the myriad of services he provides to elevate your GTA Online car experience.

Who is Hao?

Hao, in the context of GTA Online, is a highly skilled automotive tuner who specialises in advanced vehicle modifications. His expertise was initially showcased on current-generation consoles (PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S) with the release of the Enhanced version of GTA Online. He's not just a mechanic; he's an innovator, dedicated to extracting the absolute maximum performance from vehicles. Hao's passion for speed and customisation is evident in every upgrade he offers, making him a pivotal character for players seeking the ultimate edge in races and street challenges.

What is the LS Car Meet?

The Los Santos Car Meet (LS Car Meet) is an in-game social space within GTA Online, introduced as part of the 'Los Santos Tuners' update. It serves as a dedicated area where players can showcase their custom vehicles, socialise with other car enthusiasts, participate in various races and challenges, and access a range of tuning services. The LS Car Meet is essentially a garage and social club rolled into one, fostering a vibrant community around vehicle customisation and competitive driving. It’s within this environment that Hao operates his exclusive workshop.

Where to Find Hao's Workshop

Hao's Workshop is integrated into the LS Car Meet location. To access it, players need to head to the LS Car Meet facility, typically located in Cypress Flats, in the southeastern part of Los Santos. Once inside the main LS Car Meet area, look for the northeastern corner of the warehouse. This is where Hao's Mod Shop is situated. An icon on your map will usually indicate the LS Car Meet, and within it, Hao's specific location will be clearly marked once his services are unlocked.

Unlocking Hao's Special Works

Accessing Hao's Special Works isn't immediate; it requires a specific in-game action to unlock. Shortly after starting the Enhanced version of GTA Online, players will receive a phone call from Hao himself, introducing his Special Works service. Following this call, an icon for Hao's Vehicle will appear on the map. Players must travel to this location and interact with the marker to find Hao's garage. Inside, you'll find a heavily modified Grotti Turismo Classic. Hao will then challenge you to a time trial across the city. If you can beat his target time of 08:10.00, you will successfully unlock Hao's Special Works services, gaining access to his unique upgrades and activities.

Hao's Special Works Services and Customisations

Once unlocked, Hao's Special Works offers a comprehensive suite of upgrades that go far beyond standard Los Santos Customs. The core of his service involves a 'conversion' process, akin to Benny's Original Motor Works. You must first purchase an HSW Performance Upgrade for a compatible vehicle to enable his special customisations. These upgrades not only modify the vehicle's base performance but also unlock a range of exclusive HSW options:

Key HSW Customisations Include:

• Chameleon Paints: Unique, shimmering paint finishes that shift colour depending on the viewing angle.
• HSW Brakes: Enhanced braking systems for improved stopping power.
• HSW Engine Tune: Significant boosts to acceleration and top speed.
• HSW Forged Carbon Body Parts: Lightweight and visually distinct carbon fibre components.
• HSW Modes (Electric Vehicles): Special performance modes like Standard, Race, Sports, and Race Plus for electric vehicles.
• HSW Liveries: Exclusive paint schemes and designs.
• HSW Spoilers: Aerodynamic enhancements for improved handling.
• HSW Suspension: Tuned suspension for better stability and cornering.
• HSW Transmission: Upgraded gearbox for faster gear changes and improved power delivery.
• HSW Turbo Tuning (Stage I, II, and III): Multiple stages of turbocharger upgrades for maximum power output.

HSW Compatible Vehicles

Hao's Special Works is not available for every vehicle in GTA Online. Only specific models can receive the HSW Performance Upgrade and subsequent customisations. The list of compatible vehicles is regularly updated by Rockstar Games. Some of the notable vehicles that can be upgraded by Hao include:

Players can check the latest list of compatible vehicles and their conversion costs by accessing the laptop within Hao's workshop. This laptop also provides direct links to purchase the eligible vehicles.

HSW Races and Time Trials

Beyond customisation, Hao's Special Works introduces exclusive racing content. These are special races and time trials designed specifically for HSW-upgraded vehicles. The performance boost from Hao's upgrades means these races are significantly faster and more challenging than their standard counterparts. Completing all 8 HSW Time Trials can even unlock a special livery as a reward. There are also weekly rotating featured time trials and opportunities on the Test Track to try out Hao's modified vehicles before committing to a purchase.

Other Hao Services

Hao also offers a few other convenient services:

• HSW Specification Service: This allows players to duplicate the exact customisation of any vehicle currently on display at the LS Car Meet. If you see a ride you like, Hao can replicate it for you.
• Hao's Premium Test Ride: Players can test-drive a selection of Hao's modified vehicles, offering a chance to experience their performance firsthand before buying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I get Hao's Special Works on PC?

As of the initial release and for a significant period, Hao's Special Works was exclusive to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. However, with the PC version of the Enhanced & Expanded GTA Online, PC players now have access to Hao's Special Works and all its associated content.

Q2: How much does it cost to get Hao's upgrades?

The cost varies. First, you need to purchase the HSW Performance Upgrade for a compatible vehicle, which can range from around GTA$375,000 to over GTA$1,800,000 depending on the car. After the conversion, each individual HSW customisation (like engine tuning, spoilers, etc.) also carries an in-game cost, typically ranging from GTA$20,000 to GTA$150,000 per upgrade.

Q3: Which is the fastest HSW car?

The definition of 'fastest' can depend on the type of race and track. However, vehicles like the Grotti Itali GTO Stinger TT, Maibatsu MonstroCiti, and Declasse Vigero ZX are frequently cited as being among the top performers after receiving Hao's Special Works upgrades, particularly in terms of acceleration and top speed.

Q4: Do I need a special membership for Hao's services?

To access the LS Car Meet and its services, including Hao's workshop, players generally need to purchase a membership from Mimi, the organiser of the LS Car Meet. This membership provides access to the facility and its various activities.

In conclusion, Hao's Special Works represents a significant advancement in vehicle customisation within GTA Online. By understanding who Hao is, where to find him, and how to unlock his services, players can unlock a new level of performance and style for their favourite cars, making the LS Car Meet an even more essential destination for any serious tuner.